Allegations of child abuse in Tucson, Arizona, can lead to intense investigations and deeply emotional reactions from everyone involved. It’s not uncommon for law enforcement or child protection agencies to pursue charges before fully hearing a defendant’s version of events. When the facts get lost, and you’re unable to tell your story, you need legal representation that can protect you and make sure your voice is heard.
Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys can make that happen if you’re dealing with this in Tucson, Arizona. Reach out today to (520) 510-0439 to schedule a free case evaluation with a Tucson child abuse defense attorney.
Why Hire Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys If You’re Arrested for Child Abuse in Tucson, AZ?
Child abuse accusations in Tucson, AZ, turn lives upside down, and navigating these emotional cases requires deep legal knowledge. When reputation, families, and livelihoods are threatened, you want a law firm that takes each case personally. Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys understands the gravity of such charges and is committed to providing a vigorous defense.
Our team offers personalized attention, aiming to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.
Clients choose our Tucson criminal defense attorneys because we offer:
- We provide a collaborative approach to every case, with all four attorneys reviewing the situation.
- We offer direct and personalized communication, giving your side the time and respect it deserves.
- Our firm has a proven history of securing acquittals and achieving dismissals and significant reductions in charges.
No one should risk their entire future by facing down a child abuse charge in Tucson, Arizona, alone or with a firm that isn’t up for the job. Call our team today to schedule a free consultation with a Tucson child abuse defense lawyer.
Overview of Child Abuse in Arizona
Arizona treats child abuse as one of its most serious criminal offenses. Under A.R.S. § 13-3623, child abuse includes any actions (or failures to act) that directly harm a child or place them into harm’s way. The law recognizes that risk or actual harm can sometimes come from withholding necessities or exposing children to chronic risk, not just obvious physical violence.
Child abuse charges may arise from actions such as:
- Physical abuse: Acts like hitting, shaking, striking, or burning a child.
- Emotional abuse: Severe neglect, isolating a child, or forcing them to remain in harmful or degrading environments.
- Sexual abuse: Any form of inappropriate or criminal sexual behavior targeting a child.
- Endangerment: Leaving a child in a situation where there is exposure to criminal activities, drugs, or physical dangers.
In Arizona, anyone who has substantial caretaking responsibility—a parent, family member, step-parent, teacher, or babysitter—can face charges.
What Are the Penalties for Child Abuse in Tucson, Arizona?
Arizona takes child abuse allegations very seriously, and the penalties depend on factors like the child’s age, the type and degree of harm, and how the accused adult behaved.
Class 2 Felony – Child Under 15 at Extreme Risk
This is the most severe charge, reserved for situations where a child under 15 is put at extreme risk of death or severe injury. If convicted, the sentence can be up to 35 years in prison.
Class 3 Felony – Serious Harm and Reckless Conduct
When a caregiver acts recklessly and a child ends up with a serious physical injury, Class 3 felony charges can arise. These cases are punishable by 5 to 15 years in prison.
Class 4 or Class 5 Felony – Non-Serious Injury/Neglect
Not all abuse cases involve catastrophic harm. Less serious injury or neglect may result in Class 4 or 5 felony charges, carrying penalties of up to 3.75 years in prison.
Class 6 Felony or Misdemeanor – Less Serious Offenses
In situations considered less severe, the charges may be reduced to a misdemeanor. Punishment can still include up to 2 years in prison, fines, and probation.
No matter what level of charges you’re facing, a child abuse conviction on your record is serious and can threaten all aspects of your life.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested for Child Abuse in Tucson?
Being accused of child abuse in Arizona does not mean your case is already lost. There are several defenses that your Tucson criminal defense lawyer can explore based on the specific facts surrounding your charges.
Defenses may include:
- Accident: You may be able to show that any injuries sustained by the child were the result of an accident and not intentional or reckless behavior.
- False Allegations: False allegations sometimes arise from misunderstandings, custody disputes, or biased reporting by third parties.
- No Causation: Medical records, witnesses, or experts can challenge the claim that your actions actually caused, or could have caused, harm to the child.
- Violation of Rights: Unlawful search, police error, or violations of your rights may result in crucial evidence against you being suppressed, which means it cannot be used against you in court.
Every situation is different, and mounting a successful defense starts by working with an experienced lawyer.
With the high-stakes outcomes that can occur after a child abuse conviction, choosing the right defense attorney is critical. Our team will do everything possible to help you fight these charges and mitigate the consequences you’re facing.Reach out for experienced legal support and clear direction. Call Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a free consultation with a Tucson child abuse defense attorney.