We often think of any crime in Lakewood with sexual assault in its title as a grotesque offense committed by a predator who can't control themselves. While there are circumstances where a person exhibits these behaviors and needs to be held accountable, there are other parts of the law that are often overlooked and misunderstood. Take for example, class 6 felony sexual assault. In this situation, a 27-year-old who has consensual sex with a 16-year-old, can be charged with a felony sex crime. Furthermore, if the adult is less than 10 years older than a consenting person 15 or 16, no crime has been committed. These laws are complex and charges can amplify quickly, requiring representation from a skilled sexual assault attorney.

What is Class 6 Felony Sexual Assault in Golden, CO?

C.R.S. 18-3-402 defines the conduct of Sexual Assault in Colorado. Class 6 felony sexual assault occurs when:

• at the time of the commission of the act,
• the victim is at least 15 years of age but less than 17 years of age,
• and the actor is at least 10 years older than the victim,
• and is not the spouse of the victim

Sexual assault is a lesser felony in Colorado if the items above are present in the case. It is important to note that the alleged victim in this level of sexual assault must also have given consent for the sexual contact. If consent wasn't present, sexual assault / sexual assault on a child applies.

Sentencing for Class 6 Felony Sexual Assault in Jefferson County

Any sexual assault is considered a serious crime in Jefferson County, and throughout Colorado. Therefore, sentencing parameters amplify. Conviction can include up to 18 months in prison, as well as a fine of $1,000 – $100,000. Additionally, sexual assault convictions in Colorado result in sex offender registration, sex offender treatment, and sex offender intensive supervised probation (SOISP). These immobilizing punishments can be especially difficult to navigate, costly, and incredibly detrimental to your reputation.

Expert Jefferson County Criminal Defense

As with any sex crime in Colorado, consulting a reputable defense attorney with decades of experience is critical. Trying to go at these charges alone is foolish and can lead to a far worse outcome. The age of an alleged child victim and the circumstances of the sexual contact have massive implications in these cases. Hiring a skilled sexual assault attorney can help outline a path to the best possible outcome in your unique case. Contact our office for a free consultation where we will carefully analyze your situation and outline next steps.

If you or someone you know is a facing sexual assault charges, be smart. Contact the unparalleled defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.

Photo Credit: Pexels – Leah Kelley