Introduction
In Arizona, sexual assault and abuse charges are complicated and extensive. If you’ve been charged with a sexual assault or sexual abuse crime, the attorneys at JacksonWhite Law can help. At our office in Mesa, Arizona, we offer free case consultations to people facing sexual assault charges throughout Arizona.
Our criminal attorneys Jeremy Geigle, John Dosdall, Ashelee Weeks, Wade Tanner and Adam Ashby have more than 40 years of combined experience fighting for the rights of their clients specifically in areas like sexual assault and abuse.
To see how we can help with your sexual assault charges, call us today at (480) 467-4370 or tell us more about your case.
Sexual Assault & Abuse in Mesa, Arizona
In Arizona, “rape” is not a legal term. Instead, the terms “sexual assault” and “sexual abuse” are used to describe when someone commits these crimes. In general, sexual assault in Arizona is defined by ARS 13-1406 as engaging in “sexual intercourse or oral sexual contact” with a person without their consent.
Sexual abuse, as defined by ARS 13-1404, is engaging in sexual contact with someone 15 years or older without their consent, and there are other circumstances that also apply. Sexual abuse includes any type of sexual contact, including groping, fondling and inappropriate touching. The deciding factor in sexual abuse types is the age of the victim and where they were contacted.
If you’re facing sexual assault or sexual abuse charges in Mesa, Arizona, we can help explain the potential penalties and how we might potentially reduce your penalties or have your charges dismissed altogether.
Penalties for Sexual Assault and Abuse
Sexual assault in Arizona is a class 2 felony, and Maricopa County is known for vigorously prosecuting sexual assault defendants. Depending on the type of offense, prior convictions and details of the case, you may be facing anywhere from 5.25 to 28 years in prison. The defendant would also be required to register as a sex offender and would have a permanent criminal record.
If the sexual assault was committed with “intentional or knowing infliction of serious physical injury,” that can lead to a lifetime prison sentence.
Sexual abuse is a class 5 felony, but if the victim is under 15, it’s considered a class 3 felony that carries a minimum penalty of 2.5 years in prison. If you’re found guilty and the victim is under 18, you would be required to register as a sex offender in Arizona. In general, the penalties of the case will depend on the age of the victim and the circumstances of the contact.
It is possible, however, to have felony charges reduced to misdemeanor charges with the right sexual assault defense team and approach.
Defending Against Mesa Sexual Assault & Abuse Charges
Though Maricopa County prosecutes these crimes aggressively, it is possible to have your charges reduced or dismissed. At JacksonWhite Law, we have decades of experience fighting for the rights of our assault clients, and we’ve developed tried-and-true approaches to a defense that works. There are also cases of false accusations and inaccurate information that make it possible to have a successful outcome to your assault case.
Depending on the details of your case, it may be possible to prove that the contact was consensual, or that there were other mitigating factors affecting the situation. Our defense team has experience and success setting up these defenses in a way that can minimize your penalties or charges, and lead to the best possible outcome.
Case Results for Our Assault Clients
We have successful case results in all types of assault, sexual assault, abuse and other violent crimes. Here’s a look at some of our most recent assault results.
Client: One count domestic violence, assault
Court: Phoenix Municipal Court
Our results: One-year diversion program
To see more of our case victories, view our results page.
Other Types of Sexual Crimes in Mesa
In addition to sexual abuse and sexual assault, we also help defendants facing charges related to indecent exposure (ARS 13-1402), public sexual indecency, sexual conduct with a minor and molestation of a child. If you’re facing any of these types of sexual charges, contact our office to learn more about how we can help you today.
We can also help with general criminal charges like domestic violence, drug crimes and more.
Mesa Sexual Assault Lawyers Available 24/7
Our criminal lawyers understand how challenging it can be to face sexual assault charges. That’s why we work with tireless compassion to help all our clients get the best case outcomes possible, whether that’s reduced charges, minimized penalties or even dismissed cases. We offer effective and affordable representation that puts you in the best position in the Arizona justice system.
To see how we can help with your case, call (480) 467-4370 for your free sexual assault case consultation now.
Mesa Location
Address: 40 N. Center St, Mesa, AZ 85201
Phone number: (480) 467-4370
