Salt Lake City Rape Attorney

Rape involves an offender engaging in sexual intercourse without the victim’s consent. In Utah, rape is a first-degree felony punishable for no less than five years and which may be up to life in prison without parole. What is commonly known as statutory rape is referred to as rape of a child and involves a victim under 14 years of age. Rape of a child carries a minimum prison term of 30 years and the possibility of life in prison without parole if convicted.

Two teens engaged in consensual sexual activity do not think of themselves as breaking the law. However, depending on their age difference, the older individual may be committing what is also commonly referred to as statutory rape, which in Utah is unlawful sexual activity.

Under any circumstances, rape and statutory rape cases are complex. At the Law Offices of David Paul White and Associates, we have more than 25 years of criminal defense experience. We have the knowledge and skill to defend adults and juveniles charged with rape or unlawful sexual activity or conduct with a minor.

Sex With a Minor

In Utah, consensual sexual activity involving a person between ages 14-17 is covered under three offenses:

• Unlawful sexual activity with a minor: The victim is a person age 14-15 and the offender is up to six years older than the victim
• Unlawful sexual abuse of a minor: The victim is a person age 14-15 and the offender is at least seven years older than the victim
• Unlawful sexual conduct with a person age 16-17: The offender is at least 10 years older than the victim

Depending on the type of sexual activity and the ages of the participants, you can be charged with a misdemeanor or felony. Sexual intercourse does not have to occur for a crime to be committed if there is a significant age difference. It is best to discuss the specifics of your case with a sex crimes defense lawyer to learn how the law may apply to your case.

Conviction may require you to register as a sex offender nationally and on Utah’s sex and kidnap offender notification and registration (SONAR). Despite the consensual nature of the relationship, you could be marked as a sex offender for the rest of your life.

Contact a Salt Lake City Defense Attorney

Please call 801-266-4114 to schedule a free consultation. The firm has offices in Salt Lake City, Murray and St. George.