At Wasatch Defense Lawyers, we comprehend the severity and intricacy of sex crime accusations involving adolescents. Nonetheless, sex crimes are typically thought of in context with adult crime, yet adolescents under 18 years of age can also face sex crime allegations. These charges generally pose challenges similar to adult cases, especially regarding issues of consent. If not handled well, charges concerning sexual activity between minors can lead to severe consequences.
Certain offenses can translate into extended terms of imprisonment and even a requirement to register as a sex offender. If an adolescent is under investigation or has been arrested for a purported sex offense in Utah , we strongly recommend exercising the right to remain silent until you have legal counsel. You can contact us at for a free initial consultation. Sex crimes involving children often come into the limelight through local authorities who receive reports from worried parents.
Depending on the alleged sexual activity, a minor could face a spectrum of sexual offenses under the Utah Code. These crimes, deemed nonconsensual, range from sexual abuse of a minor to aggravated sexual assault. When a minor aged 16 years or older is found to have probable cause for committing certain specified offenses, including aggravated sexual assault, they may be bound over to District Court.
In Utah, numerous offenses, including those relating to minors, may necessitate sex offender registration. However, if an individual commits a subsequent offense as an adult, they may be subject to lifetime registration. Unlawful adolescent sexual activity in Utah encompasses a variety of charges. These include sexual abuse of a minor, rape, object rape, forcible sodomy, sodomy on a child, forcible sexual abuse, sexual abuse of a child, and aggravated sexual assault among others.
Unlawful adolescent sexual activity is seen as very serious in Utah. The charges could potentially lead to hefty penalties, including long-term imprisonment and a requirement to register as a sex offender. Our attorneys utilize a variety of strategies tailored to each individual case. These could involve challenging the reliability of the evidence, the credibility of the witnesses, the nature of the alleged consent or lack thereof, or advancing other defenses such as mistaken identity.
