Sex assault allegations in Arapahoe County often involve claims of non-consensual acts of intrusion or penetration. Whether an alleged victim says force was used or they weren't able to give consent, defendants face an uphill battle at the onset of accusations. In addition to harsh, long-lasting criminal penalties, sexual assault can doom your career and reputation. It is critical that anyone facing an allegation of rape exercise their right to remain silent and consult an experienced sex assault attorney as soon as possible. Below we discuss sexual assault in greater detail and how we can help those navigating this serious charge.

Arapahoe County Sexual Assault Law

Arapahoe County's sexual assault law prohibits acts of unwanted sexual penetration. CRS 18-3-402 defines sexual assault throughout Colorado's many counties. You commit sexual assault in Aurora, Centennial, or Littleton if you:

• perform an act of vaginal intercourse, anal sex, oral sex, fingering, or penetration with a foreign object,
• upon someone against their will,
• or if they're intoxicated, high, mentally debilitated, or physically helpless

It is important to note that a defendant being too drunk or high to notice the other person couldn't or didn't consent isn't a defense. Alcohol or controlled substances and sex are an especially risky combination. Date rape allegations aren't uncommon and can unfortunately alter the trajectory of an innocent person's life drastically.

Penalties for Sex Assault in Arapahoe County

Every sex assault case is different. As a result, penalties aren't always the same. Sexual assault is at minimum a class 4 felony and an extraordinary risk crime. It can also involve indeterminate sentencing, meaning a set minimum to incarceration and probation, but no max. When no force was used and injury didn't occur, a conviction can lead to:

• 2 – 8 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections,
• up to $500K in fines,
• sex offender registration,
• evaluation / treatment,
• sex offender intensive supervised probation

In cases where threats, force, or a deadly weapon were involved, the prison sentence can grow substantially. Outside of incarceration, registered sex offenders face many isolating struggles. Issues with employment and housing are common, alongside general distrust and fear from some members of the community.

Aurora Sex Assault Attorney

Accusations of rape in Colorado can be overwhelming. However, just because you're under investigation or you've been charged doesn't mean you're guilty. We have decades of combined experience representing clients facing sexual assault charges and our results stand alone. Perhaps the relations didn't involve intrusion or penetration, the sex was consensual, or the alleged victim is making claims based on regret. That said, contact our office for a free, confidential consultation with one of our skilled defense attorneys. We will carefully analyze your unique case, as well as recommend next steps in your defense. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for those facing sexual assault charges throughout Colorado.

So, if you or someone you know is facing a sex assault allegation, proceed carefully. Connect with the determined criminal defense lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-830-0880. Don't talk to the police – talk to us.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio