Utah Rape Statistics
Sexual violence in the state of Utah affects thousands of residents each year.
Rape is the only violent crime in Utah that is higher than the national average. Rape is a very serious problem. Unfortunately, there are instances in which a person may be falsely accused of rape based on revenge, regret, or to gain the upper hand in a child custody situation.
If you have been accused of rape, falsely or otherwise, it is imperative that you speak to an experienced West Jordan rape defense attorney from Conyers & Nix as quickly as possible.
Why Choose a West Jordan Rape Defense Attorney from Conyers & Nix?
The crime of rape involves an allegation of sexual intercourse or penetration without a person’s consent. Rape allegations are aggressively prosecuted in Utah. If you are charged with rape, you must take the allegations very seriously. Rape is a first-degree felony with penalties from 5 years in prison to life in prison. If the alleged victim was seriously injured during the rape, the prison sentence could be 15 years to life in prison.
In addition to the criminal penalties you face if convicted, you could also be forced to register as a sex offender—possibly for the rest of your life. A felony conviction, along with the sex offender registry, could prevent you from getting a job, renting an apartment, obtaining a professional license or a government student loan, and much more. In other words, a rape conviction can adversely alter your life, possibly forever.
When you are facing such severe penalties and consequences, it is crucial that you speak to a knowledgeable, experienced sex crimes defense attorney. Attorneys Kate Conyers and Jesse Nix will defend you through this difficult time to achieve the best outcome possible. Kate and Jesse started their legal careers in the public defender’s office. This affords them a unique perspective and significantly more experience and varied experiences.
With more trial experience than most attorneys, Kate and Jesse have spent considerable time with judges and prosecutors who will be a part of your case. At Conyers & Nix, we speak to our clients differently, listen more than we talk, and never judge. We promptly answer phone calls, emails, and texts and go the extra mile to help our clients during this difficult time.
West Jordan, Utah
As one of the earliest Utah pioneer settlements following the founding of Salt Lake City, today, West Jordan has a population of approximately 117,000—and is one of the fastest-growing cities in Utah. West Jordan was named for the nearby Jordan River.
Much of Utah’s sugar beet history and production was centered in West Jordan, thanks to the large sugar factory in the community. Before urbanization took over, West Jordan was known for its fur industry.
While West Jordan is a safe place to live, criminal acts—including rape—do occur here. If you need a West Jordan rape defense attorney, your should contact an experienced attorney from Conyers & Nix.
Is Statutory Rape a Crime in the State of Utah?
Having sex with someone younger than you can result in statutory rape charges; a conviction can lead to jail and placement on the sex offender registry. Under Utah law, children 13 and younger are unable to consent to sex. Engaging in sexual activity with a 14 or 15-year-old can also be a criminal offense. If the age difference is more than four years, it can potentially become a felony offense. Therefore, while the age of consent is 16 in Utah, an adult ten years older than a 16 or 17-year-old is committing the crime of statutory rape. The charges are dependent on the age of both parties:
- A 14-year-old who engages in sex with a 13-year-old could conceivably face juvenile court charges. This is considered a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine up to $750, or both.
- A 17-year-old who engages in sexual activity with a 15-year-old could potentially be charged with a Class B misdemeanor—unlawful sexual activity with a minor. A conviction could bring up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
- An 18-year-old senior in high school who engages in sex with a 14-year-old would be charged with a felony, and a 30-year-old man who has sex with a person under the age of 18 would also be charged with a felony.
- Aggravating factors, like forcible rape, two or more perpetrators, or a helpless victim, can result in statutory rape charges being increased to first or second-degree felonies.
Utah has a “marital exemption” for the offense of statutory rape, allowing consensual sex even when the respective ages would prohibit sex if they were not married.
Is Marital Rape a Crime in the State of Utah?
Sex with a spouse without their consent is considered rape; however, it can be more difficult to prosecute than rape by a stranger. Marital rape can be charged as a first-degree felony, punishable by life in prison. If you have been charged with marital rape, you must take the charges very seriously, speaking to a highly skilled West Jordan rape defense attorney as quickly as possible.
How a West Jordan Rape Defense Attorney from Conyers & Nix Can Help
If you are facing rape charges, having a strong and experienced West Jordan rape defense attorney by your side is essential. At Conyers & Nix, we will evaluate the facts of your charges, then develop a plan for your defense. We zealously fight for every client and will do the same for you. Attorneys Kate Conyers and Jesse Nix are never afraid to go to trial. We prepare every case as if it will end up at trial—thoroughly and meticulously. We never accept a first plea deal, understanding there is always room for negotiation. We want the very best deal possible for you and will not give up until the prosecutor agrees to our terms—or we go to trial. Contact Conyers & Nix today.