Sexual assault accusations and charges can be especially difficult to confront and navigate. There is often a great deal of “he said, she said” in these situations and sometimes not much evidence to support a claim.
Unfortunately, the presumption of guilt is immediate and negatively impacts a defendant’s life from the onset of any accusation. So how does one go about fighting an allegation of sexual assault? The solution starts with contacting a strategic sexual assault lawyer capable of forming a strong defense on a client’s behalf.
What Leads to a Sexual Assault Charge in Colorado?
Many different accusations and behaviors can result in a charge of sexual assault in Castle Rock. Sometimes, the behaviors more accurately fit the lesser crime of unlawful sexual contact. In reference to C.R.S. 18-3-402, a person commits sexual assault in Douglas County if they:
- perform sexual penetration or intrusion,
- on a person 17 years or older,
- without that person’s consent
These situations often include accusations of rape, forced oral sex, or penetration with some type of foreign object. The issue of consent is a massive factor when it comes to sexual assault in Parker.
We often see circumstances where a man or woman changes their mind due to feelings of guilt or shame and decides to report an incident to law enforcement.
Is Sexual Assault a Felony in Colorado?
Sexual assault is a felony in the state of Colorado. Circumstances where it is a lesser felony are when a 15 or 16 year old consents to someone 10 or more years older than them.
The consequences of felony sex assault are steep and can be felt for the remainder of a defendant’s life. In circumstances like rape or other acts of penetration / intrusion, conviction can result in:
- 4 – 12 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections,
- up to $750,000 in fines,
- sex offender registration,
- mandatory evaluation / treatment
Penalties amplify from there when aggravating factors are present such as the victim’s age, presence of serious injury, or threats / use of a deadly weapon. In addition, a felony sexual assault conviction will result in the requirement to register as a sex offender.
Lawyer for Sex Crimes in Colorado
Too much is on the line in cases of sexual assault to trust someone’s defense to an inexperienced attorney. While some defense lawyers are hesitant to take on sexual assault cases, Sawyer Legal Group doesn’t shy away from the challenge.
Our expert sex crimes attorneys have decades of combined experience fighting for clients throughout Colorado. We prioritize results, as well as strive for the client’s best possible outcome in each unique situation.
Perhaps you’re facing a false accusation in Highlands Ranch or you reasonably didn’t know the victim couldn’t or didn’t consent. Nevertheless, contact our office for free consultation with a strategic sexual assault lawyer. We will carefully analyze your unique circumstances and suggest next steps.
Don’t talk to police about accusations of sexual assault – talk to us. 303-265-1950
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