One of the most serious offenses someone can face in Colorado is sexual assault. A conviction can carry devastating penalties, including a potential life sentence. If you are facing allegations, having a knowledgeable Loveland sexual assault attorney by your side can make a critical difference. Criminal defense lawyer Sean P. Harrell has extensive experience prosecuting and defending sexual assault cases. He can evaluate your situation, identify flaws in the prosecution’s case, and help you understand your legal options.
If you’ve been arrested or believe you are under investigation for sexual assault, contact a trusted Loveland sexual assault lawyer at The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC today. Call (970) 791-2006 or reach out to us online for a confidential consultation.
What Is Sexual Assault in Colorado?
Different states define sexual assault differently. In Colorado, sexual assault does not involve less serious acts of groping or touching intimate parts (but these offenses are covered under unlawful sexual contact crimes). Instead, sexual assault in Colorado is the knowing act of unwanted sexual penetration or intrusion.
Unwanted sexual penetration or intrusion can occur if the alleged victim did any of the following:
- Said they did not want the sexual act to occur
- Was drugged by the defendant
- Was disabled and unable to consent
- Was physically helpless and the defendant knew this
- Wrongly believed the defendant was their spouse
- Was under the age of 15
- Was 15 or 16 years old while the defendant was at least ten years older than them
- Only complied because of the threat of force
- Was incarcerated or in a hospital or other institution where the defendant had supervisory or disciplinary authority over them and used that position to coerce the victim to submit to the sexual act
- Was receiving medical treatment and the defendant committed the act under the guise of providing care
Understanding Your Rights After a Sexual Assault Charge
If you are facing charges of sexual assault or believe you are under suspicion, it’s essential to understand your rights and options. This is one of the most serious criminal charges in Colorado, and the consequences of a conviction can be life-altering. Whether you need clarity on the charges against you or want to build a strong defense, a knowledgeable Loveland sexual assault lawyer can guide you through the legal process.
Potential Penalties for Sexual Assault
The potential penalties that someone can face if they are charged with sexual assault depend on the nature of the crime, the circumstances, and how the crime is classified under the law. Here is a breakdown of the potential penalties in various scenarios:
| Classification of Offense | Scenarios When Charged | Presumptive Penalty Ranges |
| Class 2 felony |
|
Eight years’ imprisonment – up to life imprisonment, up to $1,000,000 in fines |
| Class 3 felony |
|
Four to sixteen years’ imprisonment – up to life imprisonment, up to $750,000 in fines |
| Class 4 felony |
|
Two to eight years’ imprisonment- up to life imprisonment, up to $500,000 in fines |
Sentencing for all three charging levels of sexual assault are indeterminate, but can – depending upon the circumstances – include life imprisonment. For instance, statutory aggravation can increase the minimum sentencing range.
In addition to the criminal penalties, you can face other life-changing consequences if you are convicted of sexual assault in Loveland, including the termination of your parental rights and the requirement to register as a sex offender.
Possible Defenses a Loveland Sexual Assault Lawyer May Use
A skilled Loveland sexual assault attorney may be able to raise strong defenses such as:
- Consent
- Missing elements of the crime
- Mistaken identity
- False accusations
- Miscommunication
Contact The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC for Assistance
Being accused of sexual assault in Colorado is a life-altering event that demands immediate legal representation. Don’t face these serious charges alone. The Loveland sexual assault attorneys at The Harrell Law Firm, PLLC are prepared to review your case, explain your rights, and develop a strategy tailored to your defense. We provide judgment-free, confidential consultations to help you understand your options and take the next steps with confidence.
Call us today at (970) 791-2006 or fill out our online contact form to speak with a trusted criminal defense lawyer.