Age Of Consent in Colorado

What is the Age of Consent in Colorado?

In the state of Colorado, the age of consent is 17 years old. This means that anyone who is 17 years of age or older can legally consent to sexual activity. It is important to understand that if one person is above the age of consent and the other is below, then it is illegal for the two to engage in sexual activity.

What are the Exceptions to the Age of Consent?

The exceptions to the age of consent in Colorado are when the two individuals are close in age. This means that if one person is 16 years of age and the other is 15 years old, they can legally engage in sexual activity. In Colorado, the minimum age difference between the two parties must be no more than 4 years. This means that if one party is 16 and the other is 20, then it is still illegal for them to engage in sexual activity.

What are the Penalties for Violating the Age of Consent in Colorado?

If someone is found guilty of violating the age of consent in Colorado, then they can face serious penalties. Depending on the age difference between the two parties, they could be charged with a felony or a misdemeanor. If the age difference is more than 10 years, then the offender can face a Class 4 Felony charge. This is punishable by two to six years in state prison, a fine of up to $500,000, and mandatory registration as a sex offender.

Are There Any Other Relevant Laws in Colorado?

In addition to the age of consent, Colorado also has a law that states that any person over the age of 18 can be charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor. This means that if an adult provides drugs, alcohol, or anything else that could be considered as contributing to the delinquency of a minor, then they can face a Class 4 Felony charge.

Takeaway

The age of consent in Colorado is 17 years old. There are some exceptions to this law, such as when the two individuals are close in age. Violating the age of consent in Colorado can result in serious penalties, including a felony charge and time in prison. It is important to understand the laws in Colorado and to not take any risks when it comes to consensual sexual activity.