Phoenix Sex Crime Defense Attorneys

What Are the Penalties for a Sex Crime Conviction?

A conviction for a sex crime can profoundly impact your life. Potential penalties include substantial fines, prison time, severe reputational damage, and lifetime sex offender registration, which can significantly limit where you live and work. 

While it can be terrifying to face a sex crime charge, working with our experienced attorneys can make a meaningful difference. We can analyze the evidence against you and work diligently to mitigate the consequences of a conviction. 

When Is Sex Offender Registration Mandatory in Arizona?

Sex offender registration is mandatory for anyone convicted of certain sex offenses, such as sexual assault, sexual conduct with a minor, molestation of a child, sexual exploitation, and other qualifying crimes under A.R.S. § 13-3821. Registration is typically a lifelong requirement for adult offenders, and the possibility of termination is highly restricted (A.R.S. § 13-3826).

Offenders must register in person at the County Sheriff’s Office, appear annually for renewals, and report changes to their address, employment, and online identifiers within 72 hours. Registrants must also obtain a specific MVD credential and provide vehicle information for any vehicle they operate. Failure to meet these requirements can lead to felony charges and fines. 

We understand how dehumanizing it can feel to register as a sex offender and are committed to minimizing the long-term impacts of a conviction on your life. Our attorneys can evaluate whether mandatory registration applies to your case and negotiate a plea deal or alternative sentencing if possible to safeguard your freedom. 

Does Arizona Have a Romeo & Juliet Law?

In Arizona, the legal age of consent is 18. This means that individuals under the age of 18 cannot legally consent to sexual activity. However, state law also includes a close-in-age exemption (also known as a “Romeo and Juliet law”) that is intended to distinguish between predatory behavior and age-appropriate relationships (A.R.S. § 13-1407).

This exemption can provide limited legal protection to young adults in consensual sexual relationships when the following criteria are met: 

• The sexual conduct must be consensual.
• The younger party must be between the ages of 15 and 17.
• The older party must be under the age of 19 (or currently attending high school) and no more than 24 months older than the younger party. 

If you’re accused of a sex crime involving a minor, we can review your situation, identify valid defenses or exemptions that apply to your case, and develop a tailored strategy to reduce or dismiss the charges against you. 

Common Defenses Against Sex Crime Charges

Some common defenses against sex crimes include:

Consent

If the sexual act was consensual, we can file a motion to drop the charge. 

Entrapment

If police induced you to commit a crime that you would not have committed otherwise, we can advocate for a dismissal on the grounds of entrapment.

Mistaken Identity

If you were mistakenly identified as the perpetrator, we can collect compelling evidence to establish an alibi. 

False Allegations

If you were falsely accused due to ulterior motives, we can challenge unreliable witness testimony to prove your innocence. 

Insufficient Evidence

The prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is insufficient evidence to meet the burden of proof, we can fight to dismiss the charge.

Facing a sex crime charge can be intimidating, but you don’t have to fight it alone. Call (480) 864-3807 to schedule a consultation with our skilled defense lawyers.