The crime of unlawful sexual contact occurs in Denver whenever unwanted touching of someone's private parts occurs. This conduct is often referred to as groping or fondling. Some other states associate this behavior with the crime of sexual battery. This is a less serious sex crime than sexual assault, but still comes with particularly detrimental consequences. Jail time, substantial fines, and sex offender registration are all possible ramifications of a conviction in Colorado. To protect yourself and your future, it is critical to consult an experienced unlawful sexual contact lawyer if you're facing allegations or charges.

What is Unlawful Sexual Contact in Denver?

Unlawful Sexual Contact C.R.S. 18-3-404 defines the conduct associated with this Colorado sex crime. Sexual contact is unlawful when someone:

• without consent, knowingly touches another person's intimate parts
• knowingly causes another person (without consent) to touch their intimate parts
• for their own sexual gratification, entices a minor under 18 to expose his / her intimate parts or engage in intercourse with another person

Sexual contact itself refers to touching another's intimate parts or having them touch your intimate parts. Additionally, touching the clothing covering private parts constitutes sexual contact if it is done for the purpose of sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse. If unwanted intrusion or penetration occur, the conduct becomes sexual assault in Colorado.

Consequences for Unlawful Sexual Contact Conviction

Conviction of unlawful sexual conduct in Colorado is typically a class 1 misdemeanor. Potential sentencing parameters are:

• up to 12 months in county jail
• a fine of $1,000
• sex offender registration

Consequences are especially amplified if a victim is pressured into sexual contact by force, intimidation, threat, or drugging. Felony punishments in these cases apply and can include 2 – 8 years in prison and a fine of $2,000 – $500,000. In either case, sex offender registration is debilitating for convicted persons and those close to them. The public online registry includes an offender's name, address, DOB, current photo, physical description, crime info, and owned / operated vehicles.

Denver Unlawful Sexual Contact Lawyer

The potential ramifications of a sex crime conviction in Colorado are too severe to navigate alone. An experienced defense attorney that understands the intricacies of sex offenses can help each and every step of the way. Too often, innocent people face unlawful sexual contact charges due to misunderstood intentions. Touching could have been entirely accidental or an alleged victim could have ulterior motives of revenge. Nonetheless, if police or an investigator contact you, don't give them any statements. Instead, call Denver's highest rated sex crime attorneys to represent you.

If you or someone you know is facing unlawful sexual contact charges, be smart. Contact the skilled criminal defense lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.

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