Charged with Solicitation to Meet a Child in Chicago? Andrew M. Weisberg Can Defend Your Rights

Solicitation to meet a child is a serious criminal offense in Illinois, carrying severe penalties, including long-term imprisonment, mandatory sex offender registration, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing charges of solicitation to meet a child in Chicago, it is crucial to have an experienced and aggressive defense attorney like Andrew M. Weisberg on your side to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.

Understanding Solicitation to Meet a Child in Illinois

Under Illinois law, specifically 720 ILCS 5/11-6.6, solicitation to meet a child occurs when an adult uses any means of communication, including the internet, social media, or other electronic devices, to solicit a minor (under 17 years of age) to meet for the purpose of engaging in any sexual conduct or related criminal acts. The law is designed to protect minors from sexual predators and is enforced aggressively by law enforcement and prosecutors.

Key elements of this crime include:

• Communication with a Minor: The charge applies when an adult communicates with a minor or someone believed to be a minor with the intent to meet them for sexual purposes.
• Intent to Engage in Sexual Conduct: The prosecution must prove that the communication was made with the intent to engage in sexual conduct or other related criminal acts with the minor.
• Actual or Attempted Meeting: The offense can be charged even if the meeting never occurred; the intent and actions taken toward arranging the meeting are sufficient for prosecution.

Due to the involvement of a minor and the use of communication technology, solicitation to meet a child is treated as a serious felony with harsh penalties designed to deter and punish those who attempt to exploit vulnerable individuals.

Penalties for Solicitation to Meet a Child in Chicago

The penalties for solicitation to meet a child in Illinois are severe and reflect the seriousness of the offense:

• Class 4 Felony: Solicitation to meet a child is generally charged as a Class 4 felony, which carries a potential prison sentence of 1 to 3 years and fines of up to $25,000.
• Class 3 Felony: If the solicitation involves intent to engage in a sexual act or if the defendant has a prior conviction for a sex crime, the charge can be elevated to a Class 3 felony, with penalties including 2 to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000.
• Mandatory Sex Offender Registration: A conviction for solicitation to meet a child requires mandatory registration as a sex offender, which can severely impact your personal and professional life for many years, if not permanently.
• Restitution: The court may order you to pay restitution to the victim or their family for any damages or losses resulting from the offense.
• Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction will result in a permanent criminal record, affecting your ability to secure employment, housing, and other opportunities in the future.

Given these penalties, it is essential to have a skilled and experienced defense attorney who can challenge the prosecution’s case and work to protect your future.

Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Defense Attorney?

Andrew M. Weisberg is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with extensive experience handling serious sex crime cases, including charges related to solicitation to meet a child. His background as a former Cook County prosecutor gives him unique insights into how these cases are built and prosecuted, allowing him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and develop a robust defense on your behalf.

When you choose Andrew as your defense attorney, you benefit from:

• Comprehensive Legal Knowledge: Andrew’s thorough understanding of Illinois sex crime laws ensures that your case will be handled with the utmost competence and care.
• Aggressive Defense Strategies: Andrew is known for his relentless and proactive defense tactics, exploring every possible angle to protect your rights.
• Personalized Attention: Andrew provides each client with individualized attention, ensuring that your specific circumstances and needs are fully addressed.

Defending Against Charges of Solicitation to Meet a Child in Chicago

Successfully defending against charges of solicitation to meet a child requires a strategic and comprehensive approach. Andrew M. Weisberg will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case, scrutinizing every piece of evidence and questioning the validity of the prosecution’s claims. Some potential defense strategies may include:

• Lack of Intent: The prosecution must prove that you intended to meet the minor for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct. If there is doubt about your intent, this could be a significant defense.
• Entrapment: Many solicitation charges result from sting operations where law enforcement officers pose as minors. If you were induced by law enforcement to commit the alleged offense, Andrew may argue that you were entrapped, which could lead to a reduction or dismissal of the charges.
• Mistaken Identity: If you were wrongly identified as the person responsible for the communication, Andrew will work to uncover evidence that points to your innocence.
• Violation of Constitutional Rights: If your rights were violated during the investigation, arrest, or interrogation—such as through unlawful search, seizure, or coercion—Andrew may be able to have key evidence suppressed, weakening the prosecution’s case.

Andrew will work tirelessly to build a strong defense, aiming to reduce the charges, negotiate a favorable plea, or secure an acquittal.

The Importance of Early Legal Intervention

If you have been charged with solicitation to meet a child, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Early intervention by a skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Andrew M. Weisberg will take immediate action to protect your rights, gather evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.

Andrew M. Weisberg: Committed to Your Defense

Facing charges of solicitation to meet a child can be overwhelming and stressful. Andrew M. Weisberg is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation throughout the entire process. He will keep you informed at every stage, answer all your questions, and fight tirelessly to protect your rights and future.

Contact the Law Offices of Andrew M. Weisberg Today

If you have been arrested or charged with solicitation to meet a child in Chicago, don’t delay in seeking legal representation. Andrew M. Weisberg is available 24/7 to discuss your case and provide the immediate assistance you need.

Contact Andrew today for a free, confidential consultation:

• Phone: Call (773) 908-9811 anytime, day or night.
• Online: Fill out the Case Review form on our website, and we will get back to you promptly.

Remember, the sooner you have an experienced attorney on your side, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Let Andrew M. Weisberg put his expertise to work for you.