Phoenix Child Molestation Defense Lawyer
Accused of child molestation in Phoenix? A conviction under A.R.S. 13-1410 can mean years in prison and sex-offender registration. Our team defends the full range of sex-crime cases across Phoenix and Maricopa County. Do not speak with a detective before you call us.
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Is Child Molestation a Felony in Phoenix?
Quick answer: Yes. Child Molestation under A.R.S. 13-1410 is a serious felony, and a Phoenix conviction can carry prison and sex-offender registration. But an accusation is not proof. A Phoenix child molestation defense lawyer protects your rights from the first contact with police, challenges the evidence and the State’s theory of intent, and fights for a dismissal or reduction. Call 623-321-4699, 24/7.
What Is Child Molestation in Arizona?
Child molestation under A.R.S. 13-1410 is intentionally or knowingly engaging in or causing sexual contact, except sexual contact with the female breast, with a child under fifteen. The State must prove the contact was motivated by a sexual interest, an intent element that is frequently the weakest part of its case.
Child Molestation Penalties & Registration
Child molestation is a Class 2 felony and a dangerous crime against children under A.R.S. 13-705. A conviction involving a child under twelve can carry a prison term of 10 to 24 years (presumptive 17) per count, served as flat time with no early release, and multiple counts can run consecutively. It also requires lifetime sex-offender registration.
Because the stakes are this high, every element, especially intent and the search or interview that produced the evidence, is a place to fight. Charges in Phoenix are heard in the Maricopa County Superior Court; see our Phoenix court guide.
How We Defend Child Molestation Cases in Phoenix
When you call Tamou Law Group, you reach a firm with serious experience defending sex-crime allegations throughout Phoenix and Maricopa County. Our team includes former prosecutors and law enforcement officers, so we know exactly how the State builds these cases, and where the interview, the forensics, and the intent element fall apart.
At many firms the name on the door is a figurehead and your case goes to a junior associate. When you hire Tamou Law Group, your case is handled by a full team of attorneys, not associates, including Michael Tamou. We are available 24/7 and serve Phoenix from our Phoenix and Scottsdale offices. Call 623-321-4699.
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Phoenix Child Molestation FAQs
Answers to common questions about child molestation charges in Phoenix.
What is the sentence for child molestation in Arizona?
For a child under twelve it is a Class 2 dangerous crime against children carrying 10 to 24 years of flat-time prison per count, with a presumptive term of 17 years. Counts can be stacked, which is why fighting each count matters.
Is there a statute of limitations on child molestation in Arizona?
No. Arizona has no statute of limitations for sexual offenses against minors, so charges can be filed many years after the alleged conduct. An old allegation is still very much defensible.
Do I have to register as a sex offender for child molestation in Phoenix?
A conviction requires lifetime sex-offender registration. Avoiding that result is often the central goal of the defense, which is why early, aggressive work is critical. Call 623-321-4699.
What should I do if I am falsely accused of molesting a child?
Do not contact the accuser or the family, do not talk to police or a detective without a lawyer, and preserve texts, emails, and any evidence of motive to fabricate. Call us before you say anything.
Can I be charged with molestation with no physical evidence in Phoenix?
Yes. Many cases are built solely on a child’s statement. That makes how the interview was conducted, and whether it was leading or coached, the heart of the defense.
What is the difference between child molestation and sexual abuse in Arizona?
Molestation (13-1410) is sexual contact with a child under fifteen motivated by sexual interest; sexual abuse (13-1404) covers contact with the female breast of a child under fifteen or non-consensual contact. The class and penalties differ significantly.
Will a child molestation charge show up on a background check?
A conviction appears on background checks and the public sex-offender registry for life, affecting housing, work, and custody. A pending charge can also surface, which is why resolving it favorably is so important.
Can a molestation case be defended if the child recants in Phoenix?
A recantation can be powerful, but prosecutors often proceed anyway, arguing pressure. We use the recantation, the interview record, and the surrounding facts to fight the charge.
Key Takeaways
- Child Molestation under A.R.S. 13-1410 is a serious felony, a Phoenix conviction can mean prison and registration.
- An accusation is not proof, the State must prove every element, including sexual intent.
- Cases are heard in the Maricopa County Superior Court; early defense protects your rights and your record.
- Our team includes former prosecutors and law enforcement, we know how these cases are built.
- Your case is handled by a full team of attorneys, not associates, including Michael Tamou, 24/7 at 623-321-4699.
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Two Arizona Offices, One Team
We serve all of Maricopa County and the surrounding area, with free, confidential consultations 24/7 by phone and in-person meetings at either office by appointment.
Case Results Disclaimer: The results described on this page are based on specific facts and circumstances and do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome in any future case. Every case is different. Past results do not guarantee future results. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this page or submitting a contact form until a written fee agreement has been signed. Tamou Law Group, PLLC is licensed to practice law in the State of Arizona. This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.