When someone makes a claim against you, it is often a natural reaction to fight back and deny what happened. Yet, doing so in a serious sex crime case can backfire. If you are facing any type of charge, reach out to our Tucson nonconsensual sex defense lawyer to learn what Suzuki Law Offices can do for you. Our experienced, aggressive team is here to help you.
When you face any type of criminal charge related to a sex crime, it is in your best interest to work with a Tucson sex crimes lawyer who has also spent time as a prosecutor. With decades of experience, you can rely on our team to guide you through this challenging time.
Why You Need a Sex Crimes Lawyer in Tucson
Arizona laws related to sex crimes carry steep punishments that carry the risk of jail time and long-term implications for your future. The law says you are innocent until proven guilty, but these charges often carry a stigma that could impact your reputation for years to come, even with just accusations. By hiring a nonconsensual sex defense attorney in Tucson, you take the first steps in fighting back.
At Suzuki Law Offices, we take every accusation seriously and work to defend our clients from the first day. This includes providing you with exceptional legal representation, including questioning and court appearances. It means working to prove your innocence or to get charges reduced when possible.
Our legal team includes a former prosecutor who knows exactly what steps to take to minimize the negative outcome in your case to the fullest extent allowable under the law. Every case is different. Our Tucson criminal defense lawyer puts the time and hard work into providing you with exceptional legal representation.
Understanding Your Risks in a Sex Crimes Charge
Sexual assault, under A.R.S. § 13-1406, is any type of sexual action without consent. More commonly referred to as rape, a person may be charged with sexual assault if they knowingly engage in nonconsensual sexual intercourse or nonconsensual oral sexual contact.” Nonconsensual implies any of the following:
- The victim was coerced into the action with the immediate use or threatened use of force against someone or property
- The victim was incapable of providing consent, including due to impairment of cognition due to mental defect, intoxication, sleep, or mental disorder
- The victim was deceived as to the nature of the act
- The victim was deceived into believing they were married to the other party
In any situation where a lack of consent occurs, the risk of facing criminal charges is very high. The law does not require physical evidence to substantiate these claims, as they can arrest a person based on the statements made by the victim. This makes it incredibly important to seek legal action immediately to protect yourself and your future.
The Risks During an Investigation for Nonconsensual Sex
In many situations, law enforcement will take every step they can to prove you are at fault, even if you believe you did not do anything to warrant such beliefs. The investigation stage can be incredibly limiting for those who are facing charges, especially if you are doing anything that could put your case at risk.
One example of this is a confrontation call, in which the victim texts or calls you, often in the presence of the police, to try to bait you into admitting some type of event occurred. Another example of tactics used by police may be acting as if they do not believe the person alleging the crime, and even seem to “just want to talk” to you to get you to prove you did not do so.
Do not put yourself into these situations without an attorney by your side to guide you. Remember that it is not very common for a rape kit to be available to use DNA to prove you did not do it. For that reason, you need an experienced lawyer by your side to fight for you from the very start.
Know the Penalties of a Conviction of Nonconsensual Sex Charges
Those who are facing these charges must consider all of the implications that exist related to it, including criminal punishment, the implications for their career and relationships, and their ability to choose where to live later. If you are facing a sex crimes charge in Arizona, you could face:
- 5.25 to up to 14 years in prison for a first offense
- 7 years up to 21 years for a second offense with a prior felony conviction
- Up to 28 years in prison if you have two prior felonies
In addition to this, you are likely to be required to be placed on the sex offender registry, which will require you to consistently be monitored in terms of where you live. The risk of serious outcomes, including the risk to your mental health, is very high. Do not take these charges lightly when a Tucson violent crimes lawyer can help you build a defense.
Let an Experienced Lawyer Fight for You
Our decades of experience fighting for our clients make all the difference in your future outcome. We build a strong case to protect you and your rights, and we fight tirelessly to hold those who are making these claims accountable. Some of the defense strategies we may employ include:
- The acts were consensual, showing text messages or other evidence to support such statements
- Providing evidence to demonstrate that sexual intercourse or oral contact took place
- Showing that your rights were violated during the investigation
- Demonstrating how the other party was, in fact, not telling the truth or calling into question their character
- Pursuing evidence to demonstrate you could not have been where they claim you were
Each case deserves a personalized legal defense strategy that holes the accuser’s story. No matter how strong your alibi is, if you do not have an attorney working with you, you are putting your future at risk. You need to head into court with a lawyer.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Tucson Nonconsensual Sex Defense Attorney Now
Allow the legal team at Suzuki Law Offices to discuss your case with you privately, without any risk. Contact a nonconsensual sex defense lawyer in Tucson from our firm now. We would be happy to offer insight to guide you today.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form