You been charged with sexual assault, now what?
If you have been charged with a sex crime in Colorado, your head is likely spinning with questions. Am I going to go to jail? Will I have to register as a sex offender? Will I lose my job? How much is this going to cost? At Pav Law, we understand how stressful this situation must be for you, and we’re here to help. Keep reading to learn what to expect if you are charged with sexual assault in Colorado.
Sexual assault is a serious charge with potentially life-altering consequences. Most sexual assault offenses are charged as felonies. All felony sexual assault convictions require lifetime sex offender registration, in addition to a minimum of 2 years to life in prison and significant fines. You must secure qualified representation immediately if you are charged with sexual assault of any kind. Let Andrew Brown, and Pav Law assist you during this stressful time, while we fight hard for the best possible outcome in your case.
What defines sexual assault in Colorado?
Sexual assault is classified as a “sexual offense”, and is a serious crime in Colorado. These charges can be life-altering, carrying severe legal, social, and personal consequences. At Pav Law, we understand the gravity of these accusations and are committed to providing a robust defense for those facing such allegations.
Sexual Assault is a serious crime in Colorado, which can come with serious consequences including possible jail time. The term “sexual offense” includes various forms of non-consensual sexual contact or behavior, ranging from indecent exposure to forcible rape.
Colorado defines Sexual Assault C.R.S. 18-3-402 as non-consensual sexual penetration or intrusion. If penetration does not occur, the charge should be filed as a lesser sexual offense, such as Unlawful Sexual Contact C.R.S. 18-3-404. If an individual is alleged to have tried to penetrate an unwilling partner, but was not successful, they could still be charged with Attempted Sexual Assault. Also, in situations involving children under 15, sexual assault charges can be filed, even if no force is involved (also known as statutory rape).
How Bad is My Charge?
There are different levels of felony charges depending on the details and severity of the alleged crime. All sex assaults are charged as felonies in Colorado, from F4 at the lowest up to F2 with a deadly weapon modifier, each carrying a different minimum penalty.
Class 4 Felony Sexual Assault
Defined as sexual assault without force or injury
Criminal penalty: 2 - 8 years in DOC
Fines up to $500,000
Class 3 Felony Sexual Assault
Defined as sexual assault by force or drugging or serious threats
Criminal penalty: 4 - 16 years in DOC
Fines up to $750,000.
Criminal penalty: 4 - 16 years in DOC
Fines up to $750,000.
Class 2 Felony Sexual Assault
Defined as sexual assault by gang rape or that causes serious bodily injury
Criminal penalty: 8 - 24 years in DOC
Fines up to $1,00,000.
Criminal penalty: 8 - 24 years in DOC
Fines up to $1,00,000.
Class 2 Felony Sexual Assault with a Deadly Weapon
Class 2 Felony sex assault with the addition of a deadly weapon
Criminal penalty: 16 years - life in DOC
Fines up to $1,00,000
Criminal penalty: 16 years - life in DOC
Fines up to $1,00,000
Penalties for sexual assault conviction
The penalties for sexual assault charges in Colorado depend on the severity of the charge and prior criminal history. These are all potential penalties if you are found guilty of sexual assault in Colorado.
Prison Time
Depending on the severity of the offense, sentences can range from several years to life in prison.
Probation
Some offenders may face lengthy probation periods with strict conditions. Probation lengths can vary but generally range from 10 years to life.
Sex Offender Registration
Convicted individuals are required to register as sex offenders, impacting their personal and professional lives.
Hefty Fines
Beyond the cost of hiring an attorney, convictions can result in substantial fines. Victims may also be entitled to damages if your are found guilty.
Mandatory Counseling
Attendance at counseling or treatment programs is often mandated. These programs are the financial responsibility of the guilty party. Failure to complete your counseling can have additional consequences.
Personal Repercussions
Other consequences include permanent flag on your background check, you will lose your right to own firearms, and if you are an undocumented immigrant, you could be deported.
- Prison Time: Depending on the severity of the offense, sentences can range from several years to life in prison.
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Hefty Fines: Beyond the cost of hiring an attorney, convictions can result in substantial fines. Victims may also be entitled to damages if your are found guilty.
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Sex Offender Registration: Convicted individuals are required to register as sex offenders, impacting their personal and professional lives.
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Probation: Some offenders may face lengthy probation periods with strict conditions. Probation lengths can vary but generally range from 10 years to life.
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Mandatory Counseling: Attendance at counseling or treatment programs is often mandated. These programs are the financial responsibility of the guilty party. Failure to complete your counseling can have additional consequences.
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Personal Repercussions: Other consequences of a sex assault conviction include a permanent flag on your background check, you will lose your right to own firearms, and if you are an undocumented immigrant, you could be deported.
What to Expect If You Are Facing Sex Assault Charges
The Legal Process
Facing sexual assault charges involves a complex legal process:
- Investigation: Law enforcement conducts a thorough investigation, including collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses. If you believe you are being investigated for sexual assault, it is a good idea to secure an attorney. A lawyer will speak to the police on your behalf, as well as communicate any messages they have for you.
- Arrest: If there is probable cause, you may be arrested and charged with sexual assault. If you have hired a lawyer, they will
- Arraignment: You will appear in court to hear the charges against you and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial: During this phase, your attorney will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and possibly negotiate plea deals.
- Trial: If your case goes to trial, both sides will present their evidence and arguments. The jury will then deliberate and render a verdict.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on the severity of the crime and other factors.
Being accused of sexual assault can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. Here’s what you should expect and how Pav Law can assist you:
- Immediate Legal Representation: Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. The sooner we can start working on your case, the better.
- Investigation and Evidence Gathering: We will conduct our own investigation, gather evidence, and identify witnesses to build a strong defense.
- Support and Guidance: Our team will guide you through the legal process, providing support and answering your questions every step of the way.
- Defense Strategy: We will develop a tailored defense strategy based on the specifics of your case, aiming for the best possible outcome.
- Court Appearances: We will represent you in all court appearances, ensuring your rights are protected and your voice is heard.
Have you been accused of sexual assault in Colorado? Pav Law can help.
No one wants to be charged with sexual assault, especially if the charges are false or unfairly exaggerated, but we can help you make the best of a bad situation. Pav Law is dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for its clients. Trust us to put in the time and effort your case deserves. We know the law, we’re hungry for the truth, and ready to fight for your freedom. We will walk you through the process so that you know what you can expect. We can also promise that you will be treated with empathy and respect throughout our working relationship.
If you are in Colorado and are being charged with sexual assault, call our offices today! The longer you wait to secure representation, the less time your attorney has to build your case. Do not let the system dictate your future. Call Pav Law today, and get your life back on track.
Why is Andrew Brown the best defense lawyer for sexual assault charges?
Andrew Brown is a uniquely experienced sex assault defense attorney. He knows, first-hand, how devastating it is to be falsely accused of sexual assault. Read his story, and learn why there is no one you’d rather have fighting for you against false accusations of sexual assault than Andrew Brown, and Pav Law. Call us today. (719)888-7888 or fill out our contact form.