Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyer in Utah
Protecting your rights across Salt Lake City and throughout Utah.
If you or a loved one is facing sexual abuse charges in Utah, it is essential to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. A sexual abuse conviction can mean harsh prison sentences, community service, rehabilitation programs, and steep fines. Beyond that, it can permanently change your life – forcing registration as a sex offender, creating public records that are easily found, and damaging your reputation and career.
Even a false accusation can spiral into long legal battles with devastating consequences. At Wasatch Defense Lawyers, we fight to protect your rights and give you the strongest defense possible. From seeking dismissals to negotiating reduced charges, we are ready to explore every option in your favor. Contact us for a FREE case review.
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 the Difference Between Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault?
Sexual abuse and sexual assault are distinct offenses under Utah law, each defined by specific statutes and legal elements.
- Sexual Abuse generally involves non-consensual sexual contact that does not rise to the level of rape or attempted rape. Under Utah law, this includes offenses such as sexual abuse of a minor (§ 76-5-405) and sexual abuse of a child (§ 76-5-406). These charges typically involve unlawful touching of intimate body parts—either directly or through clothing—or causing a minor to engage in such contact. Unlike common misconceptions, sexual abuse is not limited to situations involving caregivers or authority figures.
- Sexual Assault is often used to describe more severe offenses involving forced or non-consensual sexual acts, including rape or attempted rape. Under Utah law, this conduct is addressed in statutes such as rape (§ 76-5-404). These cases may involve force, coercion, or situations where the victim is unable to consent. Penalties are typically more severe due to the nature of the offense.
While both charges are serious and carry significant consequences, the key differences lie in the type of conduct involved and the applicable legal definitions under Utah law. An experienced defense attorney can evaluate the specific allegations and determine how the law applies to your case.
Learn more about related offenses: Grievous sexual offenses in Utah.
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.