Sexual Assault Defense Attorney in Denver, CO
Being wrongfully accused of a crime as serious as sexual assault can cause catastrophic harm to your reputation, earning potential, and education. Despite such a wide range of offenses falling under the umbrella of sexual offenses, there is no such thing as a minor sex crime charge. As such, anyone who is convicted can expect to face harsh penalties. Following a sex crime conviction — or even probation — there’s a good chance you’ll end up on the sex offender registration list for life.
In these cases, finding a criminal defense attorney with a proven track record of overturning sexual assault charges is essential. G Law Defense comprises a team of experienced attorneys with the expertise to compile a strong defense strategy and prove your innocence beyond a reasonable doubt.
How Does Colorado Law Define Sexual Assault?
In Colorado, the following circumstances can bring about a charge of sexual assault:
- A victim submits for reasons determined to be against their will
- The accused is aware the victim is incapable of understanding the nature of the conduct
- The accused knows the victim submits due to a mistake such as thinking the accused was their spouse
- The victim is under 15, and the accused is more than four years older and not their spouse
- The victim is over 15 but under 17, and the accused is more than 10 years older
- The accused uses a position of trust or authority to coerce someone detained in an institution (except for a lawful search)
- The accused falsely uses medical service as a guise for sexual assault in a manner that’s not in keeping with medical best practices.
- The victim is helpless and hasn’t consented
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Sex Offense Charges
A misdemeanor is a lesser criminal charge punishable by fines or short-term imprisonment in a local jail. Felonies are the most serious crimes and are usually punishable by at least one year in prison. In Colorado, sexual misdemeanors are prosecuted at the highest available level. Generally speaking, public indecency and unlawful sexual conduct are charged as misdemeanors, but the latter can be raised to a felony under aggravating circumstances. The other sex crimes outlined below are considered felonies.
What Types of Sexual Crimes Fall Under Sexual Assault?
Below is a list of offenses punishable as sexual assaults under Colorado law.
Sexual Assault/Rape
Sexual assault or rape is a form of sexual violence in which a forced or non-consensual act of penetration of any part of a victim’s body occurs. If a person is intoxicated or unconscious, they can’t give consent, and rape is automatically assumed.
Unlawful Sexual Contact
Unlawful sexual contact is knowingly touching an unconsenting individual’s intimate parts for arousal, gratification, or abuse. Likewise, suppose (even without physical contact) someone induces or coerces a victim under 18 to engage in sexual contact or expose themselves for the accused’s sexual gratification. In that case, this is also unlawful sexual contact.
Sexual Crimes Against Children
Individuals who commit sexual offenses against children are deemed as violent predators. At G Law Defense, we specialize in legal representation for all sexual crimes. If you’ve been accused of this crime, you should consult a sexual assault lawyer at your earliest convenience.
Enticement of a Child
This charge is brought about if someone attempts to invite or persuades an individual under age 15 to enter a room, building, vehicle, or secluded location to commit sexual assault or unlawful sexual contact.
Internet Luring of a Child
This offense involves communicating in a sexual manner with a minor under 15 years old and more than four years younger than the accused. This type of internet exploitation could involve sending pornographic pictures, describing sexual acts, or attempting to arrange a sexual meetup with the minor.
Sexual Exploitation of a Child
Like regular exploitation, sexual exploitation of a child is defined as involving a child in sexual acts in return for commercial gain.
Sexual Assault on a Child
Sexual assault on a child is a physically violent crime that doesn’t involve penetration or intrusion. It’s defined as the fondling of a child under age 15 but over age four or inciting a child in this age range to fondle the accused.
No physical evidence is required in the case of sexual offenses against children. Anyone falsely accused of these crimes must hire experienced experts like the attorneys here at GLaw Defense.
What Are the Criminal Charges and Penalties for Sexual Assault?
Just as there is a range of sex crimes, there is also a wide range of charges outlined below.
Sex Assault/Rape Sentencing and Penalties
Common sexual assault is a Class 4 felony with a typical prison sentence of between two and six years. However, if violence, threats of physical violence, or intoxicants are involved, the crime is deemed a Class 3 felony. If more than one individual commits the crime, the victim suffers a serious injury, or the accused is armed with a deadly weapon, it’s considered a Class 2 felony.
Unlawful Sexual Contact Sentencing and Penalties
Unlawful sexual contact is a class one misdemeanor of extraordinary risk and usually carries a jail term of up to 24 months or a fine of up to $5,000. However, if force, threat, or intimidation take place, unlawful sexual contact becomes a Class 4 felony.
Why Hire G Law Defense Criminal Defense Lawyers?
Here’s why you should hire the premier Denver sex crimes defense attorneys as your legal defense against false accusations of a felony or misdemeanor sexual assault:
- Our sexual assault attorneys are proud advocates of each client and work tirelessly to offer the best representation available in Denver
- We have more than 20 years of experience in the field
- Our team relentlessly researches and explores every available defense option to deliver seamless, expert representation
- We provide free, confidential consultations