Not all criminal cases are created equal. Some arise from situations that, while technically illegal under Colorado law, involve consensual relationships between young people close in age. These are often prosecuted under what’s known as the “Romeo and Juliet law.” But don’t be fooled—being accused of a crime under this law can still carry serious consequences. If you or your child is facing such a charge, you need to understand your rights, the risks, and how a skilled defense attorney can make all the difference.
What Is the Colorado Romeo and Juliet Law?
The Romeo and Juliet law in Colorado refers to an exception built into the state’s statutory rape laws. It recognizes that not all consensual sexual encounters between teens and young adults are predatory or abusive.
In Colorado, the age of consent is 17. But there are exceptions:
- If one party is at least 15 and the other is less than 4 years older
- If one party is at least 14 and the other is less than 10 years older
These exceptions provide a legal defense against statutory rape charges. However, they don’t prevent an arrest or prosecution from occurring. You can still be charged, investigated, or forced to register as a sex offender depending on how the case unfolds.
Common Scenarios Involving the Romeo and Juliet Law
Here are a few real-world situations that can fall under this legal gray area:
- A 16-year-old high school student is in a relationship with a 19-year-old college freshman
- Two teenagers, ages 15 and 17, engage in a consensual relationship, but one parent objects and reports it
- A person is accused of statutory rape by a younger teen after a breakup or family dispute
Even when the relationship was entirely consensual, law enforcement or prosecutors may choose to file charges. That’s when the Romeo and Juliet exception becomes a vital part of your defense strategy.
Charges You Might Face
Without the Romeo and Juliet protections, a consensual encounter could lead to charges such as:
- Sexual assault on a child (CRS 18-3-405)
- Unlawful sexual contact (CRS 18-3-404)
- Contributing to the delinquency of a minor
Conviction on any of these could mean prison time, mandatory sex offender registration, and a permanent criminal record. The Romeo and Juliet exception provides an affirmative defense to avoid these life-changing consequences—but it must be raised properly and early.
What the Law Doesn’t Do
It’s important to understand that the Romeo and Juliet law is not a free pass. Here’s what it doesn’t cover:
- It does not make underage sex legal — it’s a defense, not a permission slip.
- It doesn’t protect relationships with large age gaps — the older partner must fall within the allowed age range.
- It doesn’t prevent law enforcement from investigating or arresting someone.
- It doesn’t guarantee the case won’t go to trial.
That’s why it’s critical to have a defense attorney who understands how to leverage this law in your favor.
How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help
A knowledgeable attorney can be the difference between a devastating conviction and walking away with your future intact. Here’s how Dawson Law Office can help:
1. Immediate Case Evaluation
The first step is determining whether the Romeo and Juliet law applies to your case. This involves a close review of the ages of the people involved, the nature of the relationship, and the evidence the state has.
2. Pre-Charge Intervention
In many cases, we can engage with law enforcement or the DA before charges are filed. If we can clearly show that your case falls under the Romeo and Juliet law, we may be able to stop prosecution before it starts.
3. Filing an Affirmative Defense
If charges are filed, we will assert the Romeo and Juliet exception as an affirmative defense early in the case. This may lead to dismissal or a favorable plea deal that avoids long-term consequences.
4. Protecting Your Reputation
We understand how sensitive and emotionally charged these cases are. We take extra steps to protect your privacy, prevent unnecessary media exposure, and shield your name and future.
5. Avoiding Sex Offender Registration
One of the most damaging aspects of a sex offense conviction is mandatory registration. When the Romeo and Juliet defense is successfully asserted, registration is typically avoided entirely.
Don’t Let a Teenage Relationship Destroy Your Life
Teenagers and young adults make mistakes. But being young and in a relationship should not automatically turn you into a convicted sex offender. Unfortunately, without the right legal help, that’s exactly what can happen.
Many Romeo and Juliet cases are triggered by angry parents, jealous exes, or misunderstandings. Prosecutors don’t always see the full picture—or they may be under pressure to pursue the case anyway. You need someone who’s not afraid to push back.
Dawson Law Office understands the stakes. Their team is committed to helping young people and their families navigate these difficult cases with compassion, discretion, and an aggressive legal strategy.
If you or your child has been accused under the colorado romeo and juliet law, time is not on your side.
What to Do If You’re Under Investigation
- Do not talk to the police without an attorney present
- Avoid discussing the case with friends or posting anything on social media
- Document everything — texts, messages, or other evidence showing the relationship was consensual and within the protected age range
- Call a defense attorney immediately
The earlier you take control of the situation, the better your chances of a positive outcome.
The Bottom Line
Being accused under the Romeo and Juliet law in Colorado is serious. But it’s not hopeless. With the right legal defense, you can protect your freedom, your record, and your future.
The team at Dawson Law Office has defended countless clients in similar situations and knows how to get results. Whether you’re a young adult facing charges or a parent worried about your child’s future, don’t wait.
Reach out now. Because when your future is on the line, doing nothing is the worst option of all.
