Accusations of sex crimes can change your life in vastly negative ways. Many of those accused of sex crimes find themselves struggling to overcome the ongoing penalties they may face, which may haunt them for the rest of their lives. Because these penalties are so severe, you may need a Mesa criminal defense lawyer to guide you through the details of your case and to help you defend your future.
With a Mesa sex crimes lawyer on your side, you have tools and resources you would not otherwise have as you defend your case. Your criminal defender with Suzuki Law Group can be a key part of arguing for your defense, gathering evidence, and representing you in the courtroom. When your future is on the line, do not hesitate to seek help and get the support you need for your legal issues.
How Arizona Defines Sex Crimes by Law
Sex crimes in Arizona cover a range of non-consensual sexual contact that can be punished by law. These crimes can range in definition or severity, but all can come with harsh penalties that impact your quality of life for years to come if you are convicted. Below are other terms and charges you may face if you are charged with a sex crime in Arizona:
- Indecent exposure under Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) §13-1402
- Child molestation under ARS §13-1410
- Statutory rape under ARS §13-1405
- Sexual exploitation of a minor under ARS §13-3554
- Child pornography under ARS §13-3553
The specifics of the charges against you will depend on the details of the crime you allegedly committed. Because that can vary significantly depending on the details of your charges, acting now to prepare yourself with knowledge of what you are accused of and what penalties may incur is crucial. When you are prepared now, we can begin preparing your case now.
Penalties You May Face if Convicted of Sexual Assault or Abuse
Sexual assault or abuse can come with severe penalties, which can vary depending on the specifics of the sex crimes you are accused of. For victims that are 15 or older, some sex crimes are punishable under ARS §13-1404, the law for sexual abuse, while acts committed against younger victims are punishable under ARS §13-705, or dangerous crimes against children. While the specific penalties may vary, you may face certain categories of punishment throughout.
One of the most serious penalties you may face is imprisonment. Under these laws, imprisonment can range anywhere from 6 months to decades, with more serious penalties if your charges are considered a dangerous crime against children offense. Enhanced penalties like these come with much longer prison sentences and higher fines.
Collateral Consequences of a Sex Crime Conviction
One of the most serious penalties that many people convicted of a sex crime in Arizona face is inclusion on the Arizona sex offender registry. This registry marks you as a sex offender, and it has lasting implications for your ability to live and work in certain places. It also requires you to notify those around you of your sex offender registration, which can impact your relationships and other parts of your life.
You may also face other collateral consequences because of your criminal background. Any situation where you would need to perform a background check, such as for leases, job applications, and more, could be adversely affected. A criminal record can devastate your opportunities even if you have completed your sentence.
Your Potential Defenses Following Sex Crime Charges
Because the penalties for sex crime convictions can be so life-changing, it is important to take action as soon as possible to build a strong defense for your case. The proper defense can help you avoid catastrophic penalties that can leave you struggling to recover from these accusations. With your sex crimes lawyer in Mesa at Suzuki Law Group on your side, you can get a powerful defense built for the specifics of your case.
One of the most common defenses to sexual abuse or assault cases is that the victim had consented to the sexual contact committed to them. In these cases, you may rely on evidence of written consent, such as through text messages or other evidence. Keep in mind, however, that if the victim is a minor, whether they stated their consent will not matter, as this would still constitute statutory rape under ARS §13-1405.
Pre-Trial Diversions and Plea Agreements
In some cases, you may be able to seek a pretrial diversion, a specific type of plea agreement that allows the defense to maintain a clean record and avoid jail time. The judge may expect you to complete certain requirements. However, if you complete these requirements without further legal trouble, your case may be dismissed.
However, pretrial diversion under ARS §9-500.22 is not available for every case type. For example, many sex crimes do not apply because these are often reserved for low-level misdemeanors. However, other diversion programs include mental health diversion and active military or veteran diversion, so speak with our team about your options.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Could Help Your Case
When you have been accused of a sex crime, you are facing charges that can potentially change your life in extremely negative ways. While you are allowed to represent yourself in a case like this, a single misstep can lead to harsh penalties like prison time and registration as a sex offender. Because of this, having a criminal defense attorney on your side throughout the process of your criminal charges can make a significant difference.
One of the key ways that a sex crimes attorney in Mesa can help you is by guiding you to a reputable defense. Each case is different, and certain defenses that may be common may not help your case. We can pinpoint the most advantageous way to approach your defense to help you clear your name.
Your sex crimes attorney can also represent you in the courtroom, a key part of avoiding mistakes that can cost you your freedom. If you say something incriminating in the courtroom, it may be used against you in ways that land you in prison and with a criminal record. With our team speaking for you in the courtroom, it becomes more difficult to make major mistakes that can cost you.
Connect with Mesa’s Compassionate Sex Crime Defense Law Firm to Protect Your Legal Rights
Being accused of a sex crime can be a devastating situation, and you may struggle to defend yourself against these charges. Worse, your future may be on the line, and for those with children or those who work in certain industries, it can alienate you from your family and impact your career path. However, there is hope when you have a Mesa sex crimes attorney on your side.
Our team at Suzuki Law Group has the tools you need to build a compelling defense that protects your future and your legal rights. When you reach out to our team for a consultation about the charges against you, we are ready to discuss the specifics of your case. To get started and learn more about your defense options, call or fill out our online contact form.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form