Sex Crime Defense Lawyers in Salt Lake City, Utah

If you’ve been accused of a sex crime in Utah, your future is on the line. Wasatch Defense Lawyers is here to help. Based in Salt Lake City and defending clients throughout the Wasatch Front and all of Utah, we offer strategic, trial-tested legal defense. Our award-winning team has handled over 650 jury trials and knows exactly how to defend against life-changing accusations. We treat every client with respect, discretion, and urgency.

Learn more about what to expect during your first meeting with a sexual crime lawyer.

What Is a Sex Crime in Utah?

Sex crimes in Utah include a wide variety of offenses, ranging from non-consensual acts to internet-based allegations. Understanding these charges is crucial to building a solid defense. Common charges include:

Even a simple accusation can lead to arrest, prosecution, and public shaming. Our legal team will explain your rights, investigate the facts, and start building your defense immediately.

If you’ve been falsely accused of a sexual crime in Utah, we can help protect your rights.

Common Sex Crime Charges We Defend

We also help clients accused of failing to register as sex offenders or facing registry-related complications.

Explore your options for removal from the Utah sex offender registry.

Penalties for Sex Crime Convictions

A conviction can lead to:

1. 5 years to life in prison

2. Mandatory sex offender registration (10 years to life)

3. Permanent criminal record

4. Loss of employment, housing, and reputation

5. Ineligibility for professional licenses

We fight hard to avoid convictions, reduce charges, and seek dismissal or alternative sentencing options.

Learn about alternatives to prison time for Utah sex crime conviction.

To understand registration requirements in Utah, visit the Utah Sex and Kidnap Offender Registry Law.

Why Waiting Costs More Than You Think

Every hour you wait gives prosecutors time to build their case. Witnesses disappear. Evidence fades. And your ability to defend yourself shrinks.

Being proactive is critical. Whether you’re under investigation or already charged, hiring an experienced sex crimes attorney immediately gives you the best chance at protecting your future.

Understand why you absolutely need a lawyer for sex crime charges.

Why Choose Wasatch Defense Lawyers?

Utah’s Premier Criminal Defense Firm

1. 650+ Jury Trials Across Utah

2. Available 24/7 for Emergencies

3. Former Prosecutors On Staff

4. Free, Confidential Consultations

5. Award-Winning Defense Team

6. Most 5-Star Google Reviews of Any Utah Criminal Defense Firm

Discover our winning strategy and what makes us different.

Our Strategic Defense Approach

We tailor every case to the unique facts and goals of our clients:

1. Challenge law enforcement procedure

2. Suppress illegally obtained evidence

3. Expose false allegations or motives

4. Build a timeline of your innocence

5. Leverage expert witnesses and psychological evaluations

You’ll always know what we’re doing and why.

Learn how we handle and complex sex crime defenses.

Client Testimonials

Very positive, productive meeting, which was extremely valuable - very helpful and useful information. Highly professional staff. They receive my wholehearted recommendation.

Rob Speaker

21:14 30 Jun 25

A place of great respect. They were very courteous and answered my questions to my satisfaction

Rod Mueller

22:46 16 Jun 25

Wasatch defense lawyers are the best representation you will find. Reed, Scott, Lane, and Victoria are an incredible team that ensures every aspect of your case is done with the upmost care & detailed precision. They have everything covered from start to finish and never leave you feeling alone. They maintain excellent communication that is vital to reassure and instruct you on your case, which gives you the confidence needed at the most important time of your life. Highly recommend and couldn’t be happier with not only the outcome but the entire process. THANK YOU WASATCH DEFENSE LAWYERS for coming to the rescue and REED for handling so much!

Tiffany

20:40 13 Jun 25

Since the moment I met with the fine people at Wasatch Defense Lawyer, they have treated me with dignity and respect. Big shoutout to Franklin, Lane and Mark! Thank you for your support and help through a difficult process.

Kelli Rexford

16:47 10 Jun 25

Great team! Very professional and thorough. Got my case dismissed rather than going to trial! Well worth it if you value your life or time

John

13:10 10 Jun 25

I used this group when I got very surprising news I had a legal issue. I met with Lane Clark who made me feel like I was very important and handled my case with care and getting me with an awesome Defense Attorney in Beau Blakely.From the first phone call with Lane and then meeting him in his office, he made me feel very important and that I was definitely with right group.Between Lane and his team and working closely with Beau Blakely, my case was handled professionally and with confidence that my case would be dismissed. They said they felt this should be the only outcome and Beau made this to be true.I can’t recommend Wasatch Defense and Lane and Beau enough. I am forever grateful for them

Kerry Hyland

18:02 04 Jun 25

From the moment I talked with them they assured me that they’d do everything possible get me out of my situation with as little damage possible. Their expertise and confidence made a potentially stressful situation more manageable, I am truly grateful to their assistance and would them to anyone in need of legal support.

Alex Granda

15:43 21 May 25

Scott Wilding was very knowledgeable and managed to keep me calm during this legal process. Professional and competent, would recommend!

Kevin Buttars

00:24 20 May 25

Wasatch Defense is Highly Recommended! They are very professional, helpful & knowledgeable in so many areas. Lane has been a delight to work with. He is “on it” every time we have a question or concern. Mark Brian is very attentive to his clients & their concerns & Mark is an excellent attorney! All phone calls or texts are ALWAYS answered in a very timely manner. If you need help with Criminal Defense in or around Salt Lake City, I would absolutely recommend this law firm!JUST A FOLLOW UP a few years later. My son has told me how secure & safe he felt with this team! We worked mostly with Mark Brian and Lane & they were incredible at returning phone calls, getting the job done & making us all feel at Ease!!

Kathy Keltner

06:34 19 May 25

Seems like good people work here, they helped me figure out I was getting scammed, and possibly saved my job. All without me paying them anything! Thanks guys !!

Josh Karrick

21:26 27 Mar 25

Lane and Paul were amazing. They responded to me on a SUNDAY night at 7:30 pm and attended court for my son at 8:45 am the next day. They are fast to respond. Extremely caring. They go above and beyond. They understand kids and how they are feeling. 10000%. Recommend.

Shannon Bacelis

23:54 19 Mar 25

I highly recommend Wasatch Defense. The entire team genuinely cares about their clients, taking the time to understand every detail and provide expert guidance. Their professionalism, dedication, and expertise are unmatched. They go above and beyond to ensure the best possible outcome, and their communication throughout the process is outstanding. If you're looking for a law firm that is compassionate, knowledgeable, and truly fights for you, Wasatch Defense Lawyers is the best choice.

Frances Helsten

14:50 14 Mar 25

Attorney Darrell York was very kind and helpful. Highly recommend!

Susan Welland

23:56 13 Mar 25

I called in today to ask some questions and Wasatch defense lawyers was not only professional and knowledgeable but also incredibly empathetic. They took the time to listen, understand my concerns, and provide reassurance throughout the process. Highly recommend Wasatch defense lawyers!

Ajay Gaucin

21:04 13 Mar 25

The team was amazing to work with! They were so informative and walked me through the process.

Toshi Hunter

20:22 13 Mar 25

I am incredibly grateful to Wasatch Defense Lawyers for their outstanding service. They played a crucial role in helping my son. From the start, their team was diligent and thorough in their pursuit of justice, demonstrating a deep understanding of the legal system and a strong commitment to their clients. They created a strategic plan of attack and provided us with clear and concise guidance throughout the entire process. Their professionalism, dedication, and support made a difficult situation much more manageable. I highly recommend Wasatch Defense Lawyers to anyone in need of exceptional legal representation.

Josh McPherron

13:55 07 Feb 25

Wasatch Defense Lawyers has been very helpful to me. I was in the wrong place at the wrong time, and got caught up in a serious criminal investigation. Never having been in a situation like this ever before, it was extremely stressful. Lane at Wasatch Defense Lawyers helped me get through it successfully. I highly recommend them!

Jack Baumann

00:57 22 Jan 25

When my son got tangled up in a SLC PD investigation I knew my family needed help. I put our trust in Wasatch Defense Lawyers. They immediately jumped into action, working to assess the situation, and quickly providing guidance. Their professionalism and knowledge helped to assure me that things were under control. I’m very grateful that, with the help of Wasatch Defense Lawyers, my son has been cleared of the investigation.

Steve Baumann

00:46 22 Jan 25

Dataexpungecom was a valuable resource for finding a skilled criminal lawyer. Their professionalism and intelligence were evident throughout the process, leading to a positive experience. It's crucial to have a strong legal advocate, and I found that in their services.

globex papers

14:50 16 Jan 25

EVERYTHING... IS THE ONLY WORD TO DESCRIBE THIS LAW FIRM!They are everything to my family and myself!!! From the very first phone call to them, Lane and Paul were there for us! They stayed by our side through each and every step of the court process before the court process had even actually begun. They beat my criminal case, were able to get me home with my family and helped me to stay with my family!Lane was instantly so supportive and positive for my husband and myself! Ensuring us that it may take time but that we would get through this all. He really helped us to believe that and you could tell he genuinely cares.Paul was so genuine and positive from the first time we met. He worked so hard on my case, jumped through many hoops, faught tirelessly to beat my case, walked me through each process and gave the best advice throughout the entirety of the processes. Not to mention was very much on top of all information, laws and processes in defending my case. I can't thank Paul enough for everything!They helped us to achieve the very best possibility and outcome, we could have only wished for and WE GOT IT!!! They never hesitate to reach out and follow up with you, they are prompt and efficient!!! I can truly say... If you're in need of an attorney who will truly fight for you, believe in you, support you and your loved ones through the difficulties we all face in life for various reasons... Wasatch Defense Attorneys is where you want to go!!!Not only do I recommend them...I have the fullest of intentions to use them in the near future to make a long time coming family case a reality for us! I believe whole hearted that there is not another firm that I would ever entrust with any matter I may come across in life again!Thank you Wasatch Defense Attorneys, Paul Johnson and Lane!!! You did everything and beyond what you told us you would do! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for keeping our family together and being part of moving us into such a positive direction in our lives! We look forward to working with you again!

Alyxandra Grimsdell

22:48 15 Jan 25

Highly recommend this group if you’ve been involved in a gun-related legal issue! I had an accidental incident during a hunting trip, and they successfully got my case dismissed. As a CCW holder, I deeply appreciated their expertise and dedication. Our attorney, Scott, was outstanding—he fought hard for me in court and truly understood the nuances of gun laws. When you work with them, be sure to ask any questions you have; they are true experts in their field and will fight tirelessly on your behalf.

Spencer Welch

14:54 08 Jan 25

Lane and his team, I've never met a better one and hope I never have to. They are hardworking and dedicated at what they do. They are brutally honest, no beating around bush or gimmicks which I genuinely liked. Best of all, they will give you results! Thank you for everything!!!

Chad Andersen

20:39 01 Jan 25

Lane and his team are amazing! They work their hardest to ensure that their clients are represented fairly.

Lori Andersen

20:14 01 Jan 25

I want to say that what your firm did for my son was beyond amazing.He lost so much of his life over one false accusation that turned his life into a nightmare for 5 years.He was put into jail, and then on an ankle monitor for a long time. He lost his job that really put him into a financial bind.but anytime that he felt like giving up he would read over your reviews which gave him reassurance that you guys would pull through for him. Or he would call and talk to someone regarding his case and again got the reassurance that kept him fighting. My son didn't deserve all that he had to endure but he kept the fight and so did your firm.Your Attorney's brought in many professionals who testified in his behalf and who were top notch in their field of expertise.I was so glad that he took his case to jury trial so that all could be revealed in truth. He was able to prove his innocents and now with the not guilty verdict my son can enjoy the best Christmas/ Birthday ever in his life. He gets to be the best father to my wonderful granddaughter and an awesome provider for his family. He got his life back and can finally become the successful man I knew he would always become.Thank you from the most inner side of my heart and hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and may your New year bring many more successful wins to many others needing your guidance and expertise so that they can also gain their life back. Your firm was totally amazing. I would definitely recommend your firm to anyone needing a defense lawyer.

moonpinnday powerson

08:10 22 Dec 24

5 stars isn’t enough! I was accused of one of the worst things you could imagine and when I walked into their office I immediately felt at peace. Not one person in their office judged me and better yet they believed in me. I’ve been dealing with my allegation for five years. I went in within a week of being accused. The next two years I hadn’t heard a thing. Then I was charged. Lane remembered everything about my case right away, offered me support and the best advice possible. Lane was my literal savior many times. Lane was always quick to answer my calls and texts and offered so much reassurance and guidance. Even when I was beyond emotional he was able to talk me off the ledge. Paul Johnson was instrumental in getting me out of jail when I was a no bond hold. Craig Chlarson attended my civil hearing and couldn’t believe what they were trying to do to me. I spent 447 days on an ankle monitor with house arrest. Then Lane put Jennie Wingad and Beau Blackley on my case. Beau quickly fought to get the ankle monitor removed. Despite a hard fight from the other parties, we won that battle. From then on I knew I was in the right hands. We fought for two more years before the state was ready for trial. Leading up to trial the prosecutor offered me a terrible plea deal. I denied it and went in fighting. Lane reassured me once again. Beau and Jennie prepped my case and brought in many expert witnesses. They poked so many holes in the states case. After a four day grueling trial over one charge. I can finally say I WON!! I get my life back! I couldn’t recommend Wasatch Defense Lawyers enough. I personally used these reviews to get me through the dark days. I used these reviews to find them. I hope that if anyone is unfortunate enough to be in my situation that you give Wasatch Defense Lawyers your case. You will not regret it.I want to give a special thank you to Lane Clark, Scot Wilding, Paul Johnson, Beau Blackley, Jennie Wingad and Stephen Florence. You all have saved my life and I will forever be thankful!

James P

17:00 21 Dec 24

Amazing, amazing, amazing! Thank you guys so much for all your did for our family. We are very happy with the results and outcome of a case we were dealing with. Wasatch defense was there for us every step of the way and it was more than just doing business. We can't thank you guys enough for the outcome we received in our trial! 10/10 recommend ❤️

Shelby H.

16:44 21 Dec 24

If you're looking for an amazing law firm Wasatch Defense Lawyers is your team! And I mean TEAM! I had 6 very serious charges on me that would have ruined my life for the rest of it! After my wife and I hired them they immediately went to work for me. All but 1 small charge was dropped and a couple classes. My attorney Tyler Ayers was absolutely amazing today!! From day one I told Lane Clark , and soon Tyler that I wanted to take it all the way and we did! Tyler went in and absolutely chewed the prosecuting attorney up!! Long happy story short, hire this team your money will not be wasted!! Thank you again Wasatch Defense Lawyers for all you hard work!

Cortley Maughan

02:48 13 Dec 24

By far the BEST law firm you could ever have on your side. I would definitely recommend them to EVERYONE. Tyler Ayres was our lawyer and he did an amazing job from start to finish. Absolutely appreciate everything they have done for us.

Sierria Ramey

02:35 13 Dec 24

Your law office defended my son today(12/12/24) Thank you for the great job you did in his defense! My biggest fear was he wouldn't walk back in the same door he walked out of this morning! My momma heart thanks you!❤️

Gayle Maughan

02:29 13 Dec 24

My name is Kay Young, Jarad Youngs mother, I think that Scott Wilding did an amazing job with the defense for my son. I'm leaving a five star review because he was really helpful and answered all our questions. I would recommend your company to anyone.

Kay Young

17:28 10 Dec 24

Scott Wilding was my attorney and I think that he did a hell of a job on my defense and kept me out of prison. I am leaving a five star review for your company and would recommend you to anyone. Thank You so much 😊

Jarad Young

17:06 10 Dec 24

Scott was so great to work with. He always took the time to answers any questions I had.

Mary Drakos

15:39 06 Dec 24

They were able to get us in quickly. They demonstrated extensive subject matter knowledge and were able to resolve our concerns and most of our problems almost immediately during the consultation. We knew we were in good hands. Highly recommend.

Levi Slade

16:07 02 Dec 24

This was a great team of Attorneys, especially Tyler Ayers who assisted me with my case. What could have been a horrible outcome ended up being a fair resolution between myself and the City. Thank you, Tyler!

M Ramon

17:03 23 Nov 24

where do i begin...from day one wdl has worked so hard and gone above and beyond to go what is best for me. Lane is super attentive and always there to alleviate any worries or stress. I genuinely could not ask for better support and representation. They are the BEST!!!

Mindy Tanner

23:58 09 Nov 24

These guys were the most intelligent and helpful lawyers I’ve spoken with, that’s after searching for lawyers for months. If you are looking for a lawyer to get you the best bang for your buck call these guys

Mike Coltrin

05:22 06 Nov 24

Jen, Lane, and the rest of the team went out of their way to help us out in an urgent matter. All of the staff are professional, understanding, and pay attention to even the most minute details. We are so appreciative-Thanks everyone!

Scott Snyder

14:53 22 Oct 24

Scott Wilding - this man goes far above and beyond! We were blessed to have this professional represent us - he was skillful in his practice and provided us with expertise advice for the entire duration of the case which lasted over 1.5 years! This man stood by us and brought us optimum results! Thank you, Scott Wilding!!

Neelu Mellard

01:47 16 Oct 24

wasatch defenses lawyers went above and beyond and the whole practice. very professional and upfront and stayed on top of things communicating. wasatch defense lawyers had all the charges i was facing dismissed

Lance Davis

23:50 12 Oct 24

I’m very grateful to have had Wasatch Defense Lawyers at my corner. From the beginning speaking with Lane, I felt a relief of anxiety and stress from my case. Lane as well as the Wasatch defense team helped every step of the way, truly making you feel at ease with them taking care of you and getting you the greatest results. If anyone ever is in the need for justice and wants to feel confident, yet a sense of peace of mind from their case. I definitely 💯 recommend “Wasatch Defense Lawyers”

Steven Vasquez

05:27 26 Sep 24

I was driving home to Albuquerque, NM from visiting my kids in Seattle, WA for the holidays.I was pulled over for speeding on I-84 S between Tremonton & Brigham City on 12/31/2023.During the stop, the highway patrol searched my vehicle, and found a half smoked Cannabis joint I had purchased at a dispensary in Seattle, and paraphernalia.The highway patrol decided to make the assumption that I must be under the influence of cannabis merely because I had it in my possession, so they tried to charge me with a 3rd Deg Felony DUI.I bonded out of jail the day after, and made my way back to My home in New Mexico. As soon as I got home, I started researching Utah Law firms that specialize in defense against this type of situation. I came across Wasatch Defense through a Google search, and they seemed to have a lot of positive client reviews. I contacted them, and they got me connected with attorney Scott Wilding. He got to work on My case, and was very thorough with his research. He gathered all of the available evidence, and consulted with many experts about My case. The preliminary hearings took a while to get through due to my living outside of Utah which required WebEx sessions. After Scott's careful investigation of the police video he obtained, he was finally able to convince the state attorney that their evidence was too weak to effectively prosecute the case. The state attorney agreed, and moved to dismiss the case entirely! It had been a great source of stress this entire year, but Scott did a exemplary job defending me. I shutter to think how a conviction for the charge would have destroyed my life and ability to find future employment, but Scott saved me from that fate.I would definitely recommend Scott Wilding and Wasatch Defense to anyone faced with a similar situation as mine. They did their job VERY WELL, and I owe them my sincerest gratitude ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Shawn TribbleAlbuquerque, NM

Shawn Tribble

21:13 23 Sep 24

The lawyers of wasatch defense are family working together always,Scott is amazing hardworking,Caring,dedicated and firm in his words. Scott really fight for you and gets the best deal,I have a memory that I will keep for life of him.he gave me the biggest sincere hug ever when my son got released then I knew they really care for there clients just by that special hug, Veronica very helpful and Lane sweet.kind, generous and sympathetic.

Rosalia Arias

20:07 11 Sep 24

FAQs

What if I’m falsely accused?

False accusations are more common than people think. We build evidence-based defenses to dismantle false claims.

Can charges be dropped?

Yes. We’ve had cases dismissed pre-trial and charges reduced through aggressive negotiation or constitutional challenges.

Do I have to register as a sex offender?

If convicted of certain crimes, yes. We fight hard to prevent that outcome or seek post-conviction relief when possible..

Do you take cases across Utah?

Yes. We represent clients in Salt Lake City, Provo, Ogden, Logan, St. George, and all courts in Utah..

How much does it cost?

We offer free consultations and flexible payment plans based on case complexity.

Read our full Utah Criminal Defense FAQ for more insight.

 

Service Area & Contact Info

⇒ Proudly defending Salt Lake City

⇒ Utah County

⇒ Weber County

⇒ Davis County and communities throughout Utah.

 

Accused of a Sex Crime in Utah? Protect Your Future Now.

Speak with a top-rated defense lawyer today. Calls are 100% confidential.

Don’t wait for things to get worse. Whether you’re searching for a sex crimes attorney, need a sex crimes defense lawyer, or want the best defense attorney for sex crimes in Utah, Wasatch Defense Lawyers is ready to help. Our experienced team understands the high stakes and will fight relentlessly for your rights and reputation. Schedule a free case review now and find out why we’re trusted across Utah for expert legal defense.

Free Case Evaluation

Cities We Service

• North Salt Lake
• Salt Lake City
• South Salt Lake
• Centerville
• Bountiful
• West Bountiful
• Woods Cross
• Millcreek
• Murray
• Midvale
• West Valley City
• West Jordan
• Taylorsville
• Kearns
• Holladay
• Sandy
• Draper
• Cottonwood Heights