Incest Defense Lawyer in Utah
Accusations of incest should be taken seriously and are best handled in consultation with an experienced incest defense lawyer. In mounting a proper defense, it is crucial to understand the proper definition of the charges, the legal ramifications in Utah, and what the law says about consent and responsibility. Consult with a skilled sex crime defense lawyer – and keep in mind the prosecution has the burden of proof in all criminal cases and all charges must pass the test of reasonable doubt.
When confronted with accusations of incest, take that first critical step and call for a free, no-obligation consultation with Wasatch Defense Lawyers at (801) 459-8909.
We know what it takes to turn experience into results. Our attorneys understand how prosecutors think, how to challenge the evidence, and when to negotiate or take your case to trial. Every strategy is built around putting you in the strongest possible position.
But we don’t just know how to win—we have a track record that proves it. With more than 30 years of experience and thousands of clients represented, our results speak for themselves.
Proven Results. Relentless Defense.
A History of Successful Defenses
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Not Guilty State v. A - Not Guilty on Attempted Rape, Forcible Sex Abuse, Kidnapping, Assault
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Not Guilty State v. A - Not Guilty on Attempted Rape, Kidnapping & Assault
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Dismissed State v. F - Aggravated Sexual Assault, Aggravated Kidnapping Dismissed
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Dismissed State v. F - DV & Aggravated Assault Charges Dismissed
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Dismissed State v. F - Protective Order Violation Charges Dismissed
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Dismissed State v. F - Violation of Protective Order Dismissed
What is Incest?
Incest is defined as having a sexual relationship with a non-spousal family member, which is against the law in the United States. In some cases, a direct relationship must be established when the sexual relationship may not fit the definition of “family”. The term family member does not apply strictly to blood relations. Incest laws can be applied in cases of the family by adoption, by marriage, and even foster families.
Every state in the US considers family or close blood relations as parents, children, grandparents, aunts, and uncles. Family-like situations (such as the live-in boyfriend of the parent), second cousins, or other distant family relationships may not be considered family.
Punishment for Incest in Utah
It is incumbent upon the Judge presiding over a case of incest to determine the actual penalty for someone convicted of incest. In the state of Utah, the punishment for incest (which is defined as a third-degree felony offense), specifies a term of 5 years maximum in prison and/or a maximum fine of $5,000.
Other penalties may also be enforced if convicted of incest. These may include registration as a sex offender, being forcibly separated from the family, and the possibility of the household being declared unfit for a minor. In the latter instance, the underaged victim may be removed from the home and placed in foster care. Finally, a conviction of incest can attach a negative stigma to a defendant’s reputation.
Incest charges are sometimes coupled with other unlawful sexual violations. Prosecutors may attempt to attach charges of statutory rape or child abuse to the initial charge of incest. Additionally, if a prosecutor is finding it difficult to establish a strong familial correlation, they may seek other avenues in which to mount charges, such as rape, lewd acts, or molestation.
Why Choose Wasatch Defense Lawyers
Hire at Team You Can Count On
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Largest Criminal Defense Team in the History of the State
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100+ Years of Combined Criminal Defense Experience
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Fewer than 1% of its clients have been sent to prison
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Over 650 Trials Handled
our winning strategy
4 Steps to a Positive Outcome
Every case is different. At Wasatch Defense Lawyers, we thoroughly investigate the facts, examine the evidence, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Our attorneys evaluate every available option, from challenging improper procedures and suppressing evidence to negotiating reduced charges or preparing for trial. With decades of combined experience and hundreds of trials, we approach each case strategically and aggressively. Whether pursuing dismissal, reduced charges, or a favorable trial outcome, we build a defense focused on protecting your rights, freedom, and future.
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1Laying the GroundworkWe prepare before the fight begins. Decades of experience, deep legal knowledge, and strong relationships with prosecutors and judges give us the foundation to build a smarter, more targeted defense.
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2Discussing The DetailsEvery detail matters. We dig deep into your case, examining reports, records, evidence, and your side of the story to uncover the facts that can shape your defense.
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3Building Your CaseWe challenge what the prosecution thinks it knows. We scrutinize the evidence, investigate police procedures, expose weaknesses, and develop a defense strategy built specifically for your case.
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4Obtaining Positive ResultsWe pursue the outcome that puts you in the strongest position. Whether through aggressive negotiation or a meticulously prepared trial defense, we fight to reduce charges, protect your future, and achieve the best result possible.