Phoenix’s Top-Rated Statutory Rape Lawyers
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How Statutory Rape Laws Work In Arizona
A.R.S. § 13-1405 – Sexual Conduct with a Minor
Knowingly or intentionally engaged in sexual conduct with a minor can be prosecuted as a class 2 or class 6 felony, depending on the alleged victim’s age. This includes sexual intercourse or oral sexual contact with a minor.
A.R.S. § 13-1407 Sexual Conduct With A Minor – Age Difference Greater Than Two Years
Although the age of consent in Arizona is 18, “Romeo and Juliet” laws offer some protection to the individuals who are 15-19 years old, provided the sex was consensual and there is no more than two years age difference between the parties.
A.R.S. § 13-1410 – Child Molestation
Any intentional engagement in sexual contact with a minor under 15 years of age, other than only with a female breast, may be prosecuted as child molestation, which is a class 2 felony in Arizona and comes with extensive penalties.
Read Our Clients’ Testimonials
Sex Crimes Defense Lawyers With 5-Star Rated Reviews
Professionalism, Responsiveness
“Michelle Skura was the attorney handling my son’s case. Michelle took action as soon as we finished our first conversation. I was well-informed throughout the entire process. She made this stressful process so much easier and less stressful. The communication was top-notch. Not only did her assistant call me, but Michelle was in constant contact. She was able to get our case dismissed. I would highly recommend Villanueva Skura Attorneys at Law. Thank you, Michelle, for all your hard work!
Veronica R.★★★★★
Personal Care and Support
“I was up against a significant allegation. The outstanding preliminary representation provided by Kourtnie and Michelle successfully ceased any subsequent police intervention. With their constant updates and vast expertise, they were able to have my charges dismissed. Their personal care and support during this process were a great comfort. I would strongly recommend this legal practitioner.
Kevin L.★★★★★
Knowledge and Expertise
“When We hired Michelle for my sons defense we were putting everything on the line. We were putting our sons future in her hands. I knew she was a tough women. She sounded like a fighter! I needed someone like her to fight for my son! Michelle I’m so glad I hired you! Thank you and your team for giving it all you had with all your knowledge and expertise! You are a BAD WOMAN! I would Recommend you to anyone!
Cynthia V. ★★★★★
Statutory Rape Defense Attorneys Near Phoenix
Advocating For Our Clients Against The Most Serious Charges & Penalties
In some instances, Arizona law can file rape charges even if no force or intimidation was involved. In fact, a statutory rape charge can be brought against someone even if a relationship was consensual in nature. If you’re facing sex charges, the potential penalties include prison time and a permanent place on the sex offender registry. Anyone who is accused of this crime should reach out to a statutory rape lawyer in Phoenix today.
At VS Criminal Defense Attorneys, our legal team has seen lives ruined over accusations of statutory rape. This is one of the few crimes where it’s not always necessary for prosecutors to prove criminal intent. That means a person can be charged even if they were unaware of an alleged victim’s age in certain circumstances. This is why you should always speak with a Phoenix sex crimes lawyer before talking to the police.
Contact us to schedule a confidential consultation today.
The Serious Consequences Of Statutory Rape In Arizona
If you’re accused of statutory rape in Arizona, there are some important things you should know. First off, there are different levels of crime under state law. For instance, it may be charged as a class 6 felony. This would result in a prison term of over one year. However, prosecutors may also charge the crime as a class 2 felony. A conviction will then result in a minimum of seven years behind bars. There are even times when life in prison is possible.
It’s also important to understand that additional defense strategies are available to you and your Phoenix statutory rape lawyer. For instance, Arizona has “Romeo and Juliet” laws that allow for consensual sex between individuals aged 15 to 19 as long as they’re not more than two years apart. Arizona is also one of the few jurisdictions where not knowing the alleged victim was underage is a valid defense — but only if they’re between the ages of 15 and 17.
Clearly, these are complex matters. That’s why you should speak with our statutory rape attorneys in Phoenix today. We can help you get a better understanding of your situation.
Does Consent Matter For Sexual Contact With A Minor Charges?
If you’ve been asked to sit down for an interview with police, it’s likely because they already suspect you of a crime. Many people make the mistake of agreeing to this “interview” — which is really an interrogation — because the accused doesn’t feel like a rape actually occurred. This is the case if such actions were consensual. However, the issue of consent does not matter when it comes to statutory rape charges in Arizona.
Arizona law does not recognize the ability of minors to consent. While the penalties for this crime will differ based on the alleged victim’s age, the law states that anyone under 18 is not capable of granting consent. To clarify, this means you need to speak with a statutory rape attorney in Phoenix the moment you’ve been accused. Doing so will maximize our law firm’s ability to build a solid defense.
What Should You Do if Accused of Statutory Rape in Phoenix?
Statutory rape is unlike many other crimes. For one, police may not see the accused as a substantial threat to the community. This is why they’ll frequently ask someone to come in for an interview before making an arrest. The police want to gain as much information as possible to aid in a potential prosecution.
The first thing you should do is keep your mouth closed. You’re not legally required to speak with police, and doing so without a Phoenix statutory rape lawyer present will only damage your case. Having a defense lawyer from the start can give you an edge in your case. Let the criminal defense lawyers at VS Criminal Defense Attorneys fight to defend you.
Defending You Against Statutory Rape Charges
If you’re facing charges of sexual conduct with a minor, you’ve got an uphill battle ahead of you. The prosecutor will no doubt want to obtain a conviction — regardless of the exact circumstances of your case. Arizona prosecutes sex crimes harshly. Defend your freedom with our help.
If you’ve been accused of statutory rape — regardless of the exact circumstances of your case — the legal team at VS Criminal Defense Attorneys is ready to assist. We’ll strive to have charges reduced or dropped altogether, and if necessary, we can represent you at trial or seek out a beneficial plea arrangement. Our focus is on getting our clients the best possible outcome. Contact us today by calling 480-923-9001 to schedule a confidential case evaluation.
Our statutory rape lawyers in Phoenix are ready to advocate on your behalf.
About Our Phoenix Sex Crime Defense Lawyers
Meet Our Skilled Team Of Sex Crime Attorneys
Sex crimes are serious. When you’ve been falsely accused of statutory rape, sexual assault of a minor, or any other sex-related crime in Arizona, you need the best criminal defense from an experienced Phoenix statutory rape lawyer. VS Criminal Defense has built a reputation of success as we have successfully handled hundreds of felony charges. Our primary attorney, Michelle Villanueva-Skura, and her associates, believe passionately in government accountability and the rights of the individual. We will fight aggressively for your interests, rights, and personal freedoms as we build a strong defense on your behalf. Trust us with your case! Call us today to schedule your free, confidential consultation.
Visit Our Sex Crimes Defense Law Office Near Phoenix
VS Criminal Defense is conveniently located near Phoenix and ready to defend individuals throughout the Valley. If you’ve been arrested or are facing allegations of any sex crime, call our experienced Phoenix sex crimes defense lawyer immediately to obtain trusted legal guidance and to review your legal options.
Why Hire Our Statutory Rape Defense Attorneys Near Phoenix
Phoenix Neighborhoods Served By Our Sex Crimes Defense Attorneys
VS Criminal Defense is a leading sex crimes defense lawyer in Phoenix serving all cities across the Valley. No matter what type of sex crime charges you’re facing, we are ready to fight tirelessly for your rights and interests. When it comes to something as serious as sex crime allegations, you need representation from a trusted attorney who has seen it all and knows how to win! Call our office in Phoenix to schedule your obligation-free, confidential consultation with one of our trusted attorneys.
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