Avondale Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Avondale Sexual Abuse Attorney

An Avondale sexual abuse lawyer may be your first line of defense if you are facing sexual abuse charges in Avondale. Sexual abuse is a type of violent crime that is met with serious consequences if you are convicted. Contacting a qualified and skilled Avondale criminal defense lawyer may be your only option for receiving justice and a fair trial.

Sexual crimes are serious crimes in Arizona. Whether the crime is sexual assault, abuse, or exploitation, defendants could spend a long time in prison if they are found guilty. At Grand Canyon Law Group, we have experience litigating sexual abuse cases with compassion and zero judgment. We understand the sensitivity and nuance in these cases and are eager to help our clients receive justice or lower their sentences if the circumstances warrant it.

What Is Sexual Abuse in Arizona?

In Arizona, sexual abuse is a serious crime defined as intentional and nonconsensual sexual contact with a person over 15 years old or sexual contact involving the female breasts if the person is under 15. Sexual abuse is defined under Arizona Statute § 13-1404.

A person can still be charged with sexual abuse even if they claim the victim consented, if the victim was between 15 and 17 years old, and the defendant was a person of trust. A person of trust includes a parent, guardian, stepparent, coach, teacher, or member of the clergy.

Sexual abuse may include fondling, touching, or groping another person’s genitalia or using an object to do so without their permission. For example, one man was sexually assaulted at Copper Springs Behavioral Health Facility in Avondale by a stranger using a pen.  Even reaching out to touch a woman’s breast without their permission can be considered sexual abuse.

Penalty for Sexual Abuse in Arizona

Sexual abuse in Arizona is a class 5 felony unless the victim is a minor, in which case it is considered a class 3 felony. The punishment for a class 5 felony is six months minimum and a 2-year maximum unless the person has prior convictions or there were aggravating factors. Since sexual abuse against a minor is considered a dangerous crime against a child, the punishment can be serving between 13 and 27 years in prison, unless they are sentenced to life imprisonment.

Sexual Abuse Statute of Limitations in Arizona

Like most felony offenses, the statute of limitations for sexual abuse is seven years. However, if the crime was against a minor or if there was a violent crime associated with the sexual abuse, there is no statute of limitations. That means the victim can file a claim at any time after the instance of abuse occurred.

Contact an Experienced Sexual Abuse Lawyer Today

Being charged with sexual abuse can be life-changing and devastating, especially if you are charged with sexual abuse of a minor. However, in some cases, there are defenses available to you, and we are here to build upon those defenses at Grand Canyon Law Group. Don’t hesitate to contact us today if you are facing serious charges. We are here to protect and defend your rights.

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480-400-5555

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