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.
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.
Set up an initial consultation with our office today. Discuss your case with our Colorado Springs Lawyers at
(719) 212-2448 or complete our contact form.
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.
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.
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