Being accused of statutory rape is a terrifying experience for dating to face. This provision allows for a slightly reduced charge in cases where the age gap between parties is relatively close and the sexual activity was consensual. Remember, an accusation is not a conviction, and laws deserve a solid read more defense. The compassionate Colorado criminal defense attorneys at The Moorhead Law Group are here to help guide you through this challenging time and fight for your future.

This exemption acknowledges the complexities around the age of consent, providing some legal leniency for young couples. People under 17 cannot legally consent to sexual activity, and engaging in sex with someone under 17 is considered statutory rape under Colorado dating statutes, CRS These consent laws are designed to protect minors from exploitation and abuse. Colorado established the Romeo and Juliet law to avoid unfairly criminalizing consensual sexual activity between young people who are close in age.

Lawmakers recognize that many teenagers experiment sexually before turning 17, and many of these situations with their peers are very different from an adult exploiting a minor. Without a close-in-age exemption, a high school senior dating a high school junior could face felony charges for statutory rape, even if the activity was consensual. The Romeo and Juliet law provides flexibility in these cases.

However, these close-in-age best dating coaches do not apply if the older party is in a position of trust over the younger party, such as a teacher, coach, or church leader.

The state will still prosecute any sexual activity in those situations as sexual assault. Also, the Romeo and Juliet law does not make the activity legal; it just reduces the severity of criminal charges the state might bring.

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Sexual assault charges may still apply, but the prosecution will reduce them from a Class 4 felony to a Class 1 misdemeanor. It also does not fully decriminalize the activity. If no close-in-age exemption applies, sexual activity with someone under 17 is a class 4 felony.

Penalties include:. If the Romeo and Juliet law in Colorado applies, it reduces the charge to a class 1 misdemeanor for statutory rape. Penalties for a class 1 misdemeanor include:.

So, while the Romeo and Juliet law reduces the severity of dating charges, the consequences can still be dire. A conviction will still result laws a criminal record and potentially jail time. There are a few possible defenses to Colorado statutory rape charges, but they are very limited, especially in cases involving sexual penetration. Some include:. Notably, mistaken age is not a defense. Consent is also not a defense since the dating nails century 18th old victims are not legally old enough to consent.

Even if the underage person was a willing participant, that does not make the sexual activity legal under Colorado law. This includes all forms of sexual activity, such as vaginal, oral, and anal sex. Source Romeo and Juliet exceptions often provide the best defense if the situation fits those parameters.

But in many statutory rape cases, the only viable defense is attacking the credibility of the allegations themselves by exposing inconsistencies, lack laws evidence, or motivations to lie. Article source requires the skill of an experienced criminal defense attorney to give the defendant the most likely chance of avoiding conviction and life-changing penalties.

Statutory rape laws typically start with a report to law enforcement. This could come from the alleged victim, their parents, mandated reporters like teachers or doctors, or anyone else who suspects illegal sexual activity with a minor.

Police will then investigate the allegations. This may involve interviewing the alleged victim, witnesses, and the suspect, collecting physical evidence, and reviewing electronic communications. If they believe there is probable cause, they will submit the case to the colorado attorney. If they file charges, the defendant will be arrested and have an initial appearance in court, where the charges are presented and the judge sets bail.

From there, the case will proceed through the court process. There will be an arraignment where the defendant enters a plea, pretrial hearings, and potentially a trial. Most criminal cases end in a plea bargain, but if the two sides cannot reach a favorable deal, a jury may need to hear the case.

Throughout this process, it is crucial to have a Colorado statutory rape defense attorney provide experienced counsel and guidance. A skilled lawyer could challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and fight back aggressively against sex crimes charges or any other charges you face. Some key steps include:. Remember, an accusation is not a conviction. You have the right to a legal defense and to have your case decided on the evidence.

A skilled criminal defense attorney can challenge the allegations, negotiate with prosecutors, and fight for the best outcome. The critical thing is to act quickly and avoid worsening your legal situation. Consulting with an attorney should be your first step in mounting an effective defense against statutory rape charges. Facing statutory rape charges is terrifying and overwhelming. The criminal justice system is complex, the stakes are high, and the prosecution has extensive resources. Hiring a skilled criminal defense attorney can make all the difference in the case outcome.

Colorado of the key benefits of having legal representation include:. Investing in solid legal defense is the most effective way to fight statutory rape charges and protect your future.

Romeo and Juliet Law in Colorado

Facing accusations of statutory rape is overwhelming and isolating. The consequences dating a conviction are severe, the legal system is intimidating, and it may feel like your entire future is hanging in the balance. But no matter how alone or afraid you feel, remember that you have rights, and there is hope. At The Moorhead Law Group, our attorneys bring decades of experience exclusively practicing criminal law.

1. What are Colorado’s dating laws?

When your future is on the line, you can count on us to be your relentless advocates. The sooner you contact our experienced criminal defense attorneys, the better your chances of securing a favorable resolution. Call us today at or reach out online to schedule your confidential consultation. Previous Next. What is the Romeo and Juliet Law colorado Colorado? There is no exception for consensual activity with a child under For minors aged 14 or younger, their partner must be less than four years laws. For minors agedtheir partner must be less than ten years older.

Some examples of permissible sexual relationships under the Romeo and Juliet exceptions: A year-old and a year-old A year-old and a year-old A year-old and a year-old However, these close-in-age exceptions do not apply if the older party is in a position of trust over the younger party, such as a teacher, coach, or church leader.

Defenses to Statutory Rape Charges There are a few possible defenses to Colorado statutory rape charges, but they are very limited, especially in cases involving sexual penetration. Some include: The accuser is lying, and no sexual activity dating The defendant was married to the underage party The defendant reasonably believed the other party was over 17 this is very difficult to prove Notably, mistaken age is not a defense. Some key steps include: Remain silent — You have the right to remain silent and avoid self-incrimination.

Do not discuss the allegations with anyone except your attorney, not even to proclaim your innocence. Remember, statutory rape charges differ significantly from charges of forcible rape, and your attorney can help you understand the specifics of your case. Hire a criminal defense attorney right away — Consult an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Look for https://search-by-image.info/best-online-hookup-app.php lawyer with specific experience handling sex crime cases and with whom you feel comfortable.

Avoid contact with the accuser click the following article Do not contact the alleged victim or their family under any circumstances. Doing so could lead to additional charges like witness tampering. Preserve evidence — Save any communications, documents, or other evidence relevant to the case, such as text messages or emails with the accuser. Follow their guidance and allow them to handle communications with investigators and prosecutors. Consider counseling — Criminal charges are highly stressful.

Consider seeking counseling or therapy to cope with the emotional impact of the situation. Some of the key benefits of having legal representation include: Protecting your rights — An experienced Colorado statutory rape lawyer will ensure your constitutional rights colorado protected throughout the process, from arrest through trial. Negotiating with prosecutors — Your attorney will know how to negotiate with prosecutors to get charges reduced or dismissed.

They can often reach a more favorable plea deal than a defendant colorado on their own. Defending you in court — A skilled lawyer will provide an aggressive defense before a judge and jury if the case goes to trial. Guiding you through the process — Your attorney will explain your options, advise you on the most appropriate path forward, and support you through this challenging ordeal. Related Posts. Colorado Sexting Laws. July 29th,