Tolleson Sexual Assault Attorney
Not only is sexual assault categorized as a serious felony offense under Arizona state law, it also has a uniquely harsh sentencing structure which allows courts to impose more severe penalties on people compared to other offenses categorized as the same class of felony. Put simply, an allegation like this is an extremely serious matter, and one which results in criminal charges can change your life in an instant.
Under circumstances like this, you should think twice before leaving your case in the hands of anyone but a qualified sex crimes attorney with a track record of achieving favorable results from previous cases. With a Tolleson sexual assault lawyer on your side, you will stand a far better chance of resolving your case as positively as possible than you would have on your own or with an overworked public defender.
For a free legal consultation with a sexual assault lawyer serving Tolleson, call 480-400-5555
WHAT CONSTITUTES “SEXUAL ASSAULT” IN TOLLESON?
Unlike some other states, Arizona distinguishes non-consensual sexual intercourse from non-consensual sexual contact and statutory rape. Non-consensual intercourse means penetration of the anus or female genitals with any part of the body or any object, oral sexual contact with the genitals or anus, or “masturbatory contact” with the male or female genitals. “Sexual assault” as defined by Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-1406 specifically covers non-consensual sexual intercourse with a person over the age of 18 and is treated as a Class 2 felony, with unique sentencing guidelines as discussed in more detail below.
If someone over 18 engages in sexual intercourse or oral sexual contact with someone under 18, they would likely instead be prosecuted for “sexual conduct with a minor” under A.R.S. § 13-1405. If the minor was at least 15 years old and the defendant was not in a “position of trust” over them, this offense is a Class 6 felony. Otherwise, as a Tolleson sexual assault attorney could further explain, it is a Class 2 felony subject to the unique sentencing ranges established under A.R.S. § 13-705 for “dangerous crimes against children.”
Tolleson Sexual Assault Lawyer Near Me 480-400-5555
UNIQUE SENTENCING RANGES FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT CONVICTIONS
A first-time offender convicted of sexual assault as defined by A.R.S. § 13-1406 may be sentenced to anywhere from 5.25 to 14 years of imprisonment, with a presumptive sentence of seven years. The sentencing range for someone with one prior felony conviction of any kind is seven to 21 years, with a presumptive sentence of 10.5 years, and the range for someone with two or more prior felony convictions is 14 to 28 years with a presumptive sentence of 15.75 years.
Additionally, anyone who commits sexual assault by administering Rohypnol, GHB, ketamine, or any equivalent substance will have their minimum, maximum, and presumptive sentences increased by three years. Furthermore, sexual assault, which involves the intentional infliction of a serious physical injury, is punishable by life imprisonment. A minimum of 25 years must be served before the convicted person becomes eligible to apply for probation, pardon, or early release through any other means.
A sexual assault lawyer in Tolleson can go into further detail about these and other aggravating conditions during a private initial meeting.
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TALK TO A TOLLESON SEXUAL ASSAULT ATTORNEY ABOUT LEGAL OPTIONS
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to contesting sexual assault accusations, nor is it ever wise to try handling one by yourself. Instead, you should make it your top priority to contact a criminal defense lawyer and enlist their help in enforcing your rights and protecting your best interests in the long term.
You have a right to defend yourself against any and all criminal allegations, and a Tolleson sexual assault lawyer from Grand Canyon Law Group can be the ally you need. Call today to schedule a free and confidential consultation.
Call or text 480-400-5555 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form