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Phoenix Sex Crimes Lawyer

It’s difficult enough having a criminal charge of any kind hanging over your head. But when the offense is one the various sex crimes, the effect can be devastating and immediate. It seems as if people assume you are guilty in the face of little or no knowledge about your case, and often brand you as a sex offender based solely on the unsubstantiated allegations against you.

At Feldman & Royle, we understand the importance of utilizing an experienced Arizona sex crimes lawyer. We understand the stigma and the fear that accompanies these types of charges and we work hard so that our clients’ rights are protected, and that they are afforded the best chance of a dismissal, a reduced charge, or a not guilty verdict. If you’re facing charges for any type of sex crime, don’t panic—schedule a free consultation with our experienced Phoenix sex crimes attorney today.
Sexual crimes definition

What is a Sex Offense in Arizona?

In Arizona, a sex offense includes crimes such as sexual assault, statutory rape, prostitution, child molestation, sexual conduct, indecent exposure, and exploitation. These are serious charges with severe legal consequences if convicted.

Sex Crimes Attorneys in Phoenix

Facing a sex crime charge in Phoenix is a serious matter that can carry lifelong consequences. At Feldman & Royle, our experienced sex crimes attorneys understand the gravity of these charges and the impact they can have on your future, reputation, and freedom. Our legal team is dedicated to providing a robust, strategic defense for clients accused of sex crimes in Phoenix. Arizona has some of the strictest penalties for sex-related offenses, and these cases often involve complex evidence and sensitive circumstances. Let's understand the types of sex crimes commonly charged in Arizona:
Understanding Sex Crimes

Understanding
Sex Crimes
in Arizona

The fact that you have been charged with a “sex crime” does not begin to explain the classification of the crime or the potential penalties. Sex crimes in Arizona range from misdemeanors to serious felonies, and the punishments can extend from probation and fines to years in prison. The following are types of sex crimes commonly charged in Arizona:

Sexual Extortion

Sexual extortion under ARS 13-1428 occurs when a person threatens or coerces another person into engaging in certain sexual activates. Sexual extortion is generally a class 3 felony under Arizona law but can be a class 2 felony and require a mandatory prison sentence pursuant to A.R.S. § 13-705 if the victim is under 15.

Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse pursuant to ARS 13 1404, involves having sexual contact with someone who is either at least 15 years of age but without consent or; under the age of 15 if the contact involves only contact with the female breast.

Statutory Rape

Known in Arizona as sexual conduct with a minor, the offense involves having intercourse with a person under the age of 18. It is a class 6 felony. If the victim is 14 or under, or in the case of persons in certain positions of trust, it is a class 2 felony and may require mandatory prison.

Prostitution

Whether offering prostitution services or accepting services, it is a crime under Arizona law. Prostitution is generally a class 1 misdemeanor, however, if convicted there is a minimum jail sentence that must be served under law. Prostitution offenses involves a minor or procuring, pimping and others are felonies, and many require mandatory prison sentences.

Child Pornography

Child pornography or sexual exploitation of a minor, pursuant to ARS 13 3553 includes the possession, distribution or production of the visual depiction of a minor engaged in exploitive exhibition” or other sexual conduct.

Child Molestation

Child molestation involves having sexual contact with a person under the age of 15. The term “sexual contact,” means the touching, fondling or manipulating of the genitals or anus. Sexual contact with only the female breast does not constitute child molestation, however, is criminalized by ARS 13 1404 as sexual abuse.

Child Luring

Child luring pursuant to ARS 13-3554 requires making an offer or solicitation for sexual conduct with a person who you know or have reason to believe, is a minor. Child luring is often charged after an undercover child sex sting.

Indecent exposure

Indecent exposure could be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending upon the age of the victim, and whether the defendant has prior convictions under the statute.

Child prostitution

Child prostitution in Arizona is a serious offense prosecuted under A.R.S. § 13-3212, involving any person who knowingly engages, solicits, or causes a minor to engage in prostitution. This crime is classified as a felony and carries severe penalties, including mandatory prison time, especially when the victim is under 15 years old. A conviction can also lead to lifetime registration as a sex offender. Arizona law treats child prostitution as a grave threat to minors and public safety.

Surreptitious recording

Surreptitious recording under A.R.S. § 13-3019 involves secretly photographing, videotaping, or recording someone without their consent in a private setting where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy. In Arizona, this offense is considered a serious invasion of privacy and is typically charged as a felony. Penalties may include prison time, fines, and mandatory registration depending on the circumstances. If the recording involves sexual content or a minor, the consequences can be significantly more severe under Arizona law.

Sexual Assault

Commonly called “rape,” sexual assault consists of engaging in sexual intercourse with another person without that person’s consent. It is a class 2 felony, and the statute, A.R.S. § 13-1406, contains special sentencing guidelines with a minimum term of incarceration. The minimum could increase based upon your prior criminal history.

Revenge porn

Revenge porn in Arizona, as addressed under A.R.S. § 13-1425, involves the unlawful distribution of intimate images or videos without the subject’s consent, typically to harm, embarrass, or harass them. This offense is treated seriously and is generally classified as a class 5 felony. However, the charge can escalate depending on the circumstances, including the victim’s age or repeated conduct. Arizona law imposes strict penalties to deter such invasions of privacy and protect victims from emotional and reputational harm.

Voyeurism

Voyeurism in Arizona, under A.R.S. § 13-1424, occurs when someone secretly observes, records, or photographs another person without consent, typically in situations where privacy is expected—like bathrooms or bedrooms. This offense is often charged as a felony and can carry severe penalties, especially if minors are involved or the images are distributed. A conviction for voyeurism may lead to prison time, fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender, making it essential to understand the legal implications and available defenses.

Failure to register

Failure to register as a sex offender in Arizona, as required by law, is a serious offense under A.R.S. § 13-3821. Individuals convicted of certain sex crimes must comply with registration requirements, and failing to do so can lead to felony charges. Depending on the circumstances, this violation may be classified as a class 4 felony and result in prison time. Arizona takes these obligations seriously, and noncompliance can trigger significant legal consequences, especially for repeat offenders or those on probation.

Public Sexual Indecency

This offense involves engaging in sexual conduct of various forms where another person is present, and where the actor(s) are reckless about whether the other person would be offended by the conduct. It is a class 1 misdemeanor, unless the other person is a minor under 15 years of age, in which case it is a class 5 felony.
Defenses

Defense Against Sex Crimes in Phoenix AZ

Will I have to Register as a Sex Offender?

One of the great fears of those charged with sex crimes is that they may have to register as a sex offender. In that case, their identity will be available for all to see online, along with the crime of which they have been convicted. In addition, sex registration requires annual updates to law enforcement.

A.R.S. § 13-3821 sets forth the conditions that would require sex offender registration. It includes numerous sex crimes, but not all such offenses are listed. And in some cases, registration is only required after a second or subsequent conviction for a particular offense.

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Can You Get a Sex Crime Expunged?

From our years of experience as Sex Crime Lawyers - the answer to this question depends on the type of sex crime offense of which you were convicted. Arizona doesn’t have pure expungement, only the ability to have the conviction set aside. However, you are not eligible to have a crime set aside if it is:

  • A felony offense involving a victim under the age of 15;
  • An offense with a finding of sexual motivation under A.R.S. § 13-118;
  • A sex offenses requiring registration under A.R.S. § 13-3821.

Because most sex crimes fall into one of those categories, generally having a sex crime expunged or set aside under Arizona law is uncommon. There is one major exception for having a sex crime expunged, however. Under A.R.S. § 13-909, if a person was convicted of a charge of prostitution and it is found that their participation was a direct result of being a victim of sex trafficking, then the conviction can be vacated entirely.

What is the sex crimes Statute of Limitations?

Because the term “sex crimes” has such a broad definition and encompasses so many crimes, there is no one answer to this question. Sex crimes statute of limitations pursuant to A.R.S. § 13-107, can range from 1 year in misdemeanor sex crimes cases to an indefinite time period for a violent sexual assault.

SEX CRIMES LAWYER IN PHOENIX

Experience is the best indication of whether a particular attorney will be able to provide you with the quality representation you need when facing a sex crime charge. Finding a sex crimes lawyer with the required experience is of the utmost importance when defending charges as serious as many sex crimes. As criminal defense lawyers in Phoenix, we have a proven track record of success and have represented hundreds of people charged with all types of sex crimes. We provide a free and confidential consultation to discuss your case details and strategize a defense.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Incident Occured in Arizona?

A sex crime is any criminal offense that involves illegal or non-consensual sexual activity or behavior. These crimes typically involve violations of another person's sexual autonomy, and the legal definitions can vary slightly depending on the jurisdiction.

In Arizona, sex crimes encompass a range of offenses, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, child molestation, sexual conduct with a minor, indecent exposure, and public sexual indecency. These crimes can vary in severity from misdemeanors to serious felonies, each carrying distinct legal consequences. 

Penalties for sex crimes in Arizona are stringent and can include lengthy prison sentences, mandatory sex offender registration, probation, and substantial fines. The exact punishment depends on the specific offense, the circumstances surrounding the case, and any prior criminal history.

Yes, individuals convicted of certain sex crimes in Arizona are required to register as sex offenders. Offenses such as sexual abuse of a minor, kidnapping a minor (not one's own child), sexual assault, and sexual conduct with a minor necessitate registration. The duration and level of registration depend on the offense's severity and other factors.

A DCAC in Arizona refers to specific serious offenses committed against minors under 15 years old, such as sexual conduct with a minor, child molestation, and sexual exploitation. Convictions for DCACs carry enhanced penalties, including longer prison terms and stricter probation conditions.

Absolutely. False accusations can and do occur. A skilled Phoenix sec crimes defense attorney can challenge the credibility of the accuser, present alibi evidence, question the validity of forensic evidence, and highlight inconsistencies in testimonies to build a robust defense.

A misdemeanor sex crime is a less severe sexual offense compared to a felony, but it still carries legal consequences such as jail time, fines, probation, and possible sex offender registration.

A felony sex crime is a serious criminal offense involving illegal sexual conduct that is classified as a felony under state or federal law. Felony sex crimes are more severe than misdemeanor offenses and typically carry harsh penalties, including long prison sentences, hefty fines, and mandatory sex offender registration.

DISCLAIMER: The material found on this website is intended solely for informational purposes. Nothing on this website is intended to constitute legal advice specific to any individual or case. No information provided, e-mail inquiry generated, or reply from our firm through this website establishes an attorney-client relationship
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