Boulder Statutory Rape Defense Lawyer

Facing rape charges in Colorado requires the immediate attention of an experienced criminal defense attorney.

We cannot overstate the severity of these accusations, as a conviction can result in lengthy prison sentences, mandatory sex offender registration, and irreparable damage to your personal and professional life.

When your freedom and future are on the line, you need a skilled legal advocate who understands Colorado’s sexual assault laws and has successful outcomes in defending clients against statutory rape allegations.

Your future depends on your defense; contact Dawson Law today.

Statutory Rape Charges in Boulder, CO

Under Colorado law, statutory rape falls under the broader category of sexual assault offenses, under C.R.S. § 18-3-402, and is prosecuted as such. It is defined as engaging in sexual penetration with an individual below the age of consent, which is 17 years old—even if the minor willingly participates in or initiates the sexual activity.

However, there are a few exceptions where sexual activity with an underage person is legal in Colorado:

1. If the minor is 15 or 16 years old, and their partner is less than 10 years older.
2. If the minor is under 15 years old, and their partner is less than 4 years older.
3. If the individuals involved are married.

Statutory rape is a felony offense in Colorado, and it carries the requirement of sex offender registration in addition to potential prison sentences and substantial fines. The severity of the punishment depends on the age of the victim and the age difference between the victim and the defendant.

Penalties for a Statutory Rape Conviction

Colorado’s statutory rape laws and penalties are as follows:

• If the victim is younger than 15, and the defendant is at least 5 years older than the victim, it is considered a Class 4 felony, punishable by 2 to 6 years in prison and/or a fine ranging from $2,000 to $500,000.
• If the victim is 15 or 16 years old, and the defendant is at least 10 years older than the victim, it is considered a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 year to 18 months in prison and/or a fine ranging from $1,000 to $100,000.

In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a plea bargain to reduce or dismiss the charges.

Colorado Sex Offender Lifetime Supervision Act

In 1998, the General Assembly passed the Sex Offender Lifetime Supervision Act, which requires lifetime supervision for most class 2, 3, and 4 felony sex offenses. There are a number of sentencing options available to the Court under the Act:

• Probation for a minimum of 10 years to a maximum of life for a class 4 felony, and a minimum of 20 years and a maximum of life for a class 2 or 3 felony. Intensive supervision probation (ISP) is required for all lifetime probationers until further order of the court.
• Department of Corrections for at least the minimum of the presumptive range of sentencing to a maximum of life.

The Colorado Department of Corrections is responsible for providing evaluation and sex offense-specific treatment to offenders who have been sentenced to the DOC and those who are on parole. Offenders in the Sex Offender Treatment and Monitoring Program (SOTMP) work toward meeting the Lifetime Supervision treatment progress criteria that correspond with their risk for sexual recidivism in order to meet parole board release criteria. The SOTMP provides treatment for an average of 450 offenders at a time.

Sex Offender Registry Requirements

Sex offenders are advised by the court at sentencing if they are required to register. If required to register, sex offenders must register with the law enforcement agency in the jurisdiction in which they live. In addition, if a registrant moves away from one jurisdiction, they are required by law to register at the new address.

Sex offender registration does not end automatically. A non-SVP offender may file a petition to terminate registration requirements beginning five, ten, or twenty years after the end of supervision, depending upon the severity of the original crime of conviction. However, an SVP may never petition off the registry and must comply with registration requirements for the remainder of their life. Juveniles may petition the court to terminate registration requirements simultaneously with the conclusion of their supervision.

Building a Defense Against Rape Charges in Boulder

When the police accuse you of rape in Boulder, think about forming a proactive, thorough defense strategy to fight the allegations.

The Dawson Law Office investigates the allegations against you, examines every piece of evidence, and interviews witnesses to identify inconsistencies and weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

This process may involve:

• Analyzing physical evidence, such as DNA samples and medical reports, to determine if it supports or contradicts the accuser’s claims.
• Reviewing electronic communications, social media posts, and other digital evidence that may shed light on the nature of the relationship between the accused and the accuser.
• Challenging the accuser’s credibility by exposing inconsistencies in their testimony or highlighting any potential motives for making false allegations.
• Questioning the reliability of forensic evidence and the methods used to collect and analyze it.

In addition to challenging the prosecution’s case, your criminal defense lawyer will explore all legal defenses available under the law.

Why the Right Criminal Defense Attorney Matters

The stakes are too high when facing rape charges in Boulder to rely on an attorney who may not have the time or resources to devote to your case or someone inexperienced in defending these specialized types of cases.

Instead, you need a dedicated sexual assault defense lawyer who gives you personalized attention, in-depth knowledge of Colorado’s laws, and the experience to negotiate effectively with prosecutors and argue persuasively in court.

When choosing a criminal defense attorney, look for:

• Successful outcomes in handling sexual assault cases similar to yours.
• A commitment to protecting your rights and reputation throughout the legal process.
• A compassionate, non-judgmental team that recognizes the sensitive nature of these charges and the impact they can have on your life.

Dawson Law knows the immense pressure and uncertainty you’re facing, and we’re here to provide the skilled, aggressive defense you need during this challenging time.

“Ryan is amazing! I have never had such a trusted ally in the law. He answered all my questions and was on the ball. He is a professional in his craft and I highly recommend him for all your legal needs. Thanks Ryan!!”

— Google Review

Can You Take My Case?

Why Choose Dawson Law?

Our Boulder sexual assault defense team has successfully defended clients against even the most serious rape charges.

We take a strategic, proactive approach to every case and also understand that facing these criminal charges is an intensely personal and emotional experience.

Get the Help You Need Today

If the Boulder Police have accused you of rape, seek experienced legal representation today.

The sooner you involve the Dawson Law Office, the better your chances of building a solid defense and minimizing the potential consequences of rape charges.

Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our knowledgeable Boulder sexual assault defense lawyers.

We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and help you through this tough time with the expertise and compassion you deserve.

The Dawson Law Office is nearby to work your case and fight for your rights every step of the way.

Can You Take My Case?