Provo Child Sex Abuse Lawyer | Utah Sexual Abuse of Children Defense
Sexual Crimes Against Children Are Serious
In Utah sex crimes are held to a high standard and often they have very serious penalties attached to them. This is magnified when the crime that has been committed is against a child. Such crimes can become an aggravated charge, making the sexual abuse of a child a first degree felony equal to that of a forceable rape. Without an aggravated charge it will typically remain a second degree felony, but that is still serious in its own right as it carries up to 15 years in the state prison.
Any Person Younger Then Fourteen is a Child
Utah law is very clear that the dividing line between a child and someone with some accountability to at least their peers is the age fourteen. This is a hard rule and not knowing that the victim is under fourteen will not be a defense. If the accused is a person trusted by the child, or gets to know the child only to have access to commit the sexual advances then the prosecution can charge the accused with the aggravated from of the crime coupling with it the stiffer and more stringent penalties.
Sexual Abuse of a Child is not just intercourse, but any sexual touching by either the victim or the accused for the gratification of the accused even if there was some element of “consent.” However, because children by nature can not give consent according to the law this is not a defense available to those accused of this crime.
Protect Your Rights
The knowledgeable attorneys at the law firm Provo Criminal Defense have helped many in this situation and if you or someone you care for has been accused of this crime contact us immediately. We are ready to fight for your rights and ensure that you recieve a fair trial according to the law. Do not delay, contact us today for a consultation on your situation. 801.800.8246.
