Juveniles can be and are charged with sexual assault on a child in the state of Colorado. Any sexual contact between someone 14 or younger and a minor 4 or more years older can result in devastating criminal charges for teens. With electronic communication at an all time high, minors are corresponding with one another with little regard for age difference. An accusation or charge of sexual assault on a child against your son or daughter is serious and a call to an experienced juvenile defense attorney is essential.

How Can a Teenager Be Charged with Sexual Assault on a Child?

It is particularly important for parents and their teenage children to understand the laws surrounding sexual contact in Denver, Aurora, and Lakewood. C.R.S. 18-3-405 defines the circumstances of sexual assault on a child in Colorado. A juvenile commits this sex offense if they:

• knowingly subject another (not their spouse) to any sexual contact,
• if the the victim is 14 or younger,
• and the actor is 4 or more years older than the victim

Legally, consent is irrelevant in these situations. Additionally, a juvenile can be considered a position of trust in respect to other minors. C.R.S. 18-3-405.3 describes the conduct of sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust. Juveniles commit this sex crime if they:

• knowingly subject another (not their spouse) to any sexual contact,
• if the victim is 17 or younger,
• and the actor is in a position of trust to the victim

Juveniles in a position of trust include roles such as teaching assistants, babysitters, daycare employees, and tutors.

Consequences for Juvenile Sexual Assault on a Child in Colorado

Teenagers face an uphill climb if convicted of sexual assault on a child. Some possible consequences include:

• Department of Youth Corrections
• altered living situations (sometimes with other suitable relatives)
• probation
• fines
• restitution to the victim
• treatment overseen by the Sex Offender Management Board

The restrictions / supervision can dictate where your son or daughter lives, what they do on a day-to-day basis, and who they can be around. Splitting up a family due to a juvenile sex offense can be particularly harmful to a teenager and their needs as a young person.

Experienced Defense Lawyers for Juvenile Sex Crimes

We understand that situations where your teenager is accused of a sex crime feel especially unbearable. You may not know what to do or where to turn for help. Our skilled sex crimes attorneys are prepared and passionate about defending your child's rights and protecting your family's future. Decades of experience representing juvenile clients throughout Colorado makes a difference and can positively impact the outcome of your child's case. Perhaps your teen has been falsely accused or an alleged victim is embellishing what actually occurred. Nevertheless, contact our office for a free consultation where we will analyze your unique case and suggest next steps in forming a strong defense.

If your teen or someone that you know is facing juvenile sexual assault on a child, be smart. Contact the highly rated defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.

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