Phoenix, AZ Sex Crime Defense Lawyers

If you are under investigation for, or charged with, an alleged Arizona Sex Crime, with proper legal representation, you will feel secure knowing that you are in good hands. The Phoenix, AZ sex crime defense lawyers at The Gillespie Law Firm, P.C. have successfully defended many clients charged with alleged sex offenses in the State of Arizona and are often able to reduce, dismiss, and alter the charges against individuals who have been accused of a sex crime. The Phoenix criminal lawyers at our firm can handle all of the aspects of your case. We will strongly advocate your case at all times, yet do so in a discrete manner, as we recognize that your reputation and your future are at stake. If you choose to retain our law firm, our sex crime lawyers in Phoenix, AZ will provide the highest level of criminal defense representation available.

Allegations generically referred to as “sex crimes” include numerous criminal offenses including Rape (Sexual Assault), Sexual Conduct With a Minor, Child Molestation, Possession and Distribution of Child Pornography (including on the internet), Prostitution, Solicitation of Prostitution, Indecent Exposure, and Sexual Abuse. An accusation of any sex offense must be taken very seriously, as the consequences can be devastating.

Arizona Sex crimes vary in type and by severity of punishment. Depending on the nature of the offense, sex crimes that do not involve children can be charged as either misdemeanor or felony offenses. Sex crimes in Arizona that involve minors may be charged as “Dangerous Crimes Against Children” (DCAC).

An accusation of any sex crime must be taken very seriously, as a conviction will often result in a long term incarceration in state prison, required registration as a sex offender, and lifetime probation. For example, in Arizona, engaging in internet child pornography can result in a charge of sexual exploitation of a minor. In addition, engaging in internet child pornography can result in a Federal charge under the Child Pornography Prevention Act of 1996. Under this act, one who knowingly receives or distributes child pornography via the internet (or by any other means) can be imprisoned for up to 15 years for the first offense.

Arizona’s mandatory sentencing for sex offenses involving children are some of the toughest in the country. For example, the minimum sentence for one count of Sexual Conduct with a Minor under the age of 15 is 13 years imprisonment. The presumptive term is 20 years and the aggravated term is 27 years. All of the terms of imprisonment must be served day for day: there is no applicable “good time” or early release provision. The term of imprisonment for Sexual Conduct with a Minor must be served consecutively to any other sentence imposed. Under certain circumstances, a defendant charged with a Dangerous Crimes Against Children sex offense can negotiate to have the charge reduced, which may make them eligible for probation.

The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed each element of the alleged sex offense. The available defenses vary greatly from case to case, but may include consent, insufficient evidence, mistaken identity, illegal search and seizure, and other defenses. In many cases, certain circumstances unique to the defendant or the particular case may reduce or negate the defendant’s criminal culpability. An experienced sex crimes defense lawyer in Phoenix, AZ will ensure that the prosecutor has not ignored favorable evidence and will gather evidence to support the defense.

Often sex offense acts have no witnesses. Consequently, sex offenses are frequently prosecuted on thin evidence or accusations of individuals lacking credibility. False charges of molestation or sexual assault are common, with motives including jealousy, revenge, attention, or cover up. To properly defend against such cases, background information regarding the accuser and the context in which the allegations were made is often vital. If you or a loved one has been arrested or charged with a sex offense in Arizona, the most important call you can make will be to an experienced Phoenix sex crime attorney, so he or she can begin investigating your case as soon as possible. Violating Arizona sex offense laws can bring very severe penalties and alter your life forever. Penalties may include fines, being required to register as a sex offender, losing rights to see your children, jail terms, or long prison sentences. An aggressive and experienced sex crimes defense lawyer in Phoenix, AZ will help you obtain the best results under the particular law and facts of your case and may be able to get your charges reduced and, in some cases, dismissed.

Craig Gillespie and his fellow defense lawyers at The Gillespie Law Firm, P.C. have successfully represented many clients charged with different sex crimes, including:

If you have been accused of a sex offense in Arizona, you need to consult with an experienced Arizona criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Be proactive – don’t wait for an arrest. An experienced sex crimes attorney can help you through the investigation process.

The Gillespie Law Firm will:

• Gather important factual information
• Provide advice and insulate you from police contact
• Contact the detective in charge of the case
• Talk to the prosecutor assigned to the case
• Immediately begin our own investigation of the case
• Under certain circumstances, arrange for private polygraph testing
• Appear with you if you are charged and taken before the court
• Schedule a “risk assessment” with an expert
• Defend your rights at every step of the legal process
• Make sure all aspects of your case are properly explored
• Represent you aggressively at all times in court and in negotiations

The Gillespie Law Firm Phoenix, AZ sex crimes defense attorneys are dedicated to protecting their client’s legal rights and making sure they are represented fairly and equally in a court of law. Please contact us by calling 602.253.1010 or complete the Contact Us form for an immediate response.