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.

What is the Difference Between Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault?

Sexual abuse and sexual assault are distinct charges in Utah, though both are serious.

1. Sexual Abuse: Occurs when an abuser is in a guardianship or caregiving role. They exploit trust to pressure or force a victim into sexual activity. In adults, this most often happens in medical centers or nursing facilities. Among children, abusers are often family members, teachers, or guardians.
2. Sexual Assault: Involves violent, forced, or threatening acts of sexual behavior. These cases are typically marked by trauma and sometimes life-threatening violence.

Learn more about related offenses: Grievous sexual offenses in Utah.

What is Forcible Sexual Abuse?

Forcible sexual abuse occurs when someone 14 years or older is touched or caressed on the breasts, buttocks, or genitalia with intent to arouse, gratify, or inflict pain – without consent.

1. Classified as a 2nd-degree felony: punishable by 1–15 years in prison.
2. If bodily injury occurs, it can become a 1st-degree felony with sentences ranging from 15 years to life.
3. In aggravated cases, terms may include 6 years to life or 10 years to life.

See also: DNA testing in sex crimes and how evidence impacts these cases.

What is Child Sexual Abuse?

Child sexual abuse occurs when someone touches a child’s genitals, breasts, or buttocks with intent to arouse or cause pain. Even if the child “appeared to participate,” Utah law treats all individuals under 18 as unable to consent.

1. Statutory Rule: Any sexual activity with a child under 18 is a crime, regardless of consent.
2. Charges range in severity, often bringing lifelong sex offender registry requirements.

Related content: Exposing a minor to pornography in Utah and manufacturing child pornography are separate but connected charges that also carry severe penalties.

Aggravated Sexual Abuse

Aggravated sexual abuse is a more severe charge, often involving violence, manipulation, or repeat offenses. Defendants can face first-degree felony charges if aggravating factors apply, such as:

1. Use of a weapon
2. Stranger grooming a child for exploitation
3. Forcing a child into pornography
4. Multiple victims or repeat abuse
5. Position of trust (teacher, guardian, caregiver)
6. Penetration, bodily injury, or human trafficking involvement

Penalties include:

1. 15 years to life in prison
2. Life without parole for prior offenders or cases involving bodily harm

Learn more: Penalties for sex offenses in Utah.

Why Ignoring Charges Costs More Than You Think

Even if you believe the allegations are false, failing to act quickly is a mistake. Prosecutors in Utah take sex crimes seriously, and without a strong defense, you may face:

1. Permanent sex offender registry
2. Mandatory prison time
3. Loss of employment and reputation
4. Financial hardship from fines and court costs

Every day you wait makes it harder to build a strong defense. Acting immediately can change the outcome of your case.

How We Protect Our Clients

✔️ Certified Experts – Utah Criminal Defense Bar Certified attorneys with decades of trial experience.

✔️ Aggressive Strategies – We challenge evidence, expose weaknesses, and fight for your rights at every stage.

✔️ Client-Focused Defense – No case is the same. We listen, investigate, and build a defense tailored to you.

✔️ Proven Track Record – Over 650 trials and more 5-star reviews than any other Utah defense firm.

What Our Clients Say About Us

The team at Wasatch Defense are great. I recommend them. After being falsely accused, they took my case very seriously and facilitated the right people to help me with every step. Paying a flat fee for the entire case helped me manage the financial burden with complete clarity. We ended up with a not guilty verdict.

Andrew Verge

20:01 13 Nov 25

I can only give my highest praise and recommendations for Wasatch Defense Attorneys and their team. A special thanks to Lane Paralegal for all his help

Julie Rasmussen

01:58 11 Nov 25

My attorney was Scot wilding probably the best attorney I’ve had. Had trouble with this from before until I got assigned Scot really good guy and wants to help. Helped me a lot! Appreciate you Scot

Mote Tau

18:31 03 Nov 25

We were facing a family crisis when I contacted Wasatch Defense Attorneys. Lane responded immediately and guided us through an incredibly challenging situation. He and the entire team gave us peace of mind, assuring us that we were protected and that they would do everything possible to help. Thankfully, the case was resolved quickly, and I’m deeply grateful for the firm’s support and professionalism.

Jenn Wright

15:37 23 Oct 25

They go above and beyond. And always communicate with you.Well Done.Thank you.Mr. LITI

Orian belt We are committed to earth

18:02 17 Oct 25

Reed was a clear communicator, helpful, and when a mistake was made fixed the error. He understood the situation immediately and knew how to help. It was great working with him. Highly recommend.

Big Bad

00:33 03 Oct 25

Our lawyer, Reed, was amazing. He communicated well and helped us along this journey. Highly recommend.

Liz Nix

00:30 03 Oct 25

I was very grateful for the straight forward information we received. Lane was patient and kind, Darrell was blunt and direct. I LIKED THAT in this situation. I needed information/ education about what could happen, possible worst case scenarios, the law as it applied to us.

Michelle Dennis

02:38 30 Sep 25

These guys are awesome they helped me fast with my situation these guys are the best

Mal Jones

23:41 29 Sep 25

Very good at what they do and most importantly knowledgeable at every single thing that comes up. Very thankful and glad we were able to find them. Lane is very attentive and there to help answer all questions. More than please with their service. Would recommend to anyone.

Patricia Gomez

18:55 24 Sep 25

I went in for a free consult and couldn’t have been happier with the outcome. Very knowledgeable and honest, they really took the time to listen to my concerns and gave great advice. I will most definitely be using Wasatch Defense Layers.

Krystalyn Robinson

16:45 23 Sep 25

Amazing experience. Extremely helpful.

Evan Robinson

16:41 23 Sep 25

I appreciate all the support we had working with Layne. He is a very kind man. That helped us in our time of need. I would recommend them to family and friends. The team is very knowledgeable. With a wide umbrella of care and compassion.Thank you for everything.

Shelly Myrick

15:02 18 Sep 25

The Wasatch Defense Lawyers team has been amazing, especially Lane, paralegal; he has kept us in the loop on everything happening with the charges and the court. Anytime I text or call, he responds quickly and professionally. Wasatch Defense Lawyers are keeping our son—who was in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong people—out of prison, and setting him up so he can move forward in life and put this chapter behind him. 🙏🏼

Kim Hartman

14:24 18 Sep 25

I was impressed with the fact that they started on the case before we even hired them. Scott was very informative and gave us his cellphone number so we could call him anytime we needed and he always answered the phone.I was impressed in his compassion considering the situation. He was always very kind and nonjudgmental.He always had compliments about how he was doing. He worked hard for results.

Natalie Najera

17:09 17 Sep 25

Wasatch Defense Attorneys have been great. They have been helping my son with his case and are very professional and kind attorneys. Lane has been quite awesome and helpful. I recommend this firm to anyone and everyone.

April Stagg

14:33 16 Sep 25

Had some amazing help from these guys.

Douglas Gillespie

14:14 16 Sep 25

Super responsive and helpful at any hour. Very knowledgeable.

Jenica Wilcox

21:07 14 Sep 25

At the very beginning, I had no hope or nowhere to go, or any idea what to do with the situation I got in but I got in touch with Wasatch Defense. They connected me with Beau and Jenny and thanks to them I get to live my life after going through 4 years of hardship and uncertainty lane and Beau and Jenny fought tooth and nail for me and gave me another chance at life. For that, I am forever grateful to them and would recommend them a million times over.

Isaiah Smith

00:21 11 Sep 25

These guys have been such a help throughout this long and scary process. The entire team has been super informative and supportive throughout this case my family has been dealing with. Lane especially has been nothing but reassuring and quick to answer any questions or concerns I have. I am beyond relieved that we went with Wasatch Defense!

Larz

22:36 10 Sep 25

Great defense lawyer. Reed was very professional and helped my family through a difficult time. I highly recommend him.

Nabila Shafi

21:40 10 Sep 25

Lane Clark and his team are world class. They take care of their clients and truly care about them as people. They understand their client's situation and most importantly they understand the laws and decision makers involved throughout the entire process. I highly recommend him and their firm.

Bradley Thatcher

00:59 10 Sep 25

If you’re looking for lawyers who don’t just show up but show out, this is the team. They’ve had my back every step of the way sharp, relentless, and seriously kick ass at what they do.Special shoutout to Lane: absolute rockstar. Lane goes above and beyond, explains things in a way that actually makes sense, and fights like hell for the best outcome. You can tell they truly care, not just about the case but about you as a person.Professional, powerful, and downright awesome these are the lawyers you want in your corner.

Shannon Rakes

23:45 09 Sep 25

Did a great job handling the case. Got great relief for our family. Was fantastic at explaining everything in detail. definitely recommend.

Erica Taylor

00:25 08 Sep 25

They were very personable and professional.

Loraine Larsen

00:15 08 Sep 25

I was charged on a Sunday and called Wastatch defense on Monday at lunch. They were able to get me a consultation right away. I felt so relieved after talking with them. They knew what to do and took care of everything from the moment I signed. Call with confidence that you will be well taken care of through the whole process.

douglas larsen

00:12 08 Sep 25

Communication was exceptional, they did anything and everything to reassure us things were going to be okay. Lane is exceptional wherever he his he will get back to you in a timely manner.

Diann Castaneda

20:25 05 Sep 25

Franklin Katschke is an incredible attorney. I know he works very hard and does an amazing job for his clients. He's sharp and gets the job done. You cannot go wrong with Franklin as your attorney.

Clay Randle

16:50 05 Sep 25

Great service we are super happy with them they’ve help me and my family a lot we definitely recommend their services.

Gerram5.7 R

16:02 04 Sep 25

My son was falsely accused by a student at school and the issue was reported to DCFS. My defense attorney team and attorney Paul Johnson did a wonderful job and got everything dismissed quickly.

Tiffany

18:45 01 Sep 25

It is early in the case with a long road ahead, but up to this point we have been treated with understanding, kindness and compassion. Reed and Lane have been immediately responsive when contacted. I believe their team is competent and motivated to advocate through a difficult situation, and are highly invested in reaching the best possible outcomes. Thank you!

Ginger

18:05 30 Aug 25

So, initially I didn't have the best experience with a specific attorney, after I had left a negative review, Lane personally reached out to me to offer to rectify the situation. I was blow away with how kind and professional he was, and his offer that if I ever needed help again, I could use him personally. Sometimes things happen, and maybe my experience was just a fluke, but I am truly surprised how quick Lane was to want to make things right. Because of that alone, I would absolutely recommend Wasatch Defense Attorneys. Not all businesses care about their clients and their customer service, and I can tell he really wants people to have had a good experience with his organization. Thank you, Lane!

Lauren W.

15:06 29 Aug 25

Wasatch Defense Lawyers were creative and resourceful in their defense of my son. Thank you for a job well done!

Charlotte Stewart

00:41 25 Aug 25

We really enjoyed our experience with this team! It was a pleasure to work with Mark and Lane. They provided clear guidance, support and always answered any questions we would have at any time during the process! Very helpful and informative. We also appreciated the care and empathy they showed for us just as people during a difficult time. They are great and I would highly recommend!

Anna Vongse

18:12 24 Aug 25

The team that helped absolve my case talked clearly with me and I have only positive feelings with everyone involved with Wasatch Defense. Thank you.

Damon Rushton

04:29 23 Aug 25

I live in New Jersey but used to live in Utah. This firm was patient and handled my problems swiftly and professionally. I would recommend to anyone especially if you’re out of state and new help in Utah.they get the job done 👌

Roger Maiure

18:42 22 Aug 25

When I found myself stranded at the doorstep of an unfamiliar legal system, I reached out for help. Scott and the team at Wasatch Defense Attorneys responded with remarkable speed, meeting with me the same day to listen, strategize, and provide clear guidance. Even after resolving my case, their continued support has been a tremendous comfort during such uncertain times. Wasatch Defense Attorneys are swift, effective, and, most importantly, always have your back.

RobRoy Thompson

13:45 22 Aug 25

Wasatch Defense Lawyers were right there when my son needed them. Lane made sure my son was protected from the start. We were treated fair and Darrell was straightforward and to the point which got the job done. Thank you Wasatch Defense Lawyers

angie mortensen lopez

02:16 21 Aug 25

Wasatch Defense attorney I spoke with and had a consultation with was extremely personable, helpful, caring, concerned and considerate towards the case I brought fourth to them! Absolutely would recommend hiring them to fight for you!

mandi Moon

17:16 18 Aug 25

Paul and the rest of the team at Wasatch defense are the best in the state for a reason.

Brian Swaner

22:43 15 Aug 25

We really recommend Wasatch Defense Lawyers. Darrell, Layne, Amy and Victoria (Apologies if we forgot to mention anyone else) Great staff, they were very honest with us. Very trustworthy and very supportive! Definitely will reach out and work with them again. We really appreciate all the help and support. Thank you all!

Jenny L.

00:57 15 Aug 25

Wasatch defense was professional, knowledgeable, and great to work with. Lane was very personable and helped ease our concerns.

josh schultz

14:03 14 Aug 25

Tyler Ayres is a dedicated and knowledgeable defense attorney who has been invaluable in my case. He provided clear guidance, strong representation, and is always responsive to my questions. I highly recommend Tyler and Wasatch Defense Lawyers to anyone needing a reliable defense lawyer.

Chris Fraide

03:16 13 Aug 25

Very detailed and sensitive to issue.

Jennifer Stanger

23:18 06 Aug 25

The team did an excellent job more me. Explained everything in detail as we went through the process

Candace Baird

16:14 06 Aug 25

I really enjoyed my experience with this team! Their attention to detail and ability to stay calm under pressure truly set them apart. I always felt heard and supported throughout the process. Thanks to their expertise, we achieved a favorable outcome. I recommend Paul Johnson he made my experience top notch:)

maddie smith

19:29 03 Aug 25

I loved the service I got, Paul Johnson really knows what he's doing to keep me out of trouble! Highly recommend, these guys are so great they make me feel like family!

Mikaela Johnson

19:27 03 Aug 25

Accused of Child Abuse in Utah?

If you are facing child abuse allegations – even if you believe they are unfounded – seek legal counsel immediately. A conviction carries devastating and long-lasting consequences. Navigating child abuse cases requires experience and skill – two things Wasatch Defense Lawyers bring to every case.

Why Choose Wasatch Defense Lawyers

1. Decades of combined experience
2. Award-winning attorneys
3. 650+ trials handled
4. Utah Criminal Defense Bar Certified
5. Transparent fees and communication
6. More 5-star reviews than any other Utah defense firm

Learn more about Why Choose Us.

Award-Winning Criminal Defense Law Firm in Salt Lake City, Utah

If you’re facing accusations of sexual abuse or a sex crime, you’re going to need help from the largest criminal defense team in Salt lake City, Utah. The Wasatch Defense Lawyers experienced team of award-winning attorneys is dedicated to protecting your freedoms and rights. We specialize in defending against sex offenses, sex crimes, rape, drug charges & theft crimes. With over 650 trials to our credit, our criminal defense team is prepared to go all the way on your behalf.

We offer free case reviews at our downtown Salt Lake City, Utah office and are available 24/7 to provide you with the best legal advice and representation. With more 5-star reviews than any other criminal defense firm in Utah, you can trust the Wasatch Defense Lawyers to fight for your rights.

Looking for an Experienced Sex Crimes Defense Attorney Near Salt Lake City, Utah? Call an Experienced Sexual Abuse Lawyer in Salt Lake City at (801) 980-9965.

Ready to Protect Your Future?

When your reputation, freedom, and future are on the line, you can’t afford to wait. At Wasatch Defense Lawyers, we’ve built a reputation as Utah’s most trusted criminal defense team because we fight tirelessly for our clients. If you or a loved one has been accused of sexual abuse in Salt Lake City or anywhere in Utah, reach out today. Every moment matters – and your defense starts now.