Criminal sexual conduct in Michigan: the four degrees
Last checked: 15 October 2026
Michigan law divides criminal sexual conduct into four degrees. First and third degree involve sexual penetration, and second and fourth degree involve sexual contact, each with circumstances set out in the statute. First degree is punishable by up to life in prison, second and third degree by up to 15 years, and fourth degree is a misdemeanor.
The four degrees
| Degree | Law | What the statute covers | Maximum penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| First degree | MCL 750.520b | Sexual penetration, with one of the circumstances listed in the statute, such as the other person being under 13 | Felony: imprisonment for life or any term of years. At least 25 years if the offender is 17 or older and the victim is under 13 |
| Second degree | MCL 750.520c | Sexual contact, with one of the circumstances listed in the statute | Felony: up to 15 years |
| Third degree | MCL 750.520d | Sexual penetration, with one of the circumstances listed in the statute | Felony: up to 15 years |
| Fourth degree | MCL 750.520e | Sexual contact, with one of the circumstances listed in the statute | Misdemeanor: up to 2 years, or a fine of up to $500 |
The full list of circumstances for each degree is in the statute. Courts can also order lifetime electronic monitoring in some first and second degree cases.
Deadlines for charges and civil claims
- First degree charges can be filed at any time (MCL 767.24).
- For offences from 2 April 2025, second and third degree charges can be filed within 15 years or by the alleged victim's 42nd birthday, whichever is later.
- A civil claim for damages does not need a criminal case or conviction (MCL 600.5805(6)).
Sources
- MCL 750.520b: legislature.mi.gov
- MCL 750.520c: legislature.mi.gov
- MCL 750.520d: legislature.mi.gov
- MCL 750.520e: legislature.mi.gov
- MCL 767.24: legislature.mi.gov
- MCL 600.5805: legislature.mi.gov