Category: Criminal Defense
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Unlawful Sexual Activity with a Minor (Ages 14–15) in Utah
In Utah, sexual activity involving a 14- or 15-year-old can lead to serious criminal charges — even when both individuals believe the relationship is consensual. These laws are designed to…
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When ‘Yes’ Isn’t Enough: The Complicated Reality of Consent Under Utah Law
Consent is often portrayed as a simple, binary question: Did they say yes? In schools, in PSAs, in the shorthand of pop culture, consent has become a clear-cut concept —…
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The Sex Problem
At what age can someone truly consent to sex — and when does the law say they can’t? This article breaks down how child sex laws try to answer that…
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Sexual Offenses in Utah: Overview & Legal Guide
If you’re reading this, chances are you—or someone you know—is trying to make sense of Utah’s complex and often overwhelming sexual offense laws. Whether you’re navigating a criminal accusation, supporting…
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Why Are Utah’s Sexual Offense Laws So Complicated?
Utah’s sexual offense laws are among the most detailed in the country — and for good reason. These laws aren’t built on a single rule or one-size-fits-all standard. They’re shaped…
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People Deserve a Second Chance
In the criminal justice system, the most lasting consequence isn’t always prison or probation. It’s the quiet erasure of identity.
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Why Stone River Law Wins Where Others Don’t
People come to us seeking more than just a good criminal defense lawyer—they need someone they can trust with their future. At Stone River Law, we build trust into everything…
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Utah Court of Appeals Reverses Convictions in State v. Mclain Over Right to Counsel Violation
The Utah Court of Appeals has reversed the convictions of Michael Charles Mclain, who had been convicted on five counts of child sexual abuse, including three counts of rape of…
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Probable Cause vs. Reasonable Articulable Suspicion
“The Fourth Amendment wasn’t written for people with nothing to hide any more than the First Amendment was written for people with nothing to say.”― Dave Kruegertags
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Utah Appeals Court Overturns “Failure to Stop” Conviction in State v. Clegg, 2025 UT App 61
When can a person legally be charged for ignoring a police command? In State v. Clegg (2025 UT App 61), the Utah Court of Appeals tackled that question and clarified…
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Cedar City v. McCraw (2025 UT App 123)
The Utah Appeals Court has recently released an opinion vacating Criminal Mischief and Domestic Violence convictions for Jennifer McCraw based on claims of Ineffective Counsel. McCraw has been granted a…
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State v. McDonald (2025 UT App 172)
The Utah Court of Appeals has thrown out an aggravated assault conviction after finding that the defense attorney gave jurors the wrong definition of the word “likely.” This mistake confused…