Sexual Exploitation of a Vulnerable Adult
Being charged with the sexual exploitation of an adult with disabilities or a vulnerable elderly individual can profoundly affect your reputation. If you, a family member or loved one has been charged with crimes against a protected person in Utah, it is crucial that you seek immediate representation by an experienced, sex crime defense lawyer to help determine your legal options.
For a free, no-obligation consultation, contact Wasatch Defense Attorneys today at (801) 459-8909. We have successfully handled hundreds of jury trials and won numerous sex crime acquittals in Utah.
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 Sexual Exploitation of a Vulnerable Adult in Utah?
A vulnerable adult is defined as a protected person who is 18 years of age or older with a mental or physical impairment or an elderly individual 65 years of age or older with a functional, mental or physical impairment that hinders self-care. Utah criminal code 76-5b-2-202 states that sexual exploitation of a vulnerable adult is charged as a third-degree felony due to the fact that a vulnerable adult lacks the capacity to consent in the production, possession or distribution of vulnerable adult pornography. Penalties for someone convicted of sexual exploitation of a vulnerable adult are fines up to $5,000, up to five years in prison and registering as a sex offender.
Who is Considered a Vulnerable Adult?
In the state of Utah, a vulnerable adult is an individual, at least 18 years old, who is unable to care for his or her self because of a physical or mental disability. Senior citizens 65 years of age or older who suffer from a physical, mental or functional impairment that results in assisted care are also considered vulnerable adults. Vulnerable adults lack the capacity to consent or sufficiently understand decisions or consequences due to impairment as outlined below:
- Developmental Disability
- Mental Illness
- Organic Brain Disorder
- Physical Illness
- Physical Disability
- Chronic Intoxication or Drug Use
- Short-Term Memory Loss
- Other Impairments
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.