Salt Lake City Sex Crimes Defense Attorney

Fighting Sex Crime Accusations in Utah

They are some of the most heinous acts a human being can be accused of. As such, if you are charged with a sex crime, you may face severe life-long consequences. Utah has some of the harshest penalties for sex crimes in the nation. Charges of rape, child molestation and child pornography can leave your life in shambles.

Do not fight these charges alone.

Sex crimes carry a heavy price. Not only could you face years in prison, but your reputation is also permanently stained. Thus, it is vital to clear your name as quickly as possible. As a Salt Lake City sex crimes defense lawyer, I utilize a vast amount of legal resources to help my clients achieve the best results.

It is vital to seek immediate legal counsel from an experienced Salt Lake City defense attorney that can protect your rights and look after your best interests. I, Catherine Cleveland, am a seasoned sex crimes defense attorney. Over the last 20 years, I have successfully represented countless people who were accused of sex crimes and helped them regain or maintain their freedom.

If you’re facing charges for a sex crime, speak to an attorney first. Call (801) 448-0683 or reach out to me online to arrange a free consultation. If you are a juvenile, please check out our Juvenile Sex Crimes page.

Sex Crime Cases We Handle

I have represented men and women from all walks of life for the following offenses:

• Rape
• Statutory rape
• Mandatory sex offender registration
• Internet sex crimes
• Chat room solicitation
• Illegal pornography charges
• Computer search and seizure
• Date rape
• Molestation

Sex Crimes Penalties in Utah

Depending on the severity of your offense, the victim’s identity, and your prior conviction history (if applicable) you may face the following consequences:

Rape: First-degree felony

• Imprisonment for 5 years to life.
• If you caused serious bodily injury to another or was under 18 years old and previously convicted of a grievous sexual offense: Imprisonment for 20 years to life.
• If you were previously convicted of a grievous sexual offense: Imprisonment for life without parole.

Statutory rape: Third-degree felony

• Imprisonment for up to 5 years.
• Class B misdemeanor: If the defendant proves they were less than 4 years older than the minor at the time of the alleged incident. You may face up to 6 months in prison.

Aggravated sexual assault: First-degree felony

• For aggravated sexual assault in the course of rape, object rape, forcible sodomy, or forcible sexual abuse:
  • Imprisonment for 20 years to life.
  • Life without parole if you were previously convicted of a grievous sexual offense and was not under 18 years old at the time of the offense.
• For aggravated sexual assault in the course of attempted rape, attempted object rape, or attempted forcible sodomy:
  • Imprisonment for 10 years to life.
  • Life without parole if you were previously convicted of a grievous sexual offense and was not under 18 years old at the time of the offense.

• For aggravated sexual assault in the course of attempted forcible sexual abuse:
  • Imprisonment for 6 years to life.
  • Life without parole if you were previously convicted of a grievous sexual offense and was not under 18 years old at the time of the offense.

Unlawful sexual activity with a minor: Third-degree felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison.

Sexual exploitation of a minor: Second-degree felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

Defense Strategies for Sex Crimes in Salt Lake City

As an experienced Salt Lake City criminal defense attorney, I am fully committed to providing the highest level of defense for my clients. Accusations of a sex crime can damage your reputation and feel like the entire world is against you. But, with me on your side, I can help you overcome your charge using the following defenses:

• False Charges: Far too many people are the victims of false charges brought by the police or an angry and spiteful accuser. What was thought to be consensual sex can suddenly turn into allegations of rape.
• Entrapment: This occurs when you are placed in a situation to commit a crime you would normally not commit.
• Computer Hacking: Many people are falsely accused of child pornography due to the hacking of their computer systems. A hacker can illegally download pornographic photos into your hard drive and make your life miserable.
• False Memory Syndrome: This often happens when a child accuses an adult of a sex crime. When a child is asked questions by an adult, it can cause them to remember or say things that did not happen.
• Illegal Search & Seizure: Evidence confiscated by the police without a proper search warrant is not admissible in court.

Don’t face this troubling, complicated experience without a personable and compassionate defense lawyer. I, Catherine Cleveland, am here for you when all odds seem to be against you.

Arrested for a sex crime? Arrange your free phone consultation with me online or by calling (801) 448-0683!