Have you been accused of child molestation in Tucson, Arizona? You may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take, especially knowing the serious penalties and lasting impact of these charges. Our attorneys have 45 years of combined experience defending complex criminal cases like yours.
Defendants should reach out for legal assistance and let us help protect their rights in Tucson, Arizona. Call Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys at (520) 510-0439 for a confidential consultation with a Tucson child molestation lawyer.
Why Hire Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys If You’re Arrested For Child Molestation?
If you are facing allegations of child molestation, choosing the right Tucson criminal defense attorney can make a significant difference in how your case unfolds. These charges can affect every part of your life, and handling them on your own is never a good idea.
Here’s what sets our firm apart when handling child molestation cases:
- We have guided thousands of clients through complex criminal charges, including serious sex offense allegations.
- Our attorneys work together on cases, and each brings a unique background to the legal team, allowing for different viewpoints and a more thorough defense strategy.
- Our proven approach has led to acquittals, dismissals, and charge reductions for many clients accused of sex crimes in Tucson.
- Our reputation is built on aggressive courtroom advocacy, negotiation skills, and genuine compassion for those facing difficult times.
We know these accusations are incredibly serious and stressful. If you’re facing charges in Tucson, Arizona, let us help. Contact Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys for a confidential consultation with a Tucson child molestation lawyer.
Overview of Child Molestation in Arizona
Under Arizona law, molestation of a child means intentionally or knowingly touching or causing sexual contact with a person younger than 15 years old. Sexual contact includes any touching, fondling, or handling of the genitals or anus, either over or under clothing, whether it is done directly or with an object. It is important to understand that this charge does not require actual sexual intercourse or penetration.
What Are the Penalties for Child Molestation in Tucson, Arizona?
Child molestation in Tucson is considered a Class 2 felony under Arizona law. If a person is convicted for the first time, the sentence can be up to 24 years in prison. For a second or subsequent conviction, the prison term may increase to as much as 35 years.
Collateral Consequences of Child Molestation Charges
A conviction for child molestation comes with long-term effects that reach far beyond prison time.
Some of the collateral consequences include:
- Lifetime registration as a sex offender
- Restrictions on where you can live or work
- Loss of custody and visitation rights for your own children
- Lasting damage to your reputation and personal relationships
- Difficulty finding employment or housing
- Loss of professional licenses
- Permanent criminal record that cannot be sealed or expunged
These consequences can impact almost every part of your life for years to come, sometimes forever.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Arrested for Child Molestation?
If you are charged with child molestation in Arizona, there are several strong legal defenses that may apply to your case. Some possible defenses include:
- False accusation: The accusation is false or was made up, possibly because of family disputes, custody battles, or other personal reasons. Additionally, sometimes children or caregivers make allegations based on misunderstandings or outside pressure.
- Lack of evidence: There is a lack of physical evidence to support the claim, which makes it difficult for the prosecution to prove what happened beyond a reasonable doubt. This could lead to an acquittal.
- Alibi: The alleged incident did not happen, or you were not present at the time, which can sometimes be shown with evidence like time-stamped receipts, witness statements, or surveillance footage.
- Mistaken identity: The child, or a witness, may have identified the wrong person, either because of mistaken memory or confusing you with someone else.
- Accidental contact: The physical contact was accidental and not intentional or knowing, which matters because Arizona law requires that the accused acted purposely or was aware of what they were doing.
A knowledgeable attorney can help you determine which defenses fit your case and how to present them most effectively in court.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Tucson Child Molestation Lawyer
If you are accused of child molestation in Tucson, you need experienced legal support right away. The stakes are high, and every step you take matters. A conviction can lead to lengthy prison time and a lifetime of restrictions and challenges.
Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys is ready to stand with you and fight for your future. Contact us today to discuss your case with our Tucson child molestation attorney. Your consultation is confidential, and help is just a phone call away.