Sex Crimes

Sex Crimes

Suspected, accused, or charged with a sex crime is a very serious situation. The short and long-term consequences can be devastating for both you and your family. Are you or a loved one are facing sex crime charges in Utah?  You need the expertise of the attorneys of Schmidt Law Firm to fight for your rights.

What Are Sex Crimes?

Almost any sexual offense or sex crime is serious. A sex crime, a sexual act considered deviant in nature.  A forced or non-consensual sexual act, or the exchange of a sexual act for money.  Additionally, some sexual activities still considered crimes even if with consent. The following considered acts of sex crimes.

Aggravated Sexual Assault

This sexual offense a felony, typically defined as a sexual assault that wounds.  It disfigures, or maims the victim. It also involves sexual acts on victims who are mentally or physically incapacitated.

Rape

Considered unlawful sexual intercourse.  Also, any other form of sexual penetration to any area of the body, with or without force. The act could involve the use of a sexual organ, another body part, or a foreign object.  All without the consent of the victim.

Forcible Sexual Abuse

If the victim is age 14 or older and the circumstances do not amount to other types of sex crimes, such as rape or sodomy. Forcible sexual abuse, an act directed against another person.  Also, forcible and against their will, or if the person is incapable of giving consent.

Sexual Abuse of a Minor

This unlawful sexual activity includes the following if you are at least seven years older than the minor:

  • Sexual intercourse with a minor
  • Engaging in any sexual act with a minor that involves the mouth or anus of one person and the genitals of another person.
  • Sexual activity that results in any type of penetration to the genital or anal opening of the minor with a foreign object or body part with the intent to gratify sexual desires.

Sex Crime Charges

  • Each type of sex crime is punishable under their own terms. The possibilities for imprisonment greatly vary based on your individual charges.
  • Class A Misdemeanor: A fine not to exceed $2,500
  • 1st Degree Felony: A fine not to exceed $10,000, including: Not less than 5 years imprisonment, which may be for life. Depending on the crime, the possibility of life without parole.
  • 2nd Degree Felony: Imprisonment for no less than 1 year and no more than 15 years.
  • 3rd Degree Felony: Imprisonment for no more than 5 years.

In addition to fines and imprisonment, if charged with a sex crime you may also be ordered to pay restitution to the victim and provide a DNA sample.

Long-term consequences include the lifetime loss of your rights to have firearms or ammunition and registration on the Sex Offender Registry . Depending on the sex crime committed, you may be required to register on this registry for a period of 10 years following the release of imprisonment or for a lifetime. The Sex Offender Registry is open to the public, putting you at risk for public scrutiny. You will lose the ability to obtain certain professional licenses, not be permitted near school grounds and can bear restrictions on housing as well.

Taking Steps to Protect Yourself

In considering the serious penalties that may be imposed if convicted of a sex crime, it is absolutely essential for a defendant to seek professional legal counsel. You can feel confident that the legal representation received from Schmidt Law Firm will afford you the ability to exercise your rights, providing you will the necessary tools to make an informed decision.

If you want representation by attorneys who strive for success, have the desire to succeed, and a determination to prove your innocence, contact Schmidt Law Firm today for a consultation at (801) 990-6390, or by filling out our online form .

Schmidt Law has over 20 years of experience in criminal defense , family law , personal injury, estate planning and business litigation.

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