3rd degree CSC is punishable by up to how many years?

• A. 5 years
• B. 20 years
• C. 30 years
• D. 10 years

Answer: (D)

Third-degree CSC is placed in a middle tier in terms of penalties, reflecting that the offense is serious but not the most severe level. In many jurisdictions, the base maximum for third-degree offenses is 10 years in prison. That’s why 10 years is the correct upper limit you’d expect for this degree.

Five years would be too lenient for a third-degree offense, while 20 or 30 years are typically associated with higher degrees or aggravated circumstances (or multiple offenses) rather than the standard third-degree charge. Understanding the degree structure helps explain why the 10-year cap fits this level of offense.