Were you arrested for rape or sexual assault in Tucson, Arizona? The stakes could not be higher. Call Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys today at (520) 510-0439 to set up a free consultation with our Tucson sex crimes attorneys.
A conviction can lead to years in prison, mandatory sex offender registration, and lifelong damage to your reputation. However, it’s critical to remember that you still have the right to fight back with help from our attorneys.
We bring over 45 years of combined experience and a longstanding track record of successful outcomes to every case we take on. Our Tucson rape defense lawyers know how to respond to these charges effectively and will make your case our priority from the start.
How Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help if You’re Facing Rape Charges in Tucson, Arizona
When prosecutors file rape or sexual assault charges, they often believe they already have a case worth pursuing. However, the law requires them to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, which is a high burden. That gives your Tucson criminal defense lawyer many opportunities to challenge the evidence against you and work to have your charges dismissed or reduced.
Our Tucson sex crimes lawyers understand how local courts operate and how prosecutors handle these cases. We will use our resources and experience to protect your rights throughout the entire criminal process.
When you hire Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys in Tucson, AZ, we can:
- Investigate the allegations and scrutinize the evidence against you
- Interview witnesses and gather exculpatory evidence in your favor
- File pretrial motions to exclude unlawfully obtained evidence
- Challenge the credibility of the accuser and the prosecution’s witnesses
- Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges where possible
- Defend you at trial if that is in your best interest
We know your future is on the line, and we will do everything in our power to secure the best possible outcome for you. Contact our Tucson rape defense attorneys today for a free case review.
Rape and Sexual Assault Laws in Arizona
Arizona law does not use the term “rape” as commonly understood. Instead, the crime is generally prosecuted under sexual assault statutes.
Sexual Assault
You may be charged with sexual assault under ARS § 13-1406 if you intentionally engage in sexual intercourse or oral sexual contact without the other person’s consent. This is generally a Class 2 felony in Arizona and carries extremely harsh penalties.
Aggravated Sexual Assault
Charges can become even more serious if aggravating circumstances are present, such as:
- Using a weapon during the assault
- Causing serious physical injury
- Committing the offense against a minor
- Acting with multiple perpetrators
These factors can result in even longer prison sentences and mandatory registration as a sex offender.
What Are the Penalties for a Rape Conviction in Tucson?
Arizona imposes some of the toughest sentences for sexual assault in the country.
If convicted, you may face:
- A minimum of 5.25 years in prison for a first-time Class 2 felony conviction
- Up to 14 years in prison for aggravated sexual assault
- Up to $150,000 in fines and additional fees
- Mandatory sex offender registration, often for life
Repeat offenders or cases involving minors carry mandatory minimum sentences of decades in prison. On top of this, collateral consequences can affect every part of your life, including your ability to work or find housing.
What Defenses Can I Raise in Response to Rape Charges in Arizona?
Since the burden of proof in criminal cases is so high, many legal defenses may be available in rape or sexual assault cases.
The right defense will depend on the facts of your case, but common strategies include:
- Consent: Arguing that the alleged victim willingly consented to the sexual activity
- False accusations: Showing that the charges were fabricated due to anger, jealousy, revenge, or custody disputes
- Mistaken identity: Challenging eyewitness accounts or unreliable identification
- Lack of evidence: Pointing out weaknesses or gaps in the prosecution’s case
- Violation of rights: Suppressing evidence obtained through illegal searches or seizures, in addition to other possible violations
Our defense lawyers will carefully review the facts of your case and determine which defenses can be raised effectively on your behalf.
Contact Our Tucson Rape Defense Attorneys for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been accused of rape or sexual assault in Tucson, Arizona, you cannot afford to wait to get legal help. Every step you take from here matters a great deal, and it is important to ensure that every step of the process goes as smoothly and favorably as it can.
With 45 years of combined experience, Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys knows how to fight back against these charges. We will stand by you at every stage of the process, whether that means negotiating with prosecutors or defending you at trial.
Call today to schedule your free case evaluation with a Tucson rape defense lawyer. Your future and freedom deserve nothing less.