Arizona has some of the harshest mandatory penalties for sex offenses in the United States.  If you are charged with a sex offense, or think you’re about to be, you need to retain aggressive, competent counsel right away.  We handle all types of sex offense cases, including sexual conduct with a minor, child molestation, sexual assault, date rape and possession of child pornography.  We handle all such cases aggressively, but with finesse.  We always recommend a forensic psychologist to conduct a psychosexual examination.  We use these reports in plea negotiations and sentencing.  Most sex cases end with a negotiated settlement, and the settlement does not always have to be the State’s first plea prison-only offer.  It’s important to hire counsel who speaks tactfully, negotiates firmly but isn’t afraid to go to trial.  If the police ask you questions, or you get a phone call from someone claiming to be a past victim, say nothing. Ask for a lawyer, and contact Helms & Denea for a free consultation.

In 2004, our 18 year-old client met a young girl at a skate park; he believed her to be of legal age, but she was only 14.  After being confronted by her father, the girl reluctantly told police she had a sexual relationship with our client, and sexual misconduct charges carrying mandatory prison time were filed against him.    We immediately retained a mental health expert and obtained a complete evaluation.   Using this, we were able to persuade the prosecutor that our client wasn’t a pedophile, and that the incident was an honest mistake.  After a year of negotiations, the state dismissed the charges against our client.