If you are reading this, you are probably worried or downright scared. Maybe you had a sexual encounter that you now worry could lead to criminal charges. Maybe the other person was drunk. Maybe you are not sure they really wanted to have sex. Maybe they were younger than you thought. Whatever the situation, you need to understand Illinois law and what could happen next.
Sex crime charges are extremely serious. If you are facing sex crime charges in 2026, even if you have not been arrested yet, you should talk to a lawyer immediately. Our Chicago sex crimes defense attorney offers free consultations and can help you understand your legal situation. Call us today before you talk to police or anyone else about what happened.
The Definition of Rape in Illinois
Illinois does not actually use the word rape in its criminal code. Instead, the law calls it criminal sexual assault. Under 720 ILCS 5/11-1.20, criminal sexual assault is when someone commits an act of sexual penetration and uses force or threat of force, or when they know the other person can’t consent.