You thought the conversation was harmless. Maybe it started on a dating app, where someone said they were older than they actually were. Or a coworker took a friendly chat the wrong way and later claimed you crossed a line. What seemed like a misunderstanding has now led to an arrest, and you’re facing charges you never expected. The police seized your phone, questioned you, and now you’re left worried, confused, and wondering what this accusation can do to you.
In the State of Colorado, sex crimes are prosecuted aggressively. The mere allegation of a sexual offense could have life-long consequences, but a Greenwood Village sex crimes lawyer at Colorado Lawyer Team is here to help you fight back and clear your name.
Why Hire Us to Fight the Sex Crime Allegations Against You?
Sex crimes like sexual assault and exploitation of a child immediately arouse public hostility, which inspires the prosecution to aggressively pursue a conviction. You need a criminal defense attorney who listens to your side of the story and fights for your future. At Colorado Lawyer Team, we draw on years of courtroom experience to minimize the impact of these charges on your life.
- You Matter to Us: From the moment you hire us, your case is handled by a real attorney, not passed down the chain. You’ll have direct contact with the person building your defense, and we’ll stay in regular communication as things unfold. That means your concerns are addressed quickly, and your defense reflects your side of the story.
- We Review Every Detail of the Allegations: We comb through all the records, from police reports and witness statements to text messages and call logs. Many sex crime cases hinge on interpretation, not hard facts. By checking for gaps, inconsistencies, and missing context, we can challenge accusations that don’t hold up under closer scrutiny.
- We Know How Prosecutors Build These Cases: Our background includes time on the prosecution side, so we know the strategies used to push for convictions. We use that knowledge to identify weak points in the case and anticipate what evidence the other side may rely on. That helps us stay one step ahead and build a stronger defense.
- We Keep You Informed and Involved: We explain what’s happening in clear terms and help you understand what each step means for your future. When decisions need to be made, whether it’s about hearings, statements, or trial strategy, you’ll be part of that conversation.
- We Know How to Handle Digital Evidence: In sex crime investigations, text messages, dating app conversations, and social media posts are often used to build a timeline or imply intent. We understand how easily these records can be taken out of context. We challenge vague or misleading interpretations and push back against evidence that lacks proper authentication.
- We Understand Physical Forensic Evidence: Our attorneys have reviewed countless Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) exams, and COLawTeam founder, Justie Nicol, has worked in healthcare previously for many years. Justie has worked on the insurance back-end of things, but also in direct patient care, running the front desk for many local clinics in Colorado. That knowledge is priceless in understanding not only legalese but the “doctor shorthand” contained in medical records.
Not every case goes to trial, but we prepare as if it will, and that helps us negotiate from a stronger position. These cases can take a ton of time, contain voluminous discovery, and/or involve DNA or Electronics Forensics experts. Depending on the circumstances, our goal is always to get the charges reduced or, ideally, dismissed so you can put this difficult time behind you.
Sex Crime Charges in Colorado
Sex crime charges in Colorado can have lasting consequences. Some offenses are misdemeanors, but most sex offenses are felonies that can lead to years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration. The law defines each charge in detail, and sentencing depends on the exact conduct, the age of the parties involved, and any prior history.
Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is a felony in Colorado. It’s defined as sexual penetration without consent, and it includes situations involving force, threats, intoxication, or mental incapacity. Depending on the situation, it may be charged as a class 4, 3, or 2 felony, with penalties ranging from two years to life in prison. If the victim is physically helpless or the act involves threats or a weapon, the charge becomes more severe. Mandatory public registration on the sex offender registry and prison time apply even on a first conviction.
Unlawful Sexual Contact
This charge covers unwanted sexual touching without penetration and often over clothing. It may involve coercion, impaired judgment due to drugs or alcohol, or misuse of authority. Unlawful sexual contact is usually charged as a class 1 misdemeanor, but it becomes a class 4 felony if force, threats, or intimidation are involved.
Sexual Assault on a Child
When the alleged victim is under 15 and the accused is at least four years older, the charge becomes sexual assault on a child. This is a class 4 felony at minimum, with penalties increasing sharply based on the age of the child and the presence of any aggravating factors like force or a pattern of abuse. If the offense involves a position of trust or multiple incidents over time, it can become a class 3 or class 2 felony, with sentencing enhancements under Colorado’s indeterminate sentencing laws.
Internet Luring of a Child
Internet luring of a child occurs when someone communicates with a person they believe is under 15 and attempts to persuade them to meet for a sexual purpose. Even if the child is fictional or an undercover officer, the charge can still apply, and entrapment isn’t a defense. This is typically a class 4 felony, but it becomes a class 3 felony if there’s an overt act or travel involved after the conversation. These cases often rely heavily on digital evidence, including chat messages, cell phone and IP data, and recorded phone calls.
Internet Sexual Exploitation of a Child
This offense involves attempting to engage a minor in sexually explicit behavior during an online exchange. It may include sending or requesting explicit images or videos, or trying to convince the child to expose themselves on a webcam. Internet sexual exploitation of a child is a class 4 felony and carries mandatory sex offender registration. Law enforcement often works with cybercrime units to build these cases, which can result in federal charges if they cross state lines. Our attorneys at COLawTeam are familiar with how to review digital evidence and really dig into these cases–even when the material is with the FBI.
Indecent Exposure
Indecent exposure includes exposing one’s genitals to alarm or offend another person. If the act includes sexual gratification, the penalties become more severe. A first offense is usually charged as a class 1 misdemeanor, but repeat offenses can be charged as felonies. Convictions may require registration as a sex offender, even though the act may seem minor compared to other sex-related charges.
Sexual Exploitation of a Child (Child Pornography)
This charge applies when someone possesses, distributes, or produces child pornography. Possession alone is a class 6 felony, while production or distribution can lead to class 3 or 2 felony charges. Penalties include years in prison, mandatory registration, and possible federal prosecution. Even if the material is digital and no physical contact occurs, the law treats it as a serious offense.
Penalties for a Greenwood Village Sex Crime Conviction
Penalties vary with the nature of the alleged sexual offense. According to Colorado Statute 18-3-402, a person convicted of sexual assault in Colorado could face a maximum fine of $750,000 and between four and 12 years in prison. However, the sentence can increase if the prosecutor can prove that certain aggravating factors apply, including:
- The victim is physically helpless and the actor knows the victim is physically helpless and cannot consent
- Physical force or physical violence was used
- Threat of physical harm, serious bodily injury, extreme pain, or victim believes actor will carry out these threats or threat of future harm to the victim
- The defendant used drugs or other intoxicants to cause the victim to have sex
- The victim suffers serious bodily harm as a result of the sexual assault
- The defendant possesses a deadly weapon
- The sexual assault is considered a “pattern” of abuse, or more than one occasion, and the victim is a child
- The defendant is in a position of trust, and the victim is under 15 years of age
- The defendant is on parole or felony probation
Unlike some felony offenses, Colorado law usually will not allow the record of a sex crime conviction to be sealed. In addition to fines and jail time, a conviction can lead to:
- Mandatory sex offender treatment
- Court costs
- Mandatory registration as a sex offender
For some of these crimes, a defendant could be sentenced to an indeterminate amount of incarceration in the Department of Corrections. This means that the parole board could determine that a defendant would never be released from prison or parole supervision due to the severity of the crime committed. Since the consequences of a conviction can be severe, you should discuss your case with an experienced Greenwood Village sex crimes attorney right away.
The Colorado Sex Offender Registry
Upon a conviction for a felony sex crime, a defendant must register as a sex offender with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. Registration with the CBI is mandatory for all sex crime convictions other than juveniles and those convicted of misdemeanors under Colorado Statute 16-22-103.
The sex offender registry requires people to provide biographical information, including an offender’s name, address, and physical description. The registry will also list the crimes a person is required to register is convicted of, as well as details of their alleged habits. Anyone who must register with the CBI will also have to update their information when they move. Failing to notify law enforcement about these residence changes can lead to additional criminal charges.
Collateral Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction in Colorado
There are additional consequences for a conviction of a sex crime in Colorado outside of the punishments prescribed by statute. A conviction could impact a person’s reputation as well as their legal rights. Some of the most common collateral consequences of a sex crime conviction are:
- Mandatory polygraph testing
- Ongoing drug testing
- Loss of parental (or grandparent) rights
- Limits on contact with minors
- Limits on travel and congregating where minors may be found
- Loss of internet-capable devices
- Loss of cameras with distance-enhancing equipment
- Mandatory sex offender treatment
- Difficulty obtaining housing
- Lost employment opportunities
- Loss of the right to own a firearm
- Loss of the right to vote,
- And many others…
If you’ve been arrested or believe you are about to be, call a sex offense attorney in Greenwood Village about how to address the allegations.
What Should You Do if You’re Arrested?
If you’re arrested, your first instinct may be to defend yourself or try to explain what you believe to be a misunderstanding. However, talking to the police without first retaining a criminal defense lawyer can be detrimental to your case. Here’s what we recommend you do if you’re taken into custody:
- Remain Silent: Law enforcement may ask questions that appear harmless, but your responses can be used to build a case against you. Politely inform officers that you will not answer questions without an attorney present. Remaining silent is not an admission of guilt – it is a lawful and necessary protection.
- Do Not Voluntarily Give Electronics to Law Enforcement: Even if you feel you have nothing to hide, do not consent to a search of your electronics. You waive any potential Motions regarding improper search if you do so. Law enforcement must obtain a search warrant for any electronics, and there are specific requirements before they can enforce such warrants.
- Do Not Resist or Confront the Arresting Officer: Attempting to argue, resist, or physically avoid arrest will only escalate the situation. Cooperate with the officer’s instructions, keep your movements controlled, and avoid making any statements.
- Request an Attorney Immediately: Clearly and firmly ask to speak with a criminal defense lawyer at the first opportunity. Once this request is made, law enforcement must cease questioning. Do not waive this right, even in exchange for what appears to be leniency or informal conversation.
- Don’t Discuss Your Case on the Jail Phone: Phone calls from detention facilities are typically monitored and recorded, so never discuss the charges with anyone other than your criminal defense lawyer on a confidential line. Non-attorney calls or conversations are not protected and often are used in court.
- Provide Your Sex Offense Attorney With All Information: Once you are able to speak privately with your lawyer, share all evidence you have and recount events in as much detail as possible. Complete and accurate information allows your legal team to assess the charges, review the facts, and prepare an appropriate response.
Can You Get Bail for a Sex Crime in Colorado?
In Colorado, most sex offenses are considered bailable, meaning defendants may be eligible for release, often under monetary bond or conditions. However, certain offenses, especially those involving minors, violent crimes, or weapons, can lead to bail being denied or set at a prohibitively high amount.
Your eligibility for bail depends on several key factors:
- Type of Charge and Severity: Felony sex offenses, such as sexual abuse, child exploitation, or internet luring, usually lead to higher bond amounts. Courts often view these crimes as presenting a potential danger or flight risk.
- Eligibility and Exceptions: Most defendants may request bail at their first appearance. However, sex offenses against minors, offenses deemed “extraordinary risk,” or cases involving violent repeat offenses may result in bail denial.
Courts are expected to prefer the least restrictive release method for achieving public safety while ensuring your court appearance. Monetary bail should be the last resort, but in practice, serious sex charges often trigger secured bonds. In addition, Colorado judges have broad discretion to set bail conditions aimed at ensuring court appearance and public safety. For example, they can impose restrictions such as no contact with alleged victims, travel bans, GPS monitoring, or substance testing.
Even when bail is granted, courts often impose conditions like no-contact orders, GPS monitoring, internet-capable-device monitoring, random check-ins, or restricted movement to limit risk. These conditions help ensure you remain available for hearings and don’t endanger others. If you violate bail terms, such as missing court dates or contacting the alleged victim, you face serious penalties. Colorado criminal law mandates a minimum one-year prison term for bond violations during sex offense cases, served consecutively with your original sentence.
Questions? Call a Greenwood Village Sex Crimes Lawyer Now
When it comes to sex crime allegations, you need experienced legal counsel that will fight to prevent these charges from impacting the rest of your life. If you or someone you love has been arrested, contact a Greenwood Village sex crimes lawyer at Colorado Lawyer Team now. For more information or to schedule an initial consultation, call (970) 344-9401 or contact our law firm online today.