Learn More About Rape and Statutory Rape Charges

Sexual assault is the legal term for rape in Arizona. It includes sexual intercourse or oral sexual contact without a person’s consent. Charges begin at a class 2 felony with a minimum sentence of 5.25 years. However, the sentence will be enhanced if the offender has a history of felony convictions, causes physical injury to the victim, or uses drugs to subdue the victim.

While there is no charge called “statutory rape” in Arizona, statutory rape can be said to occur between an adult and a minor (under 18 years of age). In Arizona, children under the age of 15 cannot legally consent to any sexual activity so the penalties for sexual conduct with a minor increase when a child under 15 is involved:

• Sexual conduct with a minor who is at least 15 years of age is a class 6 felony.
• Sexual conduct with a minor who is under 15 years of age is a class 2 felony.
• If the offender is the minor’s parent, stepparent, adoptive parent, legal guardian, or foster parent, it is a class 2 felony.

These are extremely serious charges. Those involving a child under 15 can be punishable under the dangerous crimes against children sentencing guidelines, which add years to a prison sentence.

Experienced Lawyers

If you have been accused of or charged with rape, you need to speak with experienced lawyers as soon as possible. Sexual assault crimes can send you to prison if you are convicted. They will also require you to register as a sex offender and participate in sex offense lifetime probation if you’re lucky enough to receive probation.

We provide representation to individuals charged with all types of criminal sexual conduct, including rape, statutory rape, and date rape. Because sex crime cases may go to trial, you need an experienced trial attorney who is not afraid to stand up for you in court. I have tried more than 200 cases before a jury since 1987. I will prepare for trial and build the strongest defense possible.