1st Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct carries stiff penalties. The possibility of Life in Prison without Parole (LWOP) is on the table. Here is a quick breakdown of the sentencing guideline for this charge if convicted:

• As mentioned above 1st Degree CSC is punishable by up to life in prison.
• Mandatory minimum of 25 if the victim was under 13 and the participant over 17.
• LWOP if previously convicted of CSC of a victim under 13.
• Lifetime monitoring and registration into the sex offender registry

2nd Degree CSC is also a felony with serious penalties but it does not include penetration. 15 years is the maximum sentence for 2nd Degree CSC. Lifetime electronic monitoring is mandatory if the victim was under 13 years old and registration into the sex offender registry is mandatory for at least 25 years. 

3rd Degree CSC is a felony and like first-degree CSC includes forced/coerced penetration. In this case, there was no weapon or a concurrent felony and the victim was not under 13 years of age. The maximum sentence is 15 years if the actor has not been convicted of any previous felonies or CSC charges. 

4th Degree CSC is the only misdemeanor charge in this list. Sometimes known as “indecent liberties.” If the accused accomplishes this form of CSM through engaging in sexual conduct with a person 13 to 16 years of age and the aggressor is 5 years older than the victim then it is considered 4th degree CSC. 

It can also include sexual conduct through force or coercion and if the person was under your authority or influence (student or mental health client). 

Punishments include the possible registration into the sex offender registry for life if the victim was under 13, if over 13 but under 18 then a 25-year registration is mandatory, and if the victim was over 18 then a 15-year sentence is mandatory. 

You could also face up to 2 years of prison and a fine of $500.