Lakewood Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer

Proficient Sexual Assault Defense Attorneys in Lakewood, CO

In Colorado, a sexual assault conviction carries life-altering consequences, significantly impacting your freedom and reputation. Understanding your legal rights is essential. Partnering with a skilled Lakewood Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer is critical to building a strong defense. With their expertise, you’ll have an advocate to navigate the complexities of the legal system and protect your rights and reputation. Engaging an attorney early in the process is key to creating an effective defense strategy.

DEFINITIONS RELATED TO SEXUAL OFFENSES – C.R.S. 18-3-401

What Is the Definition of a “Sexual Offense”?

Colorado imposes indeterminate prison sentences for individuals convicted of certain “sexual offenses.” According to C.R.S. 18-1.3-1003(5)(a), sexual offenses include:

• Sexual assault – C.R.S. 18-3-402
• First-degree sexual assault (pre-July 1, 2000)
• Felony unlawful sexual contact – C.R.S. 18-3-404(2)
• Second-degree sexual assault (pre-July 1, 2000)
• Sexual assault on a child – C.R.S. 18-3-405
• Sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust – C.R.S. 18-3-405.3
• Aggravated sexual assault on a client by a psychotherapist – C.R.S. 18-3-405.5
• Enticement of a child – C.R.S. 18-3-305
• Incest – C.R.S. 18-6-301
• Aggravated incest – C.R.S. 18-6-302
• Patronizing a prostituted child – C.R.S. 18-7-406
• Internet luring of a child (Class 4 felony) – C.R.S. 18-3-306(3)
• Internet sexual exploitation of a child – C.R.S. 18-3-405.4
• Unlawful sexual conduct by a police officer (Class 3 felony) – C.R.S. 18-3-405.7
• Attempts, conspiracies, or solicitations to commit any of the above offenses

A “sex offender” is any person convicted of or pleading guilty to any of these offenses.

What Is the Definition of “Sexual Contact”?

To convict someone of unlawful sexual contact, the prosecution must prove that the defendant knowingly subjected another person to nonconsensual sexual contact. C.R.S. 18-3-401(4) defines sexual contact as:

1. Touching intimate parts (directly or through clothing) for sexual arousal or gratification.
2. Ejaculating onto any part of the victim’s body or clothing.
3. Causing bodily fluids (semen, blood, urine, etc.) to contact the victim’s body or clothing for sexual arousal or gratification.

The prosecution must establish that the act was intentional and without the victim’s consent.

What Is the Definition of “Sexual Intrusion” or “Sexual Penetration”?

In sexual assault cases, the prosecution must prove sexual intrusion or sexual penetration.

• Sexual Intrusion: Any slight intrusion (by any object or body part except the mouth, tongue, or penis) into another person’s genital or anal opening for sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse.
• Sexual Penetration: Includes sexual intercourse, cunnilingus, fellatio, anilingus, or anal intercourse. Penetration, no matter how slight, is sufficient.

These are just two elements of sexual assault. The prosecution must prove additional elements to secure a conviction.

How Does Colorado Define “Position of Trust”?

If charged with sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust, disputing the “position of trust” classification may be part of your defense. Colorado defines this broadly as anyone responsible for a child’s welfare, health, education, or supervision. This includes:

• Parents
• Babysitters
• Teachers
• Coaches
• Foster parents
• Mentors
• Doctors
• Nurses
• Counselors

Given this wide scope, consulting a knowledgeable attorney is crucial to challenge the classification and build your defense.

Contact a Lakewood Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer Today

With extensive experience in defending sexual assault cases, our team is prepared to handle your case with dedication and skill. Whether your case goes to trial or resolves beforehand, we conduct thorough investigations to position you for the best possible outcome. Don’t leave your future to chance—reach out to us to work with a trusted Lakewood Sexual Assault Defense Lawyer. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward safeguarding your rights and reputation.