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:
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 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.
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 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 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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
