Mesa Sex Crime Lawyer

Mesa Sex Crime Attorney

If you are ever charged with a sex crime of any kind, it is crucial that you contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Sex crime charges can completely shatter your life and land you in prison, effectively ruining your employment status, your social standing, and your personal relationships. Accusations can sometimes be enough to cause irreparable harm to your reputation, even if your charges are not proven. A Mesa sex crime lawyer can help you fight these charges and protect your future.

The team at Hallam Law Group includes a trusted Mesa criminal defense lawyer who can help protect your rights and guide you through every step of the legal process.

What Is a Sex Crime?

In the state of Arizona, a sex crime can include many different crimes that are sexual in nature, such as:

• Indecent exposure
• Sexual abuse
• Sexual conduct with a minor
• Child molestation
• Sexual assault
• Other sexually motivated crimes

Law enforcement in Arizona takes sex crimes very seriously, and if you are charged with one, you may have a difficult time defending yourself without the help of a lawyer.

When you are arrested for a sex crime, you need to remember that you are considered innocent until proven guilty, and the police cannot make you say anything, thanks to your constitutional rights. You have the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel. It is very important that you exercise both of these rights in order to protect yourself.

Possible Defenses Against a Sex Crime Charge

When you are arrested for a sex crime, you may already feel defeated. Once the handcuffs are on your wrists, you may feel like you are already doomed, regardless of what you say. That may not be the case. An experienced sex crime lawyer can provide you with options for a strong defense strategy, which may save you from a harsh or disproportionate sentence. Here are some potential defenses you may be able to claim:

• Consent: Depending on the sex crime that you are being charged with, you may be able to argue that while sexual activity did occur, it was all consensual. This is the most basic sex crime defense that you can claim, but it can also be effective. If the prosecution lacks any physical evidence that sexual assault took place, proving that the sex wasn’t consensual can be very difficult to achieve. It often comes down to the victim’s word against the defendant’s — especially in cases involving minors, where Arizona law enforces stricter rules and heightened penalties.
• False Allegations: Not every accusation of a sex crime is genuine. Many people, especially vengeful ex-partners, may seek to discredit their former spouse or partner by making a false claim of a sex crime. Sometimes, the accusation can be enough to cause permanent damage to somebody’s life, but if that accusation turns into charges, things can get so much worse. False allegations are often motivated by vengeance, pain, and spite.
• Factual Innocence: This may be the strongest defense, especially if the evidence is firmly on your side. Factual innocence proves your version of events through forensic evidence. You may prove that DNA evidence found at the scene does not match yours. If police did not find your DNA at the scene, there may be very little basis to prove you were ever there and that you committed the crime.
• Mistaken Identity: This can be one of the most frustrating situations to be in. You may be charged with a crime based solely on eyewitness testimony that mixed you up with somebody else. You may bear a resemblance to the actual perpetrator. Generally, providing a strong alibi can be enough to disprove your involvement and get the charges against you dropped, if this testimony is all the prosecution can provide.

FAQs About Mesa, AZ Sex Crime Law

What Is Considered a Sex Crime in Arizona?

Many different illegal and immoral activities are considered sex crimes in Arizona. If you are accused of or charged with any of them, it is vital that you contact an experienced defense lawyer as soon as possible. Any crime involving sexually motivated threats or harm can be considered a sex crime, including sexual assault, child molestation, indecent exposure, kidnapping, and sex trafficking of a minor.

What Are the Rules for Sex Offenders in Arizona?

Sex offenders in Arizona are required to follow a number of rules, both for their own protection and for the protection of those around them. First and foremost, sex offenders are required to register with the local county sheriff within 10 days of their conviction. They must update this information annually. They are not allowed to live near schools, parks, or any area frequented by children. They also need to get a special driver’s license.

Can You Get Off the Sex Offender List in Arizona?

It is highly unlikely that you can ever get your name off the sex offender list in Arizona once you are on it. It may be possible to achieve this through a petition for the judge to remove your name, but that is a complex process with no guarantees of success. After a certain amount of time has passed, you may be eligible for removal, depending on the nature of your offense.

How Can I Fight a Sex Crime Charge?

There are many different ways you can try and fight a sex crime charge. Lawyers are extremely beneficial to protecting yourself. Most people are poorly equipped to face sex crime charges on their own. Remain silent in front of police or the press until you have first discussed it with your lawyer. Your lawyer can help you devise a solid defense strategy based on your case details. Factual evidence is the most effective way to fight these charges.

Reach Out to a Sex Crime Lawyer Today

Facing sex crime charges can be humiliating, terrifying, and overwhelming. Consult with seasoned legal counsel who can help you handle this situation. Our experience and familiarity with complicated legal terminology make us a vital asset to your success.

The legal team at Hallam Law Group can assist you in many different ways. We can help you develop your case, gather evidence, and devise a solid defense strategy. Contact us to speak with a team member about a consultation.