Sexual Conduct with a Minor
Criminal Defence
Defending Against Sexual Conduct with a Minor Demands a Highly Experienced Attorney
Sexual conduct with a minor is a serious crime in Arizona, carrying severe penalties, including mandatory sex offender registration and potential life imprisonment. The definition of sexual conduct with a minor is broad, and defending such charges requires specialized legal expertise. It’s crucial to contact an attorney with experience in this area of criminal law.
If you’ve been charged with sexual misconduct with a minor, your immediate priority should be to reach out to a lawyer who can help you understand the charges and work towards the best possible outcome. The experienced sex crime defense attorneys at Rowley Chapman & Barney, Ltd. have in-depth knowledge of Arizona law and a proven track record in defending clients accused of sexual conduct with minors.
If you’re accused or arrested, contact us first! We are available 24/7.
Call Brian Strong at (480) 833-2341.
Why Choose a Defense Attorney for Sexual Conduct with a Minor Charges?
- To defend the innocent
- To protect essential rights
- To challenge police actions or exclude evidence
- To ensure the punishment is appropriate and fair
- To find expert witnesses
- To consult polygraph experts
How Does Arizona Define Sexual Conduct with a Minor?
Arizona Revised Statute (ARS) 12-1405 defines sexual conduct with a minor as intentionally or knowingly engaging in sexual intercourse or oral sexual contact with someone under eighteen years of age.
According to ARS § 13-1401, “Sexual Intercourse” includes penetration of the penis, vulva, or anus by any part of the body or object, as well as masturbatory contact with the penis or vulva.
Penalties vary based on the circumstances. For example:
Sexual conduct with a minor under fifteen is a class 2 felony and a Dangerous Crime Against Children.
Sexual conduct with a minor at least fifteen years old is a class 6 felony.
If the minor is at least fifteen and the person is a parent, stepparent, adoptive parent, legal guardian, foster parent, teacher, clergyman, or priest, it is classified as a class 2 felony.
In any case, a conviction for sexual conduct with a minor carries severe criminal penalties that can result in the loss of freedom and a tarnished reputation.
What if I’m charged with Sexual Conduct with a Minor?
In Arizona, sexual conduct with a minor is one of the few offenses where a person can be held without bond, meaning that if arrested for this crime, an individual may be required to remain in jail until the case is resolved. Because of this, it’s crucial to hire a sex crime attorney with the experience and skills to handle the unique aspects of these cases and work quickly towards a resolution.
There are many reasons someone could be falsely accused, and several ways the case can be managed to achieve a favorable result, including dismissal or acquittal. It’s also essential to choose a defense attorney who understands law enforcement’s investigative techniques, as officers sometimes fail to fully investigate, leading to unjust charges. A qualified sex crime lawyer can review the case and evidence immediately to protect your rights.
The criminal defense team at Rowley Chapman & Barney has extensive experience and training in handling sex crimes, including sexual conduct with a minor.
What Are the Penalties for Sexual Conduct with a Minor?
The penalties for sexual conduct with a minor vary depending on the offense:
Class 6 Offense: The minimum sentence can range from probation to a two-year prison term. A conviction requires sex offender registration and may prohibit contact with minors, including the accused’s own children.
Class 2 Offense (Minor under 15): The minimum sentence is 13 years, with a maximum of 27 years in prison.
Multiple Counts: If charged with multiple counts, each sentence is served consecutively. For example, if convicted of two separate counts, the individual faces a mandatory sentence ranging from 26 years to 54 years in prison.
Child Under 12: If the victim is under 12 and the offense involves penetration or oral sex, the minimum sentence is life in prison, with eligibility for parole only after serving 35 years.
Class 2 Offense (Child 15-18): If the accused is a parent, stepparent, adoptive parent, legal guardian, foster parent, teacher, clergyman, or priest, the minimum sentence is 3 to 12.5 years in prison, and the individual is required to register as a sex offender.
Your Defense for Sexual Conduct with a Minor – We’re Here to Help!
If you’ve been accused or charged with sexual misconduct involving a minor, an experienced defense attorney can assist in challenging the charges, exploring potential defenses, negotiating plea deals, and finding other solutions. The sex crime defense attorneys at Rowley Chapman & Barney, Ltd. bring extensive experience in handling cases involving sexual misconduct with minors. With a background in law enforcement and prosecution, they are uniquely qualified to guide you through your case.
