Statutory Rape

Understand the process of sexual consent in Utah

Statutory rape is a general term that covers seven separate laws regarding the ages at which people are legally permitted to have sex with each other in Utah. Lawyer Harold Stone helps you understand your charges and fights for your acquittal.

Making sense of statutory rape charges

There are three general categories of statutory rape in Utah, and your potential penalties for a conviction increase with each level. You may be charged for having sexual activity with:

  • A child under 14
    • First or second-degree felony
  • A person 16 or 17 years old if you are 10 years older or more
    • Third-degree felony
  • A person 14 or 15 years old
    • Misdemeanor or third-degree felony, depending on your age and your accuser's age

You are not alone. Compassionate and skilled legal defense is available from Harold Stone when you are charged with any form of statutory rape.

When you are charged with unlawful sexual conduct

The stigma of being known as a sex offender is frightening, and the issue of the accuser's age is even more unsettling. Even if a sexual encounter occurred, do not plead guilty. There may be mitigating circumstances that Harold Stone can use to reduce or dismiss your charges. If no activity occurred, Mr. Stone fights to prove your innocence.

The ten-year age difference

Statutory rape scenarios in Utah sometimes involve a man over 27 and a 17-year-old girl who appears much older than she is. If you were deliberately misled about your partner's age, Harold Stone presses for a dismissal of your charges.

Accusation of sexual activity with a child

Some allegations of child rape are false, brought on by another adult who may have an agenda against you or by a child who is confused and upset about other issues. Whether or not you had sexual contact, Harold Stone takes your case and does not judge you.

Get skilled defense for your charges of statutory rape

Get serious defense for serious charges, with confidentiality and discretion. Call Salt Lake City criminal attorney Harold Stone in Salt Lake City at 1-801-913-7055, or contact the firm online to schedule your initial consultation.