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Mesa Sexual Abuse Lawyer

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Mesa Sexual Abuse Attorney

Any criminal charge can threaten your rights, freedom, and long-term prospects. When it comes to a felony charge like sexual abuse, the stakes are extremely high. The sooner you start building a defense with an experienced attorney, the better your chances of protecting your way of life.

A Mesa sexual abuse lawyer at Grand Canyon Law Group could investigate the allegations and the prosecution’s case against you. Our legal team could identify any weaknesses in the case and work to reduce or dismiss the charges.

CONTESTING A SEXUAL ABUSE CHARGE

A skilled Mesa attorney could bring various defenses for someone charged with sexual abuse. First, it is important to understand the legal definition of sexual abuse in Arizona. The definition is fairly broad and refers to multiple behaviors and situations.

THE DEFINITION OF SEXUAL ABUSE

People can face sexual abuse charges if they knowingly engage in non-consensual sexual contact with someone 15 years or older. These charges can also result from sexual contact with a female’s breast if they are under 15. An effective defense must be tailored to the specific actions and scenarios alleged.

DEFENSE STRATEGIES

Suppose the alleged victim was over the age of 18. In this case, it may be possible to argue that the sexual act was consensual. However, if the alleged victim were a minor, the existence of consent would not be a plausible defense.

Another possible defense could be the lack of intent to engage in sexual contact. In some cases, it may be possible to show that the person charged with sexual abuse has been wrongfully accused. Our experienced local attorneys will tailor a defense strategy to the specific sexual abuse allegation.

POSSIBLE LEGAL PENALTIES ATTACHED TO A SEXUAL ABUSE CONVICTION

Sexual abuse is often charged as a class 5 felony when the alleged victim is aged 15 or older. If the alleged victim is younger, a person charged and convicted of sexual abuse could face the penalties attached to a class 3 felony. Sexual abuse of a person younger than 15 is charged as a dangerous crime against a child.

A class 5 felony can be punished by incarceration for up to 2.5 years, while a class 3 felony charge for sexual abuse carries imprisonment for up to 7.5 years. These ranges are for first-time offenders; a second-time sexual abuse offense for a dangerous crime against a child could lead to up to 22 years in prison.

FACTORS IN SEX ABUSE SENTENCING

Multiple factors could increase or decrease the penalties attached to a sexual abuse charge, known as aggravating or mitigating factors. A common example of an aggravating factor would be the alleged victim’s age, while a mitigating factor could be a lack of mental capacity on the part of the accused.

The impact of aggravating or mitigating factors and the sentence attached to a sexual abuse charge will also depend on whether the accused has a criminal record. The accused could face much harsher sentencing with a prior criminal record, even if mitigating factors exist. Talking to a seasoned Mesa attorney should be a top priority when facing a sexual abuse charge, as these cases require significant legal knowledge.

CONTACT MESA SEXUAL ABUSE ATTORNEY IMMEDIATELY

The right defense strategy will depend on your case’s unique facts and circumstances. In some situations, it may be possible for a Mesa sexual abuse lawyer to seek a full dismissal of the charges. Reducing to a lesser charge or even a plea arrangement may be the most advantageous solution in other situations.

A skilled defense attorney at Grand Canyon Law Group will help you seek a positive resolution and protect your rights throughout the legal process. Schedule your consultation with our legal team today to discuss your defense strategy.

Schedule A Consultation With The Grand Canyon Attorney Who Can Help