Duncan Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer

The whispers that follow you when you are accused of committing a sex crime can destroy your reputation forever. If you are charged criminally, not only do you need to worry about protecting your reputation, but you need to do everything you can to defend yourself. Few allegations are as devastating as those surrounding sex offenses, and working with a high-powered Duncan sex crimes defense lawyer may be your best option if you hope to clear your name.

A leading Duncan criminal defense lawyer with Suzuki Law Offices is here to help you through this stressful time in your life 24/7. It is important that you fully understand the ramifications that come with a guilty verdict so you can present the strongest defense strategy possible based on the circumstances of your case. Contact our law office to schedule a confidential case evaluation today so you can learn more about potentially suitable defenses, whether the state has a strong case against you, and what to expect from the Arizona criminal justice system.

We Are Prepared to Challenge Virtually Any Sex Offense in Greenlee County

Working with a Duncan sex crimes defense attorney may be necessary when you are facing serious criminal charges, including and especially sex offenses. We have considerable experience advocating for the innocent and defending the accused, so you can rely on your criminal defense lawyer to challenge the evidence against you. Examples of potential sex offenses you could be accused of committing include:

• Child molestation under ARS §13-1410
• Child prostitution under ARS §13-3206
• Creation, distribution, or possession of child pornography under ARS §13-3553
• Internet sex crimes under ARS §13-1425
• Prostitution under ARS §13-3214
• Rape under ARS §13-1406
• Sexual abuse under ARS §13-1404
• Sexual conduct with a minor under ARS §13-1405
• Solicitation under ARS §13-1002

If convicted, you could be facing a lengthy prison sentence. Many sex crimes come with mandatory minimum sentences as described by the Supreme Court State of Arizona Criminal Code Sentencing Provisions. Additionally, you could be required to register on the Arizona Sex Offender Registry, possibly for the rest of your life.

Duncan Sex Crimes FAQ

How Long Does the Prosecutor Have to File Sex Crime Charges in AZ?

There are several potential statutes of limitations in place that will vary depending on the type of sex offense you have been accused of committing. The classification of your crime will determine how long the district attorney has to file formal charges, so any sex crime that is considered a misdemeanor generally carries a statute of limitations of one year, while a felony sex crime has a statute of limitations of seven years per ARS §13-107. However, several sex offenses have no statute of limitations or time limit. These include:

• Child sex trafficking
• Class two felony sexual exploitation of a child
• Class two felony sex crimes
• Violent sexual assault

It is important to keep in mind that it is not only the criminal statute of limitations you need to be aware of. It is not uncommon for alleged victims of sex offenses to pursue civil liability claims against the alleged perpetrators and other parties who may have facilitated the abuse. The statute of limitations for civil sexual abuse claims may be much longer than the criminal statute of limitations deadline.

Can a Sex Crime Be Expunged?

No, most sex offenses are not eligible for record sealing under ARS §13-911. There are specific crimes that will remain on your criminal record indefinitely. These include:

• Aggravated or violent felonies
• Dangerous crimes against children
• Violent crimes, such as murder
• Offenses involving dangerous weapons or instruments
• Any crime that involves knowingly inflicting severe bodily injury on someone else

To be eligible for sealing your record, the waiting period must have passed, you must have no criminal charges pending, and you must have completed the terms of your sentence. Once these requirements have been met, the judge may be more willing to expunge your record. If your petition is denied, you have the right to request a hearing under ARS §36-2862.

Does Arizona Have the Romeo and Juliet Defense?

Arizona’s Romeo and Juliet law is found under ARS §13-1407(E). Here, if younger couples engage in consensual sexual activity, they may be able to avoid criminal charges. However, these laws only apply if:

• The activity was consensual
• There is no more than two years between both parties
• The alleged victim is 15, 16, or 17 years of age
• The defendant is still in high school or under the age of 19.

Will I Get Bail if I Am Accused of Committing a Sex Crime?

You could be granted bail if you are charged with a sex crime, but it will depend on several different factors. If there were aggravating factors present, such as the use of a firearm or other weapon, you could also be facing stacked charges or be accused of committing a violent crime – if this happens, the judge may be less willing to grant you bail, or, they could set bail so high that you cannot afford to post bond. Some of the other factors the judge may take into account include:

• Whether you are a threat to society
• Whether you are a threat to yourself or your family
• Whether you are a flight risk
• Whether you have ties to the community
• Whether you appear remorseful

If the judge does grant bail, there are a couple of different ways you can go about posting a bond. Your family can cover the cost, you could work with a bail bondsman or use assets as collateral. If the judge does not consider you a threat to the community, and you are a first-time offender, a sex crimes lawyer in Duncan may even be able to argue that you should be released on your own recognizance (ROR).

Turn to a Trial-Proven Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer in Duncan Today 

Between fines and prison and the requirement that you register as a sex offender, life as you knew it before your sex crime trial is virtually over. Now, all you can do is protect your future and do what you can to avoid the harsh penalties that will follow if you are convicted. With the support and resources of a top-rated sex crimes defense attorney in Duncan from Suzuki Law Offices, you stand a strong chance of being able to rebuild your life if you are acquitted or your criminal defense lawyer can negotiate a plea deal with the district attorney.

You can rely on our legal team to fight tirelessly for your rights. When you are ready to trust your defense to a team of highly experienced private criminal defenders, look no further than Suzuki Law Offices. Fill out our secured contact form or call our office to schedule your confidential consultation and take back control of your future as soon as today.

Call or text 602-682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form