Utah Rape Overview
Few things are more terrifying than facing rape allegations. The social stigma alone can feel like more than you can handle. Social media may add to the social stigma. You may feel isolated and constantly worried about your future. If you’ve been charged with rape in Utah, you need a West Valley City rape defense lawyer who will go the extra mile to protect you, your rights, and your future.
Rape is sexual intercourse with another person without their consent. It does not matter if the other person is your spouse, if you had both consumed too much alcohol, or if the word “no” was never said. If the other party alleges rape, the justice system will likely believe them, even when there is no physical proof. Rape is a first-degree felony, carrying a minimum mandatory sentence of 5 years in prison, but it can go as high as life in prison without parole.
Rape committed by a juvenile occurs when the accused is under the age of 18. While a life sentence cannot be imposed on an individual under the age of 18 for the crime of rape, the crime will count as a prior offense should the individual be accused again. Further, being a juvenile does not reduce the mandatory minimum sentences for rape. Having a strong, zealous legal advocate from Conyers & Nix can make a huge difference in the outcome of your rape charges.
Why Choose a West Valley City Rape Defense Lawyer from Conyers & Nix
At Conyers & Nix, the legal team of Kate Conyers and Jesse Nix will advocate strongly for you. We understand you are frightened about your future, stressed, and anxious as you face these charges. We will answer your questions in a clear, non-judgmental manner. We are empathetic to your situation and truly care about your future. We will work with you to make it through these challenges, reminding you that this will be a time when this experience will be in your past.
We fight for our clients and will rarely advise you to plead on your first court date. We don’t accept a first plea offer—we know we can do better for our clients with aggressive negotiations. We will never do anything that is not in your best interests. We fight against unjust sentencing recommendations that focus on retribution and punishment. We advocate and emphasize rehabilitation and recovery. When you choose Conyers & Nix, you will find that we listen to you as you tell us about the circumstances and facts surrounding your charges. Don’t try to handle rape charges alone—we are here to help you get through this in the best way possible.
Is Rape a Serious Charge in Utah?
Several sexual offenses in Utah are considered rape crimes. All are severe offenses. Rape does not necessarily require violence or force, only a lack of consent. There is a separate statute for rape against a child under the age of 14 and another for object rape. Forcible sodomy is a rape crime as well and can be charged if committed against an adult or child. You must take charges of rape very seriously because the penalties are incredibly harsh and can potentially last a lifetime.
What is the Maximum Sentence for a Rape Charge in Utah?
Rape would be a first-degree felony, with a sentence of five years to life in prison or 15 years to life if there were serious bodily injuries. If there is a prior record of a serious sex crime, a rape conviction can bring life without parole. Rape of a child is a first-degree felony, punishable by 25 years to life in prison. Object rape, object rape of a child, and forcible sodomy are all first-degree felonies, punishable by five years to life in prison, depending on the circumstances and whether the injury was inflicted.
Can a West Valley City Rape Defense Lawyer from Conyers & Nix Help Me?
At Conyers & Nix, we will always provide both best and worst-case scenarios regarding the likely resolution to your rape charges. With our help, we know there will be a moment when this experience is behind you, and we will work with you to help you get to that place in your life. We listen and empathize while working hard for the best resolution possible. Contact Conyers & Nix today—you will be glad you did.