This is the fourth post in my series on the handling of sex offense charges in Phoenix, Arizona. My last post discussed defending against child pornography charges. It is important to understand that the police must respect your privacy rights and not seize items from your computer without a warrant. In this post I will discuss another important topic – serving probation after having been convicted. It is important to know what to expect from probation. If you have questions about whether or not you should plead guilty, and accept probation, then contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.
Arizona sex offenders will have several requirements placed upon them during probation
Arizona residents convicted of a sex offense will face stricter requirements on probation than those convicted of another charge. In addition to having to stay out of trouble, pay fees, and having to report to an officer, one convicted of a sexual related crime will typically:
- Be prohibited from initiating contact with anyone under the age of 18 unless they receive prior permission to do so from their probation officer
- Be prohibited from living with a child under the age of 18 without approval from the Court or a probation officer
- Be prohibited from going near places such as schools, daycares, playgrounds, etc.
- Be prohibited from possessing, or attempting to obtain, any pornographic material
- Be required to attend a sex offender treatment program
- Be required to submit to DNA testing
- Be required to register as a sex offender
Violation of any of these requirements may result in the defendant having their probation revoked and their having to serve a prison sentence. Upon release from prison they will still be subject to “lifetime supervision” under Arizona law.
It is important to understand that many of the above requirements will be imposed upon any sex offender who accepts a plea agreement in Arizona. In such cases there are state and local rules which a Judge must abide by and the requirements placed upon a sex offender stem from such rules. This means that the Judge will not have the discretion to relax many of these requirements.
It is important for Phoenix residents to consult with an attorney before pleading guilty to a sex offense
Again, many of the above-discussed requirements will be mandatory if a Phoenix resident is convicted of a sex offense. It is crucial that you speak with an attorney prior to accepting a plea agreement. You may have a defensible case due to constitutional violations by law enforcement, actual innocence, or on other grounds. Accepting a plea deal, when you have defenses available, can be devastating to your future. Contact my office today to speak with a lawyer. I also service other Maricopa County cities such as Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Gilbert as well as assisting Pima County residents in Tucson.
