Serving Aurora, Denver Metro & Colorado | 15+ Years of Criminal Defense Experience
Unlawful Sexual Contact Defense Attorney
Fighting Misdemeanor and Felony Allegations Under C.R.S. 18-3-404
Accused of Unlawful Sexual Contact? Don't Face the Charges Alone
In Colorado, a charge of unlawful sexual contact under C.R.S. 18-3-404 is a serious allegation that falls within the broader scope of sex crimes defense. A conviction can lead to jail time, mandatory sex offender registration, and lasting damage to your reputation—even when accusations are false, exaggerated, or based on incomplete information.
At The Lawrence Law Firm, we represent individuals throughout Aurora, Denver, Arapahoe, Adams, and Douglas Counties who are facing unlawful sexual contact charges. We understand what’s at stake in these cases and provide aggressive, strategic defense focused on protecting your rights, your record, and your future.
What is Unlawful Sexual Contact in Colorado?
Under Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-3-404, a person commits unlawful sexual contact when they knowingly subject another person to sexual contact without consent, or when the alleged victim is incapable of consenting due to age, intoxication, or other circumstances.
Unlawful sexual contact can occur in several ways, including when:
- The actor forces or coerces the victim
- The victim is asleep, intoxicated, or otherwise unable to consent
- The actor knows the victim is mentally or physically incapable of resisting
- The actor uses a position of authority or trust
- The contact is made for sexual gratification, arousal, or abuse
Unlike charges for sexual assault, unlawful sexual contact does not require penetration—mere touching of intimate parts (clothed or unclothed) can be enough to support charges under this statute.
It is important to speak with an unlawful sexual contact defense attorney to understand the full scope of these charges.
Legal Definitions That Matter in These Cases
To fully understand a charge of unlawful sexual contact, it’s helpful to clarify some of the legal definitions in Colorado law:
- Sexual Contact: Touching the victim’s intimate parts or having the victim touch the actor’s intimate parts for the purpose of sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse.
- Intimate Parts: Includes the external genitalia, anus, buttocks, and breasts.
- Without Consent: Means the victim did not voluntarily agree to the act and may have been coerced, threatened, or unable to consent.
Request a Free Consultation
If you have been accused of unlawful sexual contact, you need an advocate who understands the seriousness of these charges. Speak with an experienced unlawful sexual contact defense attorney today to protect your rights and your future.
Penalties for Unlawful Sexual Contact in Colorado
Misdemeanor Unlawful Sexual Contact:
In most cases, unlawful sexual contact is charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor, which carries:
- Up to 364 days in jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- Mandatory sex offender registration
- Possible probation with intensive supervision
Felony Unlawful Sexual Contact Charges:
If the offense involves use of force, threats, or drug-facilitated contact, the charge may be elevated to a Class 4 felony, punishable by:
- 2 to 8 years in prison
- Fines up to $500,000
- Indeterminate sentencing in some cases
- Mandatory lifetime sex offender registration
- Parole following incarceration
Examples of Aggravating Factors:
- Use of violence or physical restraint
- Contact that occurs while the victim is incapacitated
- Actor is in a position of authority or trust
- Victim is a minor or vulnerable adult
Even a first-time misdemeanor conviction can result in permanent registration on Colorado’s sex offender registry, making it critical to challenge the charges early and aggressively.
Mandatory Sex Offender Registration
Conviction of unlawful sexual contact—whether a misdemeanor or felony—requires registration under the Colorado Sex Offender Registration Act (C.R.S. 16-22-101).
Consequences include:
- Publicly searchable registry listing
- Limitations on where you can live or work
- Mandatory treatment programs
- Community supervision and curfews
- Travel and internet restrictions
In some cases, a person may petition for removal from the registry after a required number of years. However, for many, registration can last a decade or more—or be permanent, depending on classification.
Common Defenses to Unlawful Sexual Contact
Each case is fact-specific, but effective defenses may include:
- Consent
If the alleged contact was consensual, there is no unlawful sexual contact. This is a common and powerful defense, particularly when there are no witnesses or physical evidence.
- False Allegations
In some cases, allegations are made due to:
- Misunderstandings
- Relationship disputes
- Child custody battles
- Jealousy or retaliation
We investigate the motive behind the accusation and challenge inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements.
- Mistaken Identity
This is particularly relevant in incidents involving group settings, alcohol, or poor lighting. Eyewitness misidentification happens more often than people think.
- Lack of Evidence
Many charges rely solely on the alleged victim’s statement. We challenge weak or unsupported evidence and ensure that every claim is tested under cross-examination.
- Police or Procedural Misconduct
Statements made during an unlawful interrogation or evidence obtained in an illegal search may be suppressed—weakening or destroying the prosecution’s case.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Unlawful sexual contact charges often hinge on credibility—your word against someone else’s. Having an experienced sex crimes attorney can make the difference between a dismissed charge and a permanent criminal record.
At The Lawrence Law Firm, we:
- Investigate every angle of the case
- Challenge weak or flawed evidence
- Work with forensic and psychological experts
- Negotiate strategically with prosecutors
- Take cases to trial when necessary
Our unlawful sexual contact defense attorney also ensure that your rights are protected during police investigations, court appearances, and plea negotiations.
What to Expect After Being Charged With Unlawful Sexual Contact
- Investigation: Law enforcement may contact you before charges are filed. You should never speak to police without an attorney present.
- Arrest or Summons: If the case proceeds, you will either be arrested or summoned to court for arraignment.
- Pretrial Hearings: Your attorney may file motions to dismiss, suppress evidence, or reduce the charge.
- Plea or Trial: If no resolution is reached, the case will go to trial, where a jury will determine your guilt or innocence.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the court may impose jail, probation, treatment, and registration requirements.
Why Choose The Lawrence Law Firm
When you’re facing a sex-related charge, you need more than just legal advice—you need a battle-tested sex crimes defense team who understands how to navigate the stigma, fight the evidence, and protect your future.
We offer:
- Over 15+ years of experience in Colorado criminal courts
- Focused defense on sex crimes and violent offenses
- Honest communication and strategic advice
- Free consultations and flexible scheduling
- Discreet, judgment-free representation
Counties We Serve
At The Lawrence Law Firm, our priority is providing strong defense to clients accused of unlawful sexual contact throughout Colorado. Each county has its own prosecutors, judges, and courtroom procedures, making local knowledge essential. Our experienced unlawful sexual contact defense attorney represents clients in:
- Arapahoe County – Cases are heard at the Arapahoe County Justice Center in Centennial.
- Adams County – Representation for cases filed in the Adams County Justice Center in Brighton.
- Denver County – Defense for clients appearing at the Lindsey-Flanigan Courthouse in Denver.
- Douglas County – Cases handled at the Douglas County Justice Center in Castle Rock.
- Jefferson County – Representation at the Jefferson County Courts in Golden.
No matter where your case is filed, our team is prepared to navigate the unique challenges of each court system and fight for your rights at every stage.
Speak With An Unlawful Sexual Contact Defense Lawyer Today
If you’ve been charged with unlawful sexual contact in Aurora, Denver, or the surrounding metro area, you need legal help immediately. The sooner you call, the better your chances of avoiding jail, registration, or a permanent criminal record.
Schedule your free, confidential consultation today.
At The Lawrence Law Firm, we’ll take the time to listen, explain your rights, and begin building your defense.
Unlawful Sexual Contact Defense Attorney Available
Contact Information
Address
2821 S. Parker Rd. Suite 865 Aurora, CO 80014
Contact
lain@coloradodefenders.com Ph: 720-369-4929
Hours
Monday-Friday: 8 am - 6 pm Weekends and Afterhours By Appointment