Colorado Springs Juvenile Sex Crime Defense Attorneys
Was Your Child Accused of a Sex Crime?
Learned behavior, or those actions that we are taught are permissible, should never be considered representative of criminal intentions. In Colorado, juvenile sex crimes are a particularly sensitive issue, especially given the fact that these crimes are more or less cries for help, cries that should hardly be considered criminal in nature.
As consequence, a juvenile charged with a sex crime needs help, not punishment. In the state's juvenile justice system, sex crimes need to be given the proper examination they deserve, and the best person to ensure this is an experienced juvenile defense attorney.
What Behaviors Are Involved in a Sex Crime?
Sex crimes involve behaviors that range greatly in terms of severity. For instance, a juvenile may be responsible for making obscene phone calls, an act that in and of itself is certainly wrong but should be looked at as little more than an unfortunate childhood prank that hardly represents criminal behavior. Some juvenile sex crimes, however, are more serious, and represent behavior that is learned, regardless of whether that behavior is correct. That is, if a juvenile chooses to sexually harass another individual, then such action may indicate that the juvenile is experiencing or has experienced similar types of behavior in his or her own life. Therefore, the juvenile may not necessarily think that such behavior is entirely inappropriate and may have actually been conditioned to believe that the action is acceptable.
Ultimately, if a juvenile is accused of committing a sex crime, it needs to be determined why the act was committed, why the juvenile considered it acceptable (or at least lawful) to commit the crime in the first place, and where such behavior was learned. These are issues that require help and should not be viewed by the Colorado juvenile court system as severely punishable offenses in the same manner that Colorado's justice system would consider them if committed by an adult.
What Are Types of Juvenile Sex Crimes?
As our society becomes more sexually permissive and sexual messages become more prevalent in media, music, and movies, more teens are being charged with sex offenses today. Juvenile sex crime charges include:
- Sexual assault
- Distributing or receiving pornography (after texting explicit photos)
- Indecent liberties
- Voyeurism
- Statutory rape
- Date rape
- Child molestation
- Sexual misconduct with a minor
- Prostitution or solicitation
Penalties in Colorado for Sex Crimes Committed by Juveniles
Generally, juveniles convicted of sex crimes are treated less harshly than adults in Colorado. However, these charges are very serious. Consequences of a conviction may include:
- Undergoing Colorado Juvenile Sex Offender Management Board (SOMB) treatment
- Sex offender probation
- Sex offender registration
Teens convicted of juvenile sex offenses may potentially face jail sentences. The Department of Youth Corrections can hold them until they reach the age of 21.
How Can Sex Crime Charges Impact Juveniles Now, and In the Future?
The type of plea agreement or conviction the child receives can impact the rest of his or her life. Some convictions are permanent, while others are temporary. Some convictions require only temporary registration, while for others it must be lengthy. The child can be labeled as a sex offender by the state and have freedoms taken away.
The Rights of the Accused
The implications are serious for juveniles charged with sex crimes. In addition to other severe consequences, a conviction could leave the child with a permanent criminal record and significantly impact future education and career opportunities. Minors accused of sex offenses have a right to a strong defense to protect their futures.
False Accusations of Sex Crimes Against Juveniles
When a juvenile is accused of a sex crime, it may be based on false allegations. These accusations are sometimes made by other children seeking revenge or attention, without any evidence to back them up. For your child’s protection, it is crucial to speak with an experienced Colorado Springs criminal defense attorney before meeting with the police. At The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., we understand the system, and we will use our knowledge, skills, and resources to fight for the best outcome for your child.
Contact The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. for Legal Help in Colorado Springs
If your juvenile has been charged with a sex crime, the most critical issue at hand should be why he or she made the decision to commit the act, or which past interactions may have led to the sex crime in the first place. At The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., Colorado Springs juvenile criminal defense attorney Timothy Bussey has represented a large number of juveniles who have been arrested for sex crimes, and he understands the way the juvenile justice system works. In order to protect your child's rights, please contact us at (719) 453-1599 for information and a free consultation of your juvenile's case.
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