How Sexual Assault Of A Minor Laws Work In Arizona
A.R.S. § 13-1404 – Sexual Assault
Arizona law defines sexual abuse as intentionally engaging in sexual contact with a person above 15 years of age, or with any person under 15 years of age if the contact was with the female breast only. It is prosecuted as a class 5 or class 3 felony.
A.R.S. § 13-1405 – Sexual Conduct With A Minor
Defendants may be convicted if they engaged in sexual intercourse or sexual oral acts with a person under 18 years of age. Penalties increase if the defendant was in a position of trust or when there are other aggravating circumstances.
A.R.S. § 13-1402 – Indecent Exposure
Indecent exposure is defined as exposure of the genitals, anus, areola, nipples, or breast in a reckless way that would be offending or alarming to a reasonable person, and is generally prosecuted as a class 6 felony unless the defendant has a prior history.
A.R.S. § 13-1410 – Continuous Sexual Abuse Of A Child
Molestation of a child includes any sexual contact with a child under 15 years of age, except for contact with the female breast alone. This crime is prosecuted as a class 2 felony in Arizona and will include prison, fines, and sex offender registration.
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“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.
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Highly Qualified & Experienced Sex Crime Defense Attorneys Near Phoenix
Fighting For Our Clients Against A Presumption Of Guilt
You can go without breaking the law your entire life, but a single allegation of sexual misconduct with a child can destroy everything. We’ve seen what can happen when unfounded accusations go unanswered, and even when a person’s name is cleared, the stench of doubt follows them forever. However, this is a concern for another time. If you’re charged with a crime this serious, your primary focus should be on avoiding conviction.
At VS Criminal Defense Attorneys, this is exactly what we’ll strive for. Our legal team will fight to secure a reduction or dismissal of all charges. If this isn’t possible, we can also advocate for you at trial and engage in plea negotiations when appropriate. The ideal approach to your case will depend on the circumstances, but our sexual assault of a minor lawyers in Phoenix will not stop fighting for the best possible outcome in your case.
Contact us today by calling 602-805-1212 to schedule a confidential consultation
The Serious Consequences Of Sexual Assault Of A Minor Accusations
We’ve all seen what can happen to a person who is publicly accused of sexual assault. Even if allegations are unfounded, they can completely upend an individual’s life. When accusations involve a minor, the situation becomes even more dire. Such allegations can result in decades behind bars, placement on the sex offender registry, and destruction of your reputation. This is why you should speak to a Phoenix lawyer focused on the defense of those accused of sexual assault of a minor.
At VS Criminal Defense Attorneys, our legal team knows that individuals implicated in the rape of a minor have a difficult road ahead. Even if a relationship was consensual in nature, the state will levy sexual assault charges against the accused. The worst thing you can possibly do is face these charges without a legal professional on your side. Contact our Phoenix sexual conduct with a minor attorney today to get started on your defense.
What Should You Understand About Sexual Conduct With A Minor Charges?
If you’re facing accusations of sexual assault involving a minor, there are many aspects of the law that you need to understand. First off, consent does not matter. Arizona law does not allow individuals under the age of 18 to consent to sexual acts. This means that someone in a relationship with a minor can face the same penalties as a person who used force or coercion during a sexual assault.
It’s also important to note that sexual assault of a minor can be charged under different felony classes. This can dictate whether a conviction leads to two years in prison or a sentence of decades. An accused individual could also face increased penalties depending on their relationship with the alleged victim (e.g., teacher, guardian) and their age. In fact, some convictions can carry a life sentence.
This should make the severity of these accusations clear, and that’s exactly why you need to speak with a Phoenix sexual assault of a minor attorney today.
What Are The Potential Penalties For Sexual Assault Of A Minor?
The penalties that a person faces when charged with this crime will depend upon the circumstances of their case. As discussed earlier, a potential life sentence is on the table in certain instances. However, this is often only the case if an alleged victim is under the age of 13. Even when an accuser is just under the age of consent, a potential sentence can reach many years.
Penalties can also be increased if certain elements are proven at trial. For instance, the alleged use of date rape drugs or an assault resulting in physical injury could extend potential sentences. And even if someone is able to avoid the most severe consequences, placement on the sexual offender registry can be disastrous. Following a conviction, anyone can see your record and will immediately assume you’re a danger to children.
Take immediate action and defend your freedom. Let our sexual assault of a minor lawyers in Phoenix advocate on your behalf.
About Our Phoenix Sexual Assault Of A Minor Defense Lawyers
Meet Our Skilled Team Of Sex Crimes Attorneys
Michelle Villanueva-Skura is an experienced criminal defense attorney who focuses in Arizona sex crime defense and other major felonies. As an aggressive advocate for her clients, Ms. Villanueva-Skura believes strongly in protecting the rights of defendants and is passionate about government accountability and personal freedoms. Her track record of success has enabled her to develop a reputation as a leading Arizona sexual assault defense attorney. Our firm serves clients who speak English and Spanish. If you’re facing sex crime allegations in Arizona, get the defense and advice you need from a trusted law firm when you contact VS Criminal Defense. We are ready to help you understand your legal options and next steps. Call us today!
Visit Our Sexual Assault Of A Minor Defense Law Office Near Phoenix
If you’re facing allegations of a sex crime or have been arrested due to alleged involvement in a sexual assault, you need immediate representation from an experienced Arizona sexual assault defense attorney. Call VS Criminal Defense to schedule your free, confidential consultation where we can review your legal options and help you develop a plan moving forward.
Why Hire Our Sexual Assault Defense Attorneys Near Phoenix
Phoenix Neighborhoods Served By Our Sexual Assault Of A Minor Defense Attorneys
VS Criminal Defense is a leading Arizona sexual assault defense lawyer serving individuals throughout the greater Phoenix area. We defend clients against the most severe sex crime allegations, including sexual assault of a child, indecent exposure, child molestation, child pornography and more. Call our trusted law firm today to get started with a legal strategy for your case. We will fight for your rights, ensure a fair trial, and build a strong case in your defense.