Sex Trafficking Attorney in Glendale, AZ
Sex trafficking charges are some of the most serious sex offenses and can even be charged federally. Conviction not only results in serious fines and imprisonment but can even require registration as a sex offender. It is essential that you protect your future and freedom by working with a Glendale sex trafficking lawyer.
Without a Glendale sex crime lawyer, you can face harsh penalties, a social stigma that affects your familial and social life, and a criminal record that harms future opportunities.
For a free legal consultation with a sex trafficking lawyer serving Glendale, call 480-400-5555
Find the Right Glendale Sex Trafficking Attorney
The Glendale defense attorneys at Grand Canyon Law Group fight for you and provide compassionate guidance in each part of the case. We can help you understand the charges against you, the potential penalties, and what the prosecution needs to prove to convict you. Our firm has experience with the local courts in Maricopa County. We listen to your situation and investigate the case against you to determine the right defense.
There are a lot of nuances in sex trafficking cases, and the alleged position you had in the case impacts the defense. Our team understands these nuances and knows how to craft an effective defense. We pride ourselves on honest and transparent legal representation to support you. We put you first, and fight for the fairness you deserve.
Glendale Sex Trafficking Lawyer Near Me 480-400-5555
Sex Trafficking Laws in Glendale
In Arizona, sex trafficking laws make it illegal for a person to knowingly traffic another person who is 18 or older with either:
- The intent to use deception, force, or coercion to lead that person to engage in prostitution or sexual performance
- The knowledge that deception, coercion, or force will be used to have that person engage in prostitution or sexual performance
Sex trafficking of a minor under the age of 18 is a separate criminal offense. In 2024, the Glendale Police Department reported 16 offenses for human trafficking related to commercial sex acts and two offenses for human trafficking related to involuntary servitude. In all of Arizona in the same year, there were 140 offenses of commercial sex act human trafficking, and six offenses for involuntary servitude human trafficking.
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Defining Sex Trafficking
Understanding the definitions of sex trafficking is important to understanding the possible defenses. Important definitions related to sex trafficking include:
- Traffic means you entice, harbor, transport, recruit, provide, or obtain some other person.
- Sexually explicit performance refers to an act or show, performed live, made with the intention of satisfying or appealing to the sexual desires of attendees.
- Coercion includes several actions, including extortion, threatening or causing financial harm, controlling the person’s access to controlled substances, abusing the legal system, or somehow controlling a person’s passport or immigration documents through destruction, possession, or confiscation.
- Force means causing actual serious harm or restraining a person or threatening to cause serious harm to a person.
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Penalties for Sex Trafficking
If you are convicted of a sex trafficking offense, it is a Class 2 felony. If it is your first felony offense, the presumptive sentence is five years of imprisonment, with a range of four to ten years. Conviction will also result in a fine, which has a maximum limit of $150,000.
If you are convicted of this offense and you are a repeat felony offender, the penalties can be much more severe. Depending on the category of repeat offender, penalties for a class 2 felony can range from a minimum of four to a maximum of 10 years, to a minimum of 14 years and a maximum of 28 years of imprisonment.
Trafficking of a minor is also a class 2 felony, but has unique and more severe imprisonment ranges. It also carries the requirement for registration as a sex offender. You are also not eligible for the suspension of your sentence except in very specific circumstances.
FAQs About Sex Trafficking Glendale, AZ
What Defenses Are Used for Sex Trafficking?
There are numerous potential defenses for sex trafficking, depending on the circumstances of your case in Glendale, AZ. This may include challenging that force, fraud, or coercion was used in the offense. It may also include arguing the lack of intent to commit the offense.
Another method used is filing to suppress evidence that was illegally obtained. This can connect to a lack of evidence defense, where the prosecution cannot meet its burden of proof. A defense could challenge the alleged victim’s credibility.
What Is the Palermo Protocol?
The Palermo Protocol is a general assembly resolution made by the United Nations that created an international definition of human trafficking. It exists to ensure that UN countries criminalize the offense and create anti-trafficking laws to protect victims and prosecute offenders. The protocol also ensures that victims have their rights respected and receive assistance.
Why Do I Need to Hire a Sex Trafficking Lawyer in Glendale?
You need to hire a sex trafficking lawyer in Glendale to navigate the criminal justice system, protect your rights, and potentially lower or avoid the consequences of the offense you are charged with. Your defense attorney assesses the trafficking charges you face, listens to your story, and determines the most useful defense. They help you understand the situation you are in and advise you on beneficial strategies when handling your case.
What Is the Cost of a Sex Trafficking Defense Lawyer in Glendale?
The cost of a sex trafficking lawyer in Glendale will depend on the attorney’s experience, your unique case, and other factors. The average cost of a criminal defense lawyer in Arizona is $134 an hour, but this rate varies substantially by attorney. Trafficking cases are likely to require more resources and a more robust defense, which can lead to increased costs. If the case goes to trial, it will likely take longer, which can also increase the overall costs.
Contact Grand Canyon Law Group Today
If you have been charged with sex trafficking offenses in Glendale, you need to act quickly. Early legal intervention can make a lot of difference. At Grand Canyon Law Group, we can help you protect your rights. Contact us today to learn more.
Call or text 480-400-5555 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form