Phoenix Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Phoenix Sexual Abuse Attorney

In Arizona, sexual abuse is defined as touching a person’s private parts without consent. For those under 15, any touching of this kind is considered a sex crime, regardless of consent. These are serious allegations with long-lasting penalties upon conviction, including lengthy prison sentences, probation, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. Fortunately, a Phoenix sexual abuse lawyer can fight these accusations on your behalf.

When the stakes are this high, trust your case to a Phoenix sexual abuse lawyer with experience defending people in your situation. The skilled Phoenix sex crime lawyers at Grand Canyon Law Group will work to pursue the best outcome possible and fight to protect your rights.

LEGAL ELEMENTS OF SEXUAL ABUSE

Sexual assault, or rape, involves some element of sexual conduct or penetration, whereas sexual abuse is limited to touching. If the alleged victim is under the age of 15, the defendant could be charged with a dangerous crime against children. Depending on which body part the accused person is alleged to have touched, the charge could be sexual abuse or possibly molestation of a child. A conviction could lead to a prison sentence of up to 24 years for each count. A convicted person also faces lifetime probation and sex offender registration. To defend against these severe penalties, those accused of sexual abuse should work with a Phoenix lawyer.

AGGRAVATING FACTORS OF SEXUAL ABUSE CHARGES

Certain factors in a sexual abuse case can lead to harsher sentencing. Common aggravating factors include:

• The age of the alleged victim
• The circumstances of the relationship between the defendant and the alleged victim
• How the offense was allegedly committed
• How long the abuse lasted
• The amount of harm caused to the alleged victim

Our experienced Phoenix criminal defense attorneys can explain the factors that might impact a sexual abuse case and work to gather mitigating evidence in the defendant’s favor. This can help reduce the potential penalties of a conviction.

PENALTIES FOR SEX ABUSE IN PHOENIX

A person convicted of sexual abuse faces a potentially lengthy prison sentence. If the alleged victim is under 15, the person could be sentenced for a much longer period of time. Additionally, they could be placed on lifetime probation and required to register as a sex offender. Sexual abuse against a person under 15 is a Class 3 felony.

If the alleged victim is over 15, a person faces Class 5 felony charges. The potential penalties include up to two and a half years in prison for each count, with a minimum sentence of one and a half years. The defendant also faces lifetime probation and sex offender registration. The penalties for a sex abuse conviction can severely impact a person’s freedom and future, making it important to work with our seasoned local attorneys on an airtight defense.

Criminal Defense Strategies for Sexual Abuse Crimes

If you are facing sexual abuse charges, your attorney can take steps to scrutinize the evidence or question the reliability of the victim’s statements. If you do not know the victim, arguing that law enforcement arrested the wrong person can weaken the state’s case against you.

If you do know the victim, your attorney can argue that no crime took place or that any acts that did occur do not meet the state’s definition of sexual abuse. An experienced attorney can analyze every detail of your case to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments.

Your attorney can also challenge the motivations or credibility of the accuser, especially if there is evidence of bias, ulterior motives, or inconsistencies in their statements. This can be particularly effective in cases where the accusations stem from personal disputes or misunderstandings.

If the evidence used against you was gathered in violation of your constitutional rights, your lawyer can move to have the evidence deemed inadmissible in court. Prosecutors must reach a high bar when proving that a defendant committed a crime, as they must do so beyond a reasonable doubt.

Phoenix Sexual Abuse FAQs

Q: What Should I Do If I’m Accused of Sexual Abuse in Phoenix?

A: If you’re accused of sexual abuse in Phoenix, avoid discussing the allegations with anyone except your attorney. Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately to protect your rights, as early intervention is crucial. Refrain from posting on social media or making statements that could be used against you in court. Your molestation charges attorney can guide you through the process and develop a strategy to effectively address the accusations.

Q: What Are the Penalties for Sexual Abuse in Phoenix?

A: Penalties for sexual abuse in Phoenix vary based on factors like the victim’s age and the nature of the allegations. Convictions can lead to prison time, registration as a sex offender, and fines. Consulting an attorney is essential for understanding the potential consequences of these charges and exploring defense strategies.

Q: How Can a Lawyer Help With Sexual Abuse Charges?

A: A criminal defense attorney can investigate the evidence, challenge the credibility of witnesses, and identify procedural errors that may weaken the prosecution’s case. They can work to assert your rights and pursue options that can resolve your case, such as reducing charges, negotiating plea agreements, or seeking a case dismissal.

Q: Can Sexual Abuse Charges Be Dismissed?

A: Sexual abuse charges may be dismissed if evidence is insufficient, procedural errors occurred, or the allegations are proven false. A skilled defense lawyer can evaluate the case and pursue dismissal when appropriate by presenting a strong defense. Dismissals often hinge on thorough investigation and identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Q: What Is the Difference Between Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault in Arizona?

A: Sexual abuse and sexual assault are distinct charges under Arizona law. Sexual abuse typically involves non-consensual sexual contact that does not include penetration, while sexual assault refers to acts involving penetration without consent. The severity of their penalties also differs, with sexual assault often being charged as a more serious offense. Understanding the distinctions is crucial for mounting an effective defense.

CONTACT A PHOENIX SEXUAL ABUSE ATTORNEY TODAY

Sexual abuse allegations often make for nuanced cases that require different approaches than other kinds of criminal charges. When you face these accusations, you need to consult with a Phoenix sexual abuse lawyer as early as possible in the legal process.

A dedicated attorney can try to prevent the charges from the outset. At Grand Canyon Law Group, we know what evidence to look for and how to contest the prosecution to give you the best chance of a positive outcome. Our former prosecutors have the experience and legal knowledge to handle your case the right way. Give us a call today to get started on your defense.

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