Being accused of a sex crime can have life-altering consequences, including reputation damage and even jail time in some cases. If you find yourself facing a sex crime charge, it’s important to know the steps to take next to protect yourself legally and personally. In this blog post, we will discuss what you should do after being accused of a sex crime, including sexual assault or improper conduct with a minor in Arizona.
First and foremost, it is crucial not to say anything to the authorities without speaking to an experienced lawyer first. Anything you say to the police, even if it seems harmless at the moment, can be used against you in court. Anything you say to the alleged victim can also be used against you. Therefore, it’s best to remain silent and just contact an attorney. Lee Ciccarelli, an experienced criminal defense attorney in Arizona, emphasizes this as the first step to take to protect yourself legally.
Next, contact and retain a knowledgeable defense lawyer as soon as possible. When faced with being accused of a sex crime, you must have an experienced sex crimes defense attorney in Arizona to help you navigate the justice system. Your lawyer will be able to explain the charges against you, your rights, defenses, and legal options. Lee Ciccarelli who has over 25 years of experience of defending people in Arizona, is a trusted ally to have by your side during this trying time.
Additionally, it’s worthwhile to note that sexual assault in Arizona is a very serious charge that carries significant penalties. Even a first time offender, convicted of sexual assault in Arizona, can face 5-15 years in prison and hefty fines ranging from $1000-$150,000. The minimum penalty for sexual assault in Arizona is 5 years if committed against a child 14 years or younger. Even if you’re just accused of improper conduct with a minor, this can also carry severe consequences for your future, including the limitation of your personal freedom and damage to your reputation among friends, family, and colleagues.
With the guidance of a seasoned attorney, you can begin preparing a strong defense and protecting your rights. An experienced defense attorney like Lee Ciccarelli will work to gather evidence, build a case on your behalf, and ensure that your rights are protected all along the way. With an attorney who knows the ins and outs of sex crimes defense in Arizona, you have the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in your case.
Conclusion:
Sex crime accusations can be emotionally and physically draining to deal with. If you find yourself accused of a sex crime, including sexual assault or improper conduct with a minor in Arizona, you should take action to protect yourself. The first step, as emphasized by criminal defense attorney Lee Ciccarelli, is to remain silent and contact a skilled attorney. With the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer, you can rest assured that your rights are being protected and that you have the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in your case. Lee Ciccarelli is ready to help you defend your freedom, reputation, and future, so don’t hesitate to contact him if you’re facing a sex crime accusation.