Have you been charged with a sex crime in Phoenix, AZ? A conviction can lead to severe, lasting impacts on your freedom, reputation, and future. The consequences often reach far beyond the penalties imposed by the court, affecting where you live, work, and the way you interact with your community.
When facing such high stakes, it’s essential to start building a strong defense as early as possible. Effective defense against sex crime charges requires thorough preparation, strategic insight, and dedication to preserving your rights.
Being charged with a sex crime does not necessarily mean that you will be found guilty. Criminal charges are not evidence of guilt and cannot be used against you. However, some people falsely accuse others of committing sex offenses, and it is possible to be convicted of a serious offense even when you are innocent.
The Phoenix sex crimes lawyers at Gurion Legal are here to protect you. Led by Attorney Omer Gurion, a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist with the State Bar of Arizona, our team has a reputation for excellence in defending clients against even the most challenging cases in Maricopa County. We have the experience, commitment, and proven strategies needed to stand by you at each step.
For more information on how we can help you fight your charges, reach out to our Phoenix criminal defense law firm at (480) 800-0020 or fill out our short contact form online to set up a free consultation.
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Gurion Legal Can Help You Fight Sex Crime Charges in Phoenix, AZ
If you have been charged with a sex crime in Phoenix, contact the sex crimes attorneys at Gurion Legal today at (480) 800-0020 or request a free case evaluation online. 100% confidential. No obligation.
The attorneys at Gurion Legal prioritize your rights. Facing a sex crime charge can feel scary, and you might not know the steps to take. Our team can guide you through the legal process and fight for a fair outcome which may include getting your charges dropped, reduced, or dismissed. We also aim for a “not guilty” verdict whenever possible.
The Benefits of Partnering With Our Phoenix Sex Crimes Lawyers
Our team understands how much a sex crime conviction could negatively affect your future. Therefore, we fight to avoid a conviction at all costs.
Here are some benefits of partnering with us:
- Our founder, Attorney Omer Gurion, is a Criminal Law Specialist certified by the State Bar of Arizona. This means he is qualified to appear before all state courts and specializes in criminal law. No matter what court your case is in, we can defend you.
- Our team has the skills and knowledge to build robust cases. We’ve secured positive outcomes for cases that other defense lawyers deemed as unwinnable.
- After your arrest, our team can ensure law enforcement doesn’t infringe on your legal rights. That means explaining your rights, including Miranda rights, and going through the proper channels to recover evidence.
By calling on Gurion Legal, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands.
Understanding Sex Crime Laws and Potential Penalties in Arizona
Arizona takes sex crimes seriously. People convicted of sex crimes may face years in prison. They may also have to register as a sex offender on the Arizona sex offender registry. If someone has accused you of a sex crime in Phoenix, you cannot afford to take your situation lightly. You must vigorously defend yourself against these charges or face losing your freedom and reputation.
Being convicted of a sex crime can follow you forever. In addition to the criminal penalties you may face, a sex crime conviction changes how people see you, affecting your opportunities for employment, socialization, and more.
We represent clients facing many types of sex crime charges, including:
Indecent Exposure
According to Arizona law, a person commits indecent exposure if they expose specific body parts to another person if that would offend a reasonable person. The specific body parts include the genitals or anus of a man or woman or the nipples or areolas of one or more breasts of a woman. The law specifically excludes breastfeeding women from prosecution.
The penalties in Arizona for indecent exposure depend on the age of the person who saw the exposure and the number of prior convictions for the person who exposed themselves.
- People who expose themselves to a person over the age of 15 commit a Class 1 misdemeanor, which is punishable by a maximum of six months in jail.
- People with two or more prior convictions of indecent exposure to a person over the age of 15 commit a Class 6 felony, which is punishable by a prison sentence of six months to 15 years.
- People who expose themselves to a minor under 15 commit a Class 6 felony, which is punishable by a prison sentence of 4 months to 2 years.
- People convicted of felony indecent exposure and have two or more prior convictions for indecent exposure or public sexual indecency to a minor under 15 commit a Class 3 felony.
Public Sexual Indecency
Arizona law defines public sexual indecency as intentionally or knowingly engaging in the following acts in the presence of another person while being reckless about whether a reasonable person would be offended or alarmed by the act:
- Sexual contact
- Oral sexual contact
- Sexual intercourse
- Bestiality
Public sexual indecency in the presence of a person over the age of 15 is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Public sexual indecency in the presence of a person under the age of 15 is a Class 5 felony punishable by a prison sentence of six months to 2.5 years. A defendant with two or more prior felony convictions may face up to 15 years in prison.
Sexual Abuse
Arizona law defines sexual abuse as intentional sexual contact with a person over 15 without that person’s consent or sexual contact of the female breast with a person under 15. Defendants in a position of trust who made sexual contact with a person 15 to 17 cannot use the minor’s consent as a defense.
Sexual abuse is a Class 5 felony. Sexual abuse of a minor under age 15 is a Class 3 felony.
Sexual Assault
Arizona law defines sexual assault as intentionally engaging in sexual intercourse or oral sexual contact with a person without their consent.
The penalties depend on the defendant’s prior convictions, whether they administered drugs to the victim without their consent, and whether they inflicted any serious injury.
- A first offense can be punished by a prison sentence of 5.25 to 14 years.
- Subsequent offenses can bring prison sentences of seven to 21 years.
- Sexual assault using flunitrazepam, gamma hydroxybutyrate, or ketamine hydrochloride without the victim’s knowledge increases the prison sentence by three years.
- Sexual assault with the intentional infliction of serious injury may be punished by life in prison with no suspension of sentence, probation, pardon, or release until 25 years have been served or specific conditions have been met.
Sexual Exploitation of a Minor
According to Arizona law, people commit sexual exploitation of a minor when they knowingly commit any of the following acts with the visual depiction of a minor engaged in exploitive exhibition or other sexual conduct:
- Record
- Film
- Photograph
- Develop
- Duplicate
- Distribute
- Transport
- Exhibit
- Receive
- Sell
- Purchase
- Electronically transmit
- Possess
- Exchange
Sexual exploitation of a child is a Class 2 felony and is punishable by a prison sentence of 10 years to life, depending on the defendant’s prior convictions.
Luring a Minor
Arizona law defines luring a minor as offering or soliciting sexual conduct with another person while knowing or having reason to know that the other person is a minor. It does not matter if an adult posed as a minor or a fictitious character. A defendant cannot use the fact that the other person is an adult as a defense.
Luring a minor over the age of 15 is a Class 3 felony. Per Arizona law, if the minor is under the age of 15, the penalty is a prison sentence of five to 15 years or 10 to 24 years for aggravated luring of a minor.
Child Trafficking
Child trafficking laws target people who place minors into prostitution and those who engage in prostitution with a minor.
According to Arizona law, a person commits child trafficking if they:
- Permit, use, or cause a minor to engage in prostitution
- Transport or finance the transport of a minor to engage in prostitution
- Benefit from the minor’s prostitution
- Assist in other ways to make the minor available for prostitution
- Knowingly engage in prostitution with a minor under 15
- Knowingly engage in prostitution with a minor that they know or should know is 15 to 17
Child trafficking is a felony, and the punishment depends on the age of the child prostituted and the defendant’s prior convictions. Prison sentences range from seven to 50 years.
What are the Short-Term Consequences of a Sex Crimes Conviction in Arizona?
A conviction for a sex crime in Arizona can lead to immediate, severe consequences that disrupt multiple areas of life:
Possible Jail or Prison Time
Many sex crime convictions carry mandatory jail or prison sentences, ranging from months to several years based on the specific charge and any prior convictions. During incarceration, defendants may face restricted visitation rights, limited communication with loved ones, and challenges in adjusting to prison life. The immediate loss of freedom is often one of the most challenging short-term consequences.
Imposition of Fines and Fees
Beyond prison time, those convicted of a sex crime in Arizona may also face significant fines, which can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Additionally, the court may impose various administrative fees, including costs for probation monitoring or required counseling sessions. These fines can be a financial burden, especially during a time when finding employment may be challenging.
Probation and Parole Requirements
Following release from incarceration, individuals may be placed under strict probation or parole. Probation terms often include regular meetings with a probation officer, drug or alcohol testing, and restrictions on movement, employment, and associations. Failure to comply with probation terms can result in re-incarceration or additional penalties, making it essential to follow all court-imposed conditions.
Impact on Personal Relationships
A conviction can strain personal relationships, as friends, family, or colleagues may distance themselves. Facing criminal charges and the associated stigma can make it difficult for individuals to rebuild trust and support networks. This period of adjustment and potential isolation can be emotionally taxing, impacting overall well-being.
Employment Challenges
Many employers may immediately terminate a convicted individual’s employment, and finding new employment may be extremely difficult due to the conviction record. Arizona does not prevent employers from asking about or considering criminal history in hiring decisions, and the stigma surrounding sex crimes can make it challenging to secure job interviews or opportunities even in entry-level roles.
What are the Long-Term Consequences of a Sex Crimes Conviction in Arizona?
In addition to facing fines and jail time, a sex crimes conviction could also:
Require You to Join the Sex Offender Registry
After a sex crimes conviction, the state may require you to join the sex offender registry. If you must join the sex offender registry, you could face many restrictions in the future, possibly for the rest of your life. Our team strives to help you avoid the complications that come with a sex crime conviction.
Who Must Register With the Arizona Sex Offender Registry
The Arizona Department of Public Safety maintains a registry of sex offenders. This registry includes the name, address, and photograph of each sex offender and their history of convictions in Arizona. The department updates the register daily. The public can search this registry online to obtain information about registered offenders.
Arizona law requires you to register if you are convicted of:
- Sexual abuse
- Sexual assault
- Luring a minor
- Child sex trafficking
Offenders with a single conviction for indecent exposure or public indecency do not have to register. However, the Arizona Attorney General confirms that registered sex offenders must notify the county sheriff whenever they change their address.
Registering as a sex offender will haunt you for the rest of your life. Anyone can search the registry and learn all about you. Your neighbors and community members may shun or gossip about you, preventing you from becoming a thriving community member. Defending yourself against these charges now can preserve your reputation.
Limit Where You Can Live
Sex offenders have restrictions on where they can live. Per the Arizona State Senate, the law forbids sex offenders from clustering. This means that in a multifamily housing complex, the number of sex offenders on probation cannot exceed 10 percent of the total units.
Additionally, some people on the sex offender registry cannot live within 1,000 feet of a school or childcare facility. On top of that, sex offenders might find it more difficult to find housing if they are trying to rent. Landlords typically do background checks on prospective tenants. If they see someone is a sex offender, they could deny their rental application.
Restrict Your Driving Privileges
In Arizona, sex offenders do not have a regular driver’s license that they can renew every five years. Sex offenders must renew their licenses each year. Arizona puts these laws in place to ensure the sex offender’s address and photo are always up to date in the state identification system.
Affect Where You Work
Sex offenders in Arizona cannot go around parks, schools, or other areas where children typically are. Because of this, they cannot work somewhere near any of those areas.
On top of those work restrictions, many employers will deny employment to those on the sex offender registry when they conduct a background check.
What Defenses Can You Use Against a Sex Crimes Charge in Arizona?
Just because the state charged you with a crime doesn’t mean you will get convicted. At Gurion Legal, we have handled many sex crime cases and know defense strategies that have helped clients in the past. We personalize each defense to fit our clients’ situations.
Gurion Legal can prepare a solid defense for your sex crimes charges.
Examples of defenses we can use in sex crimes cases include:
The Survivor Identified the Wrong Person
Emotions can run high in the aftermath of a sex crime. The survivor may allege that you perpetrated the incident—even if you didn’t. In this scenario, our team can prove that you didn’t commit the crime, and that responsibility could rest with someone else.
Supporting information in your case may include:
- An alibi. We may assert that you were elsewhere when the alleged sex crime occurred. Evidence could include receipts from a grocery store or a dinner you were attending at the time. Other evidence could include video surveillance or photographic evidence of your whereabouts.
- A lack of DNA evidence. If there isn’t physical evidence tying you to the crime scene, we can further assert your innocence.
Your lawyer doesn’t have to prove your innocence. To secure a “not guilty” verdict, they must plant reasonable doubt in the jurors’ minds. In the eyes of the law, if there’s even the slightest chance that you didn’t commit a crime, the jury cannot find you guilty.
The Victim Provided Consent
If the case involves a survivor over the age of 18, we could fight that they provided consent before and during the alleged sex act. To prove the victim likely gave consent, we can provide evidence, such as text messages.
The Act Never Happened
Depending on the circumstances, our team can assert that the crime never happened. Similar to a case of mistaken identity, you could provide an alibi proving you weren’t at the location where the alleged crime occurred.
These are just some of the defenses we may employ on your behalf. Even though it may seem like the whole world’s against you, we’re on your side.
You Deserve to Know Your Options While Facing Sex Crime Charges
If convicted, you could face severe penalties. Don’t let a case of mistaken identity or another issue cause you to face negative consequences. Our team can help you.
As noted, at Gurion Legal, we offer free consultations to potential clients.
Here, you can expect:
- Answers to your questions
- Details about your case’s potential outcome
- Information on how our legal team can help you
- Guidance about your legal options
During our conversation, we hope to ease your fears and provide a positive outlook on your situation. Our team can help you avoid dealing with the harshest penalties that come with a conviction.
Schedule Your Free Consultation with a Phoenix Sex Crimes Lawyer at Gurion Legal
You face drastic consequences if you are convicted of a sex crime in Phoenix. In addition to a long—possibly lifelong—prison sentence, you may have to register as a sex offender for the rest of your life. With your personal and professional life at stake, you must not be cavalier when defending yourself against these allegations.
Let a lawyer with experience handling sex crimes cases like yours craft a strong defense on your behalf. If you have been charged with or are under investigation for a sex crime, contact the team at Gurion Legal today. Contact us online or call (480) 800-0020 now, so we can start working together to build your defense.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sex Crimes Charges in Arizona
As someone facing a criminal conviction, you have the right to get answers to your questions. Yet, you may feel embarrassed about seeking them out. Again, Gurion Legal is on your side throughout the trial process. We’ve even compiled some of the most common questions we get from others in your situation, including:
Can the Court Convict Me of a Crime I Didn’t Commit?
Yes. If the prosecution proves its case beyond a reasonable doubt, you could face consequences for a crime you truly didn’t commit. Yet, you have options if this happens. For instance, we could file an appeal if we believe legal proceedings weren’t fair the first time. Here, we may present additional information to bolster your case.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Sex Crime?
RAINN notes that, with many states, Arizona places a time limit on how long it has to pursue some sex crime cases. In many instances, the state has seven years from the date of identifying a possible perpetrator to initiate legal action. Yet, some criminal cases don’t come with deadlines, meaning the state can charge you at any time.
Our team can review how long ago the alleged sex crime happened and explain whether the state can pursue a case based on the applicable statute of limitations.
Has Gurion Legal Won Sex Crime Cases Before?
Our team has achieved successful outcomes for sex abuse defendants in the past.
Some of our stories include:
- Our client was unhappy with his lawyer and secured us late in his case. The state charged him with sexual misconduct with a minor. By utilizing key evidence, we got his case dismissed.
- Our client was charged with vulnerable adult abuse after a senior accused them of inappropriate touching. We knew these claims were baseless from the start, and we convinced the state to drop the charges.
- Jury trial acquittals and hung juries.
