Salt Lake City Defense Attorneys - Statutory Rape Charges
If you have had sex with a minor, you can be charged with statutory rape. In the state of Utah, sex with anyone under the age of 18 is a crime, regardless of whether or not it was consensual.
Conviction for a sex crime can carry serious consequences far beyond the criminal penalties you may face. In addition to jail time, you can be forced to register as a sex offender. A conviction for a sex crime can cost you your job, hurt your future employment opportunities, and even affect your right to choose where you live or spend your time.
If you have been charged with statutory rape or another sex crime, protect your rights by contacting a sex crimes defense attorney at The Law Office of Harold W. Stone, III. We have handled dozens of sex crimes charges and can provide a vigorous defense on your behalf. To contact a criminal defense attorney at our firm, call 801-352-9331, or contact us by e-mail.
Criminal Penalties for Statutory Rape
The severity of penalties you may face will depend on many facts, including the age of the alleged victim. The age of the victim is placed into one of three categories: Under 14, 14 to 15, and 16 to 17. The younger the minor, the more significant the penalties you will face.
If you are accused of having sex with a minor, there are two types of charges you may face:
- Rape of a child: Sex with a minor under 14. This is a first degree felony that carries a mandatory sentence of 25 years to life.
- Unlawful sex with a minor: Sex with a minor 14 to 17. The penalties depend on the age of the child and the offender. If you are seven years older than the victim and the victim is 16 or 17, it is a class B misdemeanor (up to six months in jail). If you are more than 7 years older or the victim is 15 or 16, you face the possibility of significant jail time.
If you believe you may be the target of investigation or have been arrested, contact our law office immediately. You have no obligation to speak with the police and should speak with an attorney before you say anything that could be taken out of context or otherwise jeopardize your defense.
Contact Us
If you have been accused of sexual conduct with a minor, sexual assault, unlawful sexual intercourse or another sex related offense, contact The Law Office of Harold W. Stone, III in Midvale and St. George, Utah. To schedule a free consultation with a criminal defense lawyer at our firm, call 801-352-9331, or contact us by e-mail.
