Being faced with felony charges for a sexual abuse case is a daunting experience. Conviction comes with significant consequences, including lengthy imprisonment and possible mandatory registration as a sex offender. It can also impact your reputation, relationships, career, and your overall future.
Because this situation is so sensitive, you need someone in your corner who can be balanced and compassionate when it comes to providing legal advice. A sexual abuse lawyer in Casa Grande offers all the support you need without judgment.
At Suzuki Law Offices, our team is made up of experienced and dedicated attorneys who will handle your case with complete discretion. And with a former federal prosecutor on our side, we know exactly how to handle these types of allegations. Speak to one of our Casa Grande sex crimes lawyers to learn more.
What a Casa Grande Sexual Abuse Lawyer Can Do for Your Case
Hiring a sexual abuse lawyer in Casa Grande means having the support you need as you move through every stage of your case.
Here’s how we’ll help you:
- Keeping you in the loop: We’re available 24/7, even on weekends, so you can always get in touch with our team to discuss the details of your case. We’ll explain the next steps in the process and keep you updated throughout.
- Conducting an independent investigation: Our attorneys will uncover the details that are relevant to your case, looking at the prosecution’s evidence and identifying any weaknesses. We’ll also assess forensic evidence, witness statements, police reports, and more.
- Challenging the prosecution: With all the facts to hand, we’ll point out inconsistencies with the prosecution and challenge any potentially false allegations.
- Offering insights based on experience: One of our lead lawyers, RJ, once worked as an Assistant United States Attorney, which means we understand how prosecutors handle sexual abuse allegations. We use these insights to anticipate how the case will unfold and develop a well-prepared defense.
- Representing you in court: A sexual abuse trial can be lengthy and exhaustive, with prosecutors working hard to secure a conviction. A Casa Grande criminal defense lawyer will counter these tactics and present your defense with confidence, all while protecting your rights.
With deep local knowledge of court proceedings and knowledgeable insights into how these types of allegations are dealt with, our team at Suzuki Law Offices can make all the difference to your case.
How Arizona Law Deals with Sexual Abuse Allegations
Under Arizona Revised Statute § 13-1404, sexual abuse is when someone intentionally participates in sexual contact with another person without consent. However, classification depends on the age of the victim.
Here’s a breakdown of what the law dictates:
- Class 5 felony: Sexual contact with someone who is 15 years of age or above.
- Class 3 felony: Sexual contact with someone who is under 15 years of age.
Consent is not a legal defense to the charge if the victim is between 15 and 17 years of age and the defendant was in a position of trust. And because each case is assessed individually, penalties can differ based on the specifics of the situation.
Penalties for Sexual Abuse in Casa Grande
The consequences for sexual abuse in Casa Grande will often be based on the circumstances of the case and whether it was a Class 3 or 5 felony.
Class 5 Felony
Being convicted of sexual abuse against anyone who is 15 or older is a Class 5 felony and may result in any one of the following penalties:
- A prison sentence that may last between six months and 2.5 years
- Longer prison sentences for repeat offenses
- Fines of up to $150,000
- Lengthy probation periods
- A permanent mark on your criminal record
Class 3 Felony
A Class 3 felony charge for sexual abuse alleges that the victim was under the age of 15 and carries the following penalties:
- A prison sentence ranging from 5 to 15 years, with a presumptive term of 10 years under Arizona’s Dangerous Crimes Against Children sentencing guidelines
- Up to 25 years for repeat offenses
- Fines of up to $150,000
- Lengthy probation periods
- A permanent mark on your criminal record
Other Potential Penalties
As well as the above penalties, you may have to register as a sex offender or pay restitution to your victims. However, this will be based on the facts of your case.
A conviction could have additional consequences for your future career opportunities, your personal and professional reputation, your relationships, and housing possibilities.
Get in Touch with Suzuki Law Offices Today
A sexual abuse allegation is serious, and you need all the help you can get to defend yourself. A Casa Grande sexual abuse lawyer will work diligently to build a defense that’s based on the facts of your case. We’ll look at the available evidence and develop a strategy that aims to protect your interests and get the fairest outcome.
If you don’t know what your next steps should be, Suzuki Law Offices can help. Our team treats every client like family, offering to be your voice in action as we guide you through the entire legal process.
Learn more about what constitutes sexual abuse in Arizona to better understand where you stand. And speak to our team to discuss your options. We’re always available and happy to answer your questions during a free consultation.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form