If you have been charged with sex trafficking, do not wait to get legal help. The prosecution is preparing their case against you. Without legal guidance and support, you risk making mistakes that could lead to a conviction. Partner with a Gilbert sex trafficking defense lawyer. Together, you and your attorney can prepare a legal defense that resonates with the court.
At Suzuki Law Offices, we are always available. Our team includes former prosecutors who are providing exceptional legal service. Trust a Gilbert sex crimes lawyer from our team to help you with your case. For more information, schedule a case consultation with us.
Why You Should Hire a Sex Trafficking Defense Lawyer
Your Gilbert sex trafficking defense attorney teaches you about the short- and long-term consequences of a conviction. They work diligently to disprove the prosecution’s argument. If they succeed, you could avoid a prison sentence and other penalties.
Prior to your trial, your Gilbert criminal defense lawyer gathers evidence from a variety of sources. They help you establish realistic expectations for your trial. When your attorney presents their argument in court, they advocate for you and dispute the prosecution’s claims. Meanwhile, they make sure you receive emotional support throughout your legal proceedings.
The Suzuki Law Offices team gives your sex trafficking case the attention it deserves. We can provide insights into the typical sentences for sex offenses in Arizona and other legal topics relating to your case. Contact us today to learn more.
Penalties If You Are Convicted of Sex Trafficking
The Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) define the penalties for those who are convicted of sex trafficking involving adults or minors. Your sex trafficking defense lawyer in Gilbert explains the penalties you will face if you are convicted. They do everything within their power to help you contest the prosecution’s case and show the court that you should not be punished.
Per ARS § 13-1307, sex trafficking involving adults is a class 2 felony. A first-time offender may receive a prison sentence of up to 12.5 years. There are times when a prison sentence is extended due to aggravating factors. For example, the court may prolong an individual’s sex trafficking prison sentence if the victim suffered severe emotional or physical harm.
In November 2024, Arizona passed Proposition 313, which changed the way the state punishes those convicted of sex trafficking of minors. With this, if someone is convicted of sex trafficking of a minor, they may be subject to lifetime imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
Collateral Consequences of a Sex Trafficking Conviction
Outside of the criminal penalties associated with a sex trafficking conviction, an individual may be subject to collateral consequences that make it tough for them to enjoy their life freely. These consequences can include:
- Lifetime registration as a sex offender
- Difficulty finding a job or housing
- Loss of the right to vote or possess a firearm
- Restricted access to educational opportunities
- Strained relationships with family members and friends
Your sex trafficking defense attorney in Gilbert wants you to make informed decisions as you go through the legal process. They discuss what to do if you are falsely accused of a sex crime in Arizona. Your lawyer crafts a legal strategy that may hurt a prosecutor’s chances of getting a conviction.
Gilbert Sex Trafficking Defense Strategies to Consider
Choose a criminal defense attorney who has received many positive client reviews to serve as your legal representation. Your lawyer will learn about your case and look for ways to poke holes in the prosecution’s case. They may consider myriad legal defenses, including:
No Intent to Commit a Crime
In your case, the prosecution must make it clear to the court that you knowingly committed illegal activities. Your attorney can raise a reasonable doubt about whether you intended to engage in sex trafficking or had knowledge of such activities. This defense may compel the court to find that you lacked intent or knowledge of the crime that allegedly took place.
Mistaken Identity
Unfortunately, you may be charged with sex trafficking even though you have no involvement in criminal activities. Your lawyer may prove to the court that there was a case of mistaken identity. As part of their evidence, they may share your alibi and explain to the court that you were not present when such activities were reported.
Lack of Evidence
The prosecution may have a body of evidence to use against you. Regardless, your lawyer may highlight inconsistencies in statements provided by witnesses or question the legitimacy of how various evidence was collected. Doing these things and many others may result in evidence against you being suppressed, which could prompt the court to dismiss your case.
If you have a strong case, the prosecution may have concerns about whether you will be convicted. These concerns may open the door to plea bargain negotiations. If you accept a plea agreement, you may not have to deal with a lengthy prison sentence.
How a Sex Trafficking Plea Deal Works
Your lawyer and the prosecution may negotiate a plea bargain before your case goes to trial. Negotiations offer no guarantees. Your attorney keeps you updated as they go back and forth with a prosecutor regarding a plea agreement. If a proposal is made, you can review the offer with your attorney.
The prosecution does not have to offer a plea deal. In the same vein, you are not legally obligated to approve a plea agreement. Your lawyer can help you weigh the pros and cons of a plea bargain. If you decline this agreement, your attorney will make sure that your case is ready for your trial date.
A plea deal may not be an option for those who have been charged with sex trafficking of a minor. If you have been accused of this crime, seek legal help right away. Otherwise, a prosecutor may commit substantial time and resources in the hopes of punishing you to the fullest extent of the law.
Get an Experienced Sex Trafficking Attorney on Your Side
Suzuki Law Offices is a criminal defense law firm with a history of excellence and integrity. We understand the criminal justice system and represent the best interests of those charged with sex trafficking.
Give us the opportunity to help you with your sex trafficking case. Request a case consultation with us.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form