Contributing to the delinquency of a minor, a class 4 felony, occurs when an individual aids, induces, or encourages a minor to violate a court order, municipal ordinance, or state or federal law. The adult cannot use the defense that he or she did not know that the other individual was underage, or that the minor lied about his or her age. For the purposes of this charge, the definition of a child is any individual below 18 years of age.
Among the broader charges in the criminal code, contributing to the delinquency of a minor may be applied in a variety of situations. Common examples are helping a minor obtain and consume alcohol or drugs, allowing a child to host a party with alcohol present, and encouraging a minor to engage in a sexual act.
Penalties in Colorado for contributing to the delinquency of a minor could include mandatory parole of three years, and imprisonment for two to six years in the Colorado Department of Corrections. For first-time offenders, probation may be an option. Note that such a charge is taken seriously and can greatly impact the ability of the accused to secure and maintain employment—especially if the convicted individual is a school employee. It also could have grave effects on divorce actions and child custody disputes.
Defenses Against Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor
There are some defenses that may be used against a charge of contributing to the delinquency of a minor. If applicable, these include the accused reasonably believing that the child involved was over 18 years of age, as well as parental permission for alcohol possession and consumption. The best way for a person to defend themselves from this charge, however, is to exercise their right to remain silent.
Contact Goldman Law, LLC Today
If you or someone you know has been charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor, our Colorado criminal defense attorneys at Goldman Law, LLC are here to help you.
At Goldman Law, LLC, we will advocate aggressively for your rights, minimize damage as best as we can, and immediately begin crafting a plan to position your case for the best resolution possible. We will do whatever we legally can to get your case dismissed and the charges against your dropped. If dismissal is not feasible, our legal team will strive to have your charges and sentences reduced.
Hiring a criminal defense attorney is the most important decision you can make for your criminal case. To learn more about your rights and receive a professional case evaluation, contact Goldman Law, LLC at (720) 504-7437.
