Fort Collins Sex Crimes Lawyer

At Bruno Lilly Legal, PLLC, our Fort Collins sex crimes defense attorney is a zealous, aggressive advocate for clients. As a former prosecutor in Weld County, our lead attorney knows exactly how the state handles these cases. You need professional representation.

If you or your loved one was accused of or arrested for a sex-related offense, we are here to protect your rights and help you find the best path forward. To set up a confidential consultation with a top-rated Fort Collins sex crimes defense lawyer, please do not hesitate to contact us today at 720-340-1373 or reach out to us directly online. 

Sex Crimes Allegations Carry Significant Stigma: You Have a Right to Defend Yourself

Sex crime allegations can have life-altering consequences, even if the accusations are false or exaggerated. The stigma surrounding these charges can ruin a person’s reputation, affect personal relationships, and lead to severe legal penalties, including jail time and fines. While these allegations should be taken seriously by police and prosecutors, every person is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

If you are facing sex crime charges in Larimer County, it is crucial to know your rights and options for defending yourself. A skilled and experienced For Collins criminal defense lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, build a strong defense, and protect your rights and

We Handle the Full Range of Sex Crimes Charges in Fort Collins, CO

Were you or a close loved one accused of a sex-related criminal offense in Fort Collins? It is imperative that you take proactive measures to protect your rights and interests. You do not want to fall behind police and prosecutors.

Whether you are facing an accusation, an investigation, or have already been arrested, our Fort Collins sex crimes defense attorney is standing by, ready to review your case and help you determine the next steps. Sex crimes we handle in Fort Collins include: 

• Sexual Contact: CRS § 18-3-404
• Sexual Assault: CRS § 18-3-402
• Sexual Assault on a Child: CRS § 18-3-405
• Exploitation of Child (Internet): CRS § 18-3-405.4 
• Failure to Register as a Sex Offender: CRS § 18-3-412.5

What Defenses Can Be Raised Against a Sex Crimes Charge in Colorado?

Facing a sex crimes charge in Fort Collins can be a terrifying, overwhelming experience. At the same time, it is important to remember that you have the right to raise a zealous defense of yourself against these charges.

There are a variety of different types of legal defenses that may apply to your case. Here are some of the most common defenses against a sex crimes charge in Colorado:

• Consent: If the alleged victim consented to the sexual act, this may be a defense to the charges. Of course, consent is not a viable defense to any charge involving a minor. By definition, a minor cannot consent. 
• False Accusation: Unfortunately, false accusations of sex crimes do occur. If you were wrongly accused, your defense lawyer can gather evidence to support your innocence.
• Mistaken Identity: If you have been wrongly accused because of a mistake in identifying the actual perpetrator, your defense lawyer can work to clear your name.
• Lack of evidence: In order to secure a conviction, it is the job of the prosecution to present sufficient evidence to prove a defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is not enough evidence to support the charges, your Fort Collins defense lawyer can argue for a dismissal or acquittal.

What to Know About the Penalties for a Sex Crimes Charge in Colorado

Sex crimes are taken seriously in Colorado. Even a misdemeanor charge of unlawful sexual contact can carry stiff criminal penalties. The penalties associated with any specific sex crimes offense will vary based on a number of different factors, including the charge in question and the defendant’s history of prior offenses, or lack thereof.

For example, misdemeanor sexual contact can carry a maximum sentence of up to 364 days in prison. Forcible sexual assault is a Class 3 felony offense that carries up to 16 years in prison as a maximum sentence. If you were arrested for a sex-based offense, make sure you understand exactly what type of criminal liability you are facing. 

A Conviction Can Carry Adverse Consequence Beyond Direct Criminal Penalties

A conviction for a sex crime in Fort Collins, Colorado can have far-reaching consequences that go beyond the direct criminal penalties. In addition to serving time in jail or paying fines, a conviction can impact many aspects of a person’s life, including:

• Loss of Professional License: Certain careers, such as teaching or healthcare, may require a professional license. A sex crime conviction could result in the loss of this license.
• Difficulty Finding Employment: Many employers conduct background checks, and a sex crime conviction can make it challenging to secure a job.
• Impact on Student Loan/College Applications: Some student loan programs and loan applications require a background check. A sex crime conviction could impact a person’s ability to receive financial aid or loans.
• Issues With Housing: Obtaining a mortgage or renting an apartment can be more difficult if you have a sex crimes conviction on your record, especially so if you are required to register as a sex offender. 
• Reputational Damage: A sex crime conviction can damage a person’s reputation and cause shame, embarrassment, and social stigma. It is an especially important consideration because Colorado law requires sex offender registration and/or public disclosures for many sex crime offenses.  

Understanding Sex Offender Registration in Colorado 

In Colorado, individuals convicted of certain sex crimes are required to register as sex offenders. Indeed, our state has some of the most strict and comprehensive sex offender registration rules in the entire country.

Any person facing a sex-crimes charge should understand the sex offender registration requirements that would come with a guilty plea or conviction. Colorado law requires sex offender registration for all felony sex crimes.

Failure to register as a sex offender is, itself, a new criminal offense that can result in an immediate arrest and jail time.  

Sex Crimes in Fort Collins: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Should I Provide a Statement to Police After an Arrest?

You do not have to provide a statement to the police after an arrest. Under the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution, every person has the right to remain silent and not self-incriminate. In other words, you have the right to not answer questions from police or any other law enforcement officials. It is imperative that you exercise this right when facing a sex crimes charge. Seek the advice of a Fort Collins criminal defense attorney before talking to the police. 

Is Consent a Defense Against a Sex Crimes Charge in Colorado?

The viability of consent as a defense against a sex crime charge in Colorado depends on the specific circumstances of the case. In some cases, consent can be a valid defense against charges such as sexual assault or sexual battery. However, consent is not a viable defense against charges that involve minors, such as statutory rape or sexual assault on a child. In these cases, the law in Colorado recognizes that minors are not capable of giving consent. 

Is a Plea Bargain the Right Option For Me?

Whether a plea bargain is the right option for you if you are facing sex crime charges in Colorado depends on various factors, including the strength of the evidence, the specific charges, and your personal circumstances. A plea bargain could potentially result in a lighter sentence or reduced charges. Of course, it also involves pleading guilty to a crime, which can have serious consequences. A plea deal should be negotiated and reviewed by an experienced Fort Collins defense lawyer. 

How Our Fort Collins, CO Sex Crimes Lawyers Can Help 

Facing allegations of a sex crime is one of the most stressful, difficult things that a person can go through. Your reputation, your rights, and your freedom could be at stake. As a former prosecutor, our founding attorney Havilah Louise Bruno Lilly has deep knowledge and experience with criminal law in Colorado. She is a trial-tested, justice-driven advocate who is devoted to providing zealous representation to clients. We are proactive, not reactive. Among other things, our Fort Collins sex crimes defense lawyer is prepared to: 

• Listen to your story and answer your questions about the criminal process;
• Explain your legal rights and legal options;
• Investigate the charges, gathering and preparing relevant evidence; 
• Help you evaluate and raise all applicable legal defenses; and
• Develop a personalized strategy to protect your rights and secure the best results. 

Schedule a Confidential Consultation Fort Collins Sex Crimes Attorney Today

At Bruno Lilly Legal, PLLC, our Fort Collins sex crimes defense lawyer is a compassionate, experienced, and solutions-driven advocate for clients. If you or your loved one was accused of a sex crime, we are here to help. Contact us today to arrange a completely confidential, no-obligation initial consultation. We provide defense against sex crime charges in Fort Collins and throughout the region in Larimer County, including in Loveland, Wellington, Estes Park, and Timnath.