Colorado Springs Statutory Rape Attorneys
Fierce Defense Against Statutory Rape Charges
Facing criminal charges for a sex crime can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. Whether you just made a poor choice or were unaware of the illegality of your actions, securing a strong defense is imperative to avoid the lasting consequences of a sexual assault conviction. If you were charged with statutory rape in Colorado Springs or the surrounding area, our knowledgeable statutory rape defense lawyers can fight to get the criminal penalties against you reduced or dismissed.
With nearly two decades of experience defending the accused, our seasoned attorneys have extensive knowledge of criminal law to aggressively defend your rights. Don’t risk a felony conviction by failing to seek an experienced defense after statutory rape charges. When you partner with The Gasper Law Group, our diligent team can help fortify your case with relevant evidence and build the strongest defense possible to ensure your side of the story is heard.
Understanding Statutory Rape Laws in Colorado
In Colorado, statutory rape is a sex crime that occurs when a person engages in nonconsensual sexual activity with a minor (any person under the age of 17). In other words, it’s illegal for any individual, regardless of age, to engage in sexual relations with a minor. This is true even if the minor considers the sex to be consensual, as minors cannot legally consent to sex under state law.
Statutory rape is an extremely serious crime that can result in harsh penalties. Get a Free Consultation Today with a dedicated defense attorney in Colorado Springs.
(719) 212-2448 or complete our contact form.
Does Colorado Have Romeo & Juliet Laws?
Yes. Like some U.S. states, Colorado honors a close-in-age exemption (commonly known as a “Romeo and Juliet” law) that can apply in certain circumstances. There are two exceptions to statutory rape charges under state law, including:
- The close-in-age exception: Minors under the age of 15 can legally consent to sexual relations with a partner who is no more than 10 years older. Likewise, minors who are 15 or 16 can consent to sex with someone who is no more than 4 years older.
- The marriage exception: Married spouses can legally consent to sexual relations regardless of age.
-
Caryn Adams, Stacey Sadler and the rest of the team at the Gasper law group are an amazing, courteous, compassionate, and very helpful group of talented individuals. I was in a bind and during my consultation I explained my situation and they went above and beyond my expectations. They took care of my case in a very timely manner and made it feel like my traffic ticket was their number one and only priority. I have never been treated with such respect and compassion. I definitely recommend talking to them about any of your legal needs.- Scott R.
-
Gasper Law Group is great to work with. I recently did Estate Planning and they were awesome. Explained everything thoroughly. Emily, Jack, Therese , Holly, and Emily are all very professional. If you need any Legal advice or assistance reach out to the Gasper Law Group. 5 star service.- Ruby D.
-
The Gasper Law Group was fantastic. From the start, they treated me incredibly well and were very open about everything from my situation. They were incredibly attentive to me and my case and made sure I fully understood everything while supporting me in every way they could. Caryn was AMAZING in handling my case. Her knowledge, confidence, and attentiveness were second to none. I would recommend them to anyone for any situation.- Jason E.
-
I dug myself a deep hole and didn’t have much hope or luck with the attorney I used before. I called Gasper law group and Caryn Adams was my attorney that took charge of everything. I couldn’t have asked for anything better the outcome she made possible is everything I wanted. She is great at her job and takes cases seriously … don’t have much hope leave it to Caryn she will change that. Thanks Gasper law group you’re the best!- Mike L.
-
After an absolutely crazy incident that could not have been seen almost anywhere besides a movie. I received some serious charges and was in search of an attorney. They would not only represent me but need to do the right thing because it's the right thing...- Lance F.
-
Christine, Kris, and Ebony are amazing and compassionate. We enjoyed every interaction. Gasper Law firm keeps appropriate communication and not in excess which keeps our cost low. We are so very grateful. Even if an unexpected turn in our guardianship hearing they remained diligent to ensure things were done in a timely manner. Thank you so much! You helped complete our family and we are forever grateful.- Misty M.
-
I’m not one to have an extensive experience with law firms or lawyers and court in general. However, the professionalism, guidance, and candor I’ve received from each person in this law firm have been beyond reproach. Anytime, I mean, anytime, I’ve had a question about my case and the way forward, I was met with a friendly and constructive conversation about my case. There was never a doubt in my mind, that I made the right choice when I selected this law firm to represent me. Caryn and Stacie have been a wonderful blessing to my life and my legal proceedings. If you are looking for a no-BS law firm that has a significant reputation in the Springs area, I absolutely recommend this one. Even though I hope to not have to deal with this again, fingers crossed and every lucky charm, I’d trust this law firm with my representation to handle the hard stuff and give me ease with court proceedings. Thank you all for what you do and have done for me, my family, and my career. Bless you all.
- Steve S. -
Highly professional team of attorneys and paralegal staff who work hard to reach the best outcomes for their clients. A courteous, respectful, and efficient group in all phases and aspects of due diligence, and discovery with effective preparation of cases entrusted to them. The partner representing me, Ms. Caryn Adams was truly impressive in her knowledge of the law, her empathy, and her care for getting the best possible resolution in my favor in pre-trial negotiation. And I have no doubt she and her team would be just as dedicated and efficient in more complex defense situations. I recommend them highly and without reservation in all areas of the law in which they are eminently qualified.- Salah H.
What Are the Penalties for Statutory Rape?
Statutory rape is prosecuted as a felony offense under Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) §18-3-402. The penalties of a statutory rape conviction will vary depending on certain factors, primarily the age differential between the victim and the offender.
Defendants can face various types of felony charges after committing statutory rape. These include:
- Class 4 Felony: If the victim was younger than 15 and the defendant was at least 4 years older at the time of the offense, the offender can face Class 4 felony charges punishable by 2 to 6 years in prison and $2,000 to $500,000 in fines.
- Class 6 Felony: If the victim was 15 or 16 and the defendant was at least 10 years older than the victim at the time of the offense, this is considered a Class 6 felony punishable by 1 year to 18 months in prison and $1,000 to $100,000 in fines.
Statutory Rape & Sex Offender Registration
In Colorado, a conviction for statutory rape results in mandatory sex offender registration. This means that even if you are able to avoid jail time, your information (including your name, address, and other personal details) will be publicly listed on the Colorado Bureau of Investigation’s sex offender registry. Convicted sex offenders must update their registration periodically, and failure to do so can result in additional criminal charges.
Registering as a sex offender can negatively affect every aspect of your life, from employment opportunities to dating and relationships to where you choose to live. If you're facing statutory rape charges in Colorado Springs, it's critical to consult with a statutory rape defense attorney as soon as possible to avoid the lasting consequences of a felony conviction.
Contact a Statutory Rape Defense Lawyer in Colorado Springs
While facing criminal charges can be a frightening experience, you don’t have to fight this battle by yourself. At The Gasper Law Group, our criminal defense lawyers are committed to defending the rights of the accused in Colorado Springs and beyond. From DUI defense to sex crimes involving minors, our attorneys have the determination and diverse skillset to defend your rights in criminal court. Our team has served hundreds of thousands of clients, equipping us with invaluable knowledge and experience to safeguard your freedom and fight for the fair outcome you deserve.
If you were arrested for statutory rape, a strong defense is crucial to avoid lifelong consequences. Call (719) 212-2448 to request a free consultation.