America is the land of the free, but that doesn’t mean there are no rules. Now, generally speaking, you can date anyone you want, but there are a few sexual relationships that are illegal in the eyes of the law. With that being said, let’s identify some of the romances that are illegal in Colorado.
Age of Consent in Colorado
The age of consent is 17 in Colorado, which means most relationships between people who are older than 17 and those under 17 are illegal. However, there are some exceptions.
Exceptions to Colorado’s age of consent rule stem from a “Romeo & Juliet” exemption. The Romeo & Juliet exemption states that a minor 14 or younger can have consensual sex with a defendant who is three or fewer years older than the minor. Therefore, a 17-year-old can have a relationship with a 14-year-old, a 13-year-old can have a relationship with a 16-year-old, and so on.
Additionally, a 15 or 16-year-old minor can have consensual sex with someone who is nine or fewer years older. Therefore, a 15-year-old can have a relationship with a 24-year-old.
While age is a big determiner of illegal relationships in Colorado, another determiner is a couple’s professional relationship.
Illegal Professional Relationships
Certain romances are unlawful based on the relationship of the couple. For example, a psychotherapist cannot have a romantic relationship with his or her clients, even if the clients are willing participants.
Additionally, someone who is in a “position of trust” cannot have relations with persons under their trust if they are under 18-years-old. Therefore, high school teachers, coaches, mentors, and other vocations where someone is in a position of trust over people cannot have relations with those people if they are under 18.
Have You Been Accused of an Improper Relationship?
If you or a loved one has been arrested for any reason or accused of an illegal sexual relationship, it is crucial to exercise your right to legal representation. An experienced Denver sex crime attorney can provide the necessary legal guidance and support. For specialized assistance, consider contacting the Law Office of Kevin Cahill, where you can discuss the charges levied against you with a Denver rape and sexual assault lawyer.
Call (720) 445-9887 now for a free consultation for your case!