Sex crimes are taken very seriously in Utah, and when certain aggravating factors are present, they can enhance the severity of the offense and increase the potential penalties faced by the defendant. Familiarizing oneself with these aggravating factors can provide a clearer understanding of the legal implications associated with sex crimes in Utah. If you have been charged with a sex crime, hire a criminal defense attorney to ensure you have the legal representation you need during this perilous time. 

Non Consensual Conduct

Engaging in sexual activity without the consent of the individual is a fundamental aggravating factor in many sex crime cases. Lack of consent highlights a violation of the individual’s autonomy and personal boundaries, which will be taken into account during the legal proceedings. 

Age of Individual 

In Utah, if the individual who the sex crime was perpetrated against is particularly vulnerable due to their age, such as being under 14 years old, it is considered an aggravating factor. Crimes against minors often carry heightened penalties to ensure their protection and well-being.

The intent to distribute drugs is a serious offense that involves proving an individual’s intention to distribute illegal substances. Apart from other crucial factors, the amount of substances found and the presence of paraphernalia, such as bags and scales, play a crucial role in establishing intent. Today, we will explore how these aspects may demonstrate the intent to distribute drugs. If you have been charged with a serious drug crime such as this, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney today to ensure the protection of your rights. 

The Importance of Substance Amounts 

The amount of drugs possessed is a significant factor in determining the intent to distribute. 

Legislators and law enforcement agencies pay attention to large quantities of controlled substances as they suggest a purpose beyond personal use. If the amount exceeds what is typically associated with personal consumption, it can be seen as evidence of an intent to supply or sell. 

If you have been charged with a sex crime, the decision of whether to seek a plea bargain or fight the charges can be difficult. Sex crimes are charged very seriously, and penalties can be devastating if found guilty. If you are facing sex crimes charges, it is essential to contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer to obtain the legal representation you need to tactfully guide you through the legal process, all the while seeking a case outcome in your favor. 

Here Are Some Considerations to Help Guide Your Decision

Reasons someone may seek a plea bargain include the following:

• A plea deal typically results in lesser charges and penalties. In many cases, accepting a plea deal will lead to a lighter sentence than would have been imposed if you were found guilty after a full trial. This is especially true if the evidence against you is strong or you possess a criminal record. 

  ...

There is no question that drug laws in the United States can vary considerably from state to state. Each state, including Utah, has its own set of statutes and penalties regarding certain drug offenses. However, Utah does have strict drug laws in an attempt to dissuade people from using such substances. Today, we are going to explore Utah drug crimes and see what offenses like drug possession and possession with intent to distribute mean for those convicted. If you are facing drug charges in Utah, hire a criminal defense lawyer, as your freedom may be in serious jeopardy. 

What Are the Laws Regarding Drug Possession in Utah? 

Utah has strict drug possession laws that are enforced rigorously. Drug possession means possessing controlled substances, such as marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine, or heroin, for personal use. For the first and second time you are charged with drug possession, both will likely be considered a Class A misdemeanor. If convicted of a Class A misdemeanor, you may be imprisoned for one year and receive a $2,500 fine. If you are charged a third time with drug possession, it will likely be categorized as a third-degree felony, bringing with it a potential five-year prison sentence and fines of $5,000.

What is Possession with Intent to Distribute?

In most drug possession cases, the amount of the drug you possess matters considerably. This is because smaller amounts of a substance will usually be considered possession for personal use. However, in situations where large amounts of drugs are discovered, the charge may change from regular possession to possession with intent to distribute. These two charges are distinct from one another in the sense that possession with intent to distribute is a much more severe offense than a charge of simple possession. 

In Utah, driving under the influence (DUI) is a grave offense, as is true across virtually all of the United States. For drivers who are repeat-DUI offenders, the results of a conviction can be downright devastating. If you have already been convicted of at least one DUI in the past and you have been charged with another, you need to consider your legal options very seriously, as you are in extreme legal peril. Contact a DUI lawyer to ensure you have an advocate by your side as you face these severe charges. 

First and Second Offense DUIs in Utah

In Utah, the legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.05 percent. If a driver is stopped and is found to have a BAC over the legal limit, they can be arrested and charged with DUI. The penalties for a first-time DUI offense in Utah may include fines, a loss of driving privileges, jail time, community service, alcohol treatment programs, and more. Then, suppose you are arrested for a second DUI within ten years. In that case, the charge is escalated from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class A misdemeanor, requiring the accused to spend a minimum of five days in jail, enhanced fines, and required supervised probation. 

What About a Third DUI? 

If a third DUI charge is received within ten years, it will be considered a felony offense. The penalties for such an offense can be quite severe, particularly if there are any aggravating circumstances in the case. With a third DUI, you will have to spend at least sixty days in jail, with the possibility of having to spend as much as five years in prison. You may also be at risk of losing your license for at least two years and be fined $10,000.