25 Nov Statutory Rape in Arizona
In Arizona, any sexual contact with a minor by someone over the age of 18 is considered statutory rape. Minors are not legally allowed to give consent. Which means sexual contact could mean serving time in federal prison and having to pay steep fines, fees, and restitution. Not only is statutory rape a felony, a conviction also means registering as a sexual offender.
Definition of Statutory Rape in Arizona
Arizona’s age of consent is 18 years old. This means that sexual contact between someone under the age of 18 and someone over the age of 18 is statutory rape. The only exception to this law is for those who are within two years of age—for example, an 18-year-old and their 16-year-old partner.
There are several ways that statutory rape can be charged, but it is always a felony. The class of felony will depend on the minor’s age as well as other factors.
- If the minor is under the age of 12 and suffers a serious physical injury, statutory rape is a class 1 felony.
- If the minor is under 15 or the adult was in a position of power over the minor (such as a teacher or employer) it is a class 2 felony.
- If the minor is between 15 and 18, it is a class 6 felony.
How Arizona Punishes Statutory Rape
The punishments for statutory rape depend on the class of felony. Prison terms can range from six months to life. It depends on the case and the number of prior felony convictions.
- Class 1 felony: Imprisonment for natural life. In this situation, there is no eligibility for parole or work furlough. Fines, fees, and restitution are also typically assigned in these cases.
- Class 2 felony: Depending on the number of previous felony convictions, sentences can range from 3 years to 35 years in prison. There is no eligibility for a suspension of sentence, probation, or parole. Arizona may also add fines, fees, and restitution.
- Class 6 felony: Depending on the number of prior felony convictions, sentencing can result in prison terms of 6 months to over 5 years.
What Does “Inappropriate Conduct with a Minor” Mean?
This phrase is typically used in the media in a case where a verdict has not yet been passed. Other states may have specific laws with this phrasing, but in Arizona there are no laws specifically regarding inappropriate conduct with a minor. However, this type of behavior can have criminal charges, such as indecent exposure or exploitation.
If You Have Been Charged with Statutory Rape, You Need a Lawyer
Don’t let a felony conviction ruin your life! Being charged with a felony in Arizona is a serious matter. With a felony conviction, you lose access to civil rights like voting, possessing a firearm, obtaining several professional licenses, and eligibility for certain social services.
Coolidge Law Firm offers decades of experience in criminal defense. Hiring the right lawyer could be the difference between walking free or spending years in prison. If you are facing criminal charges, contact us today for consultation on your case.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (11/24/24).Photo by Vladimir Kudinov on Unsplash.