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FAQ

  • Luring a Minor

    • Can I be convicted if the person I was messaging was not actually a minor?

      Yes. Under ARS 13-3554(B), it is explicitly not a defense that the other person was not actually a minor. If an undercover police officer posed as a 14-year-old and you offered to engage in sexual conduct, you can be charged and convicted even though no actual minor was involved. The focus of the law is on your intent and your belief about the other person's age.

    • What is the difference between luring a minor and sexual conduct with a minor?

      ARS 13-3554 (luring) criminalizes the communication itself — offering or soliciting sexual conduct with a person you believe to be a minor. ARS 13-1405 (sexual conduct with a minor) criminalizes the actual physical sexual act. It is common for defendants to be charged with both statutes simultaneously when both communication and physical contact are alleged.

    • What if I immediately said I was joking or didn't really intend to meet?

      Prosecutors do not generally accept this explanation at face value, and Arizona courts have not recognized a "joking" defense to ARS 13-3554. However, the credibility of the alleged intent and whether a genuine offer or solicitation occurred is a factual question for the jury. Our attorneys evaluate the complete communication record to assess whether this argument has merit in your specific case.

    • How do police identify people in online sting operations?

      Law enforcement typically uses platform-based subpoenas to obtain account registration information and IP address logs, which are then traced to a physical address through internet service provider records. In addition, app-based data recovery, device forensics, and in some cases proactive coordination with platform trust-and-safety teams are used to identify suspects. Our attorneys examine the legal basis for each step of this identification process.

    • Will I go to prison if convicted?

      If the alleged victim is under 15 and the charge is classified as a Dangerous Crime Against Children, probation is not available for most first-time convictions. Mandatory flat-time prison sentences apply. If the alleged victim is 15 or older, probation is theoretically available at the judge's discretion for first-time offenders. The outcome depends heavily on the specific facts, the defendant's history, and the quality of the defense.

    • Is there any way to resolve the case without going to trial?

      Yes. Many ARS 13-3554 cases are resolved through negotiated plea agreements that may reduce the charge, the sentencing exposure, or both. Whether a negotiated resolution is appropriate depends entirely on the evidence in your specific case and what the prosecution is willing to offer. Our attorneys evaluate every option and give you a clear comparison of outcomes at every stage.

  • Statutory Rape

    • Is statutory rape the same as sexual assault?

      No. Statutory rape (ARS 13-1405) does not require proof of force or non-consent — the minor's age alone makes the conduct criminal. Sexual assault (ARS 13-1406) requires proof that the other person did not consent. These are distinct charges with different elements and different defenses.

    • What if I am close in age to the alleged victim?

      Arizona's Romeo and Juliet law may protect you if the alleged victim was 15 to 17, you were 19 or younger (or still in high school), and the age difference was two years or less. Our attorneys evaluate the specific facts of your case at the first consultation to assess whether this protection applies.

    • What happens if the alleged victim was under 15?

      When the alleged victim is under 15, the charge becomes a Dangerous Crime Against Children (DCAC) under ARS 13-705, which imposes mandatory minimum prison sentences starting at 13 flat years for a first offense with a victim aged 12–14. These cases require a fundamentally different defense strategy. See our dedicated ARS 13-1405 page for a full breakdown of DCAC penalties and defenses.

    • Can I avoid sex offender registration?

      All convictions under ARS 13-1405 require lifetime sex offender registration. The primary way to avoid registration is to avoid a conviction entirely — through dismissal, acquittal, or a negotiated resolution to a non-registrable offense. Our attorneys pursue every available avenue to achieve outcomes that do not require registration.

    • How long will my case take?

      The timeline varies significantly depending on the complexity of the case, the amount of evidence to review, and the Maricopa County Superior Court's schedule. Many cases resolve before trial through motion practice or negotiation. Cases that proceed to trial typically take 6 to 18 months from charging to verdict. Our attorneys keep you informed at every stage.

  • Sexual Conduct with a Minor

    • Can I be charged if the minor consented?

      Yes. Under Arizona law, a person under the age of 18 cannot legally consent to sexual activity with an adult. The State does not need to prove force or objection. The minor's age alone is the determining factor.

    • Is this the same as statutory rape?

      Yes. Arizona does not use the term "statutory rape" in its statutes, but ARS 13-1405 is the functional equivalent. If you have been charged under the colloquial "statutory rape" label, the actual charge is ARS 13-1405. See our related Statutory Rape page for information on the Romeo and Juliet law and age of consent in Arizona.

    • What if the minor lied about their age?

      Arizona courts have generally held that a good-faith belief about the minor's age is not a complete defense to ARS 13-1405 charges. However, the circumstances under which the defendant came to believe the other person was an adult can be relevant to both defenses and sentencing. This is a fact-specific analysis our attorneys conduct case by case.

    • Will I have to register as a sex offender for life?

      In most cases involving a conviction under ARS 13-1405, lifetime sex offender registration is required. The specific tier and associated restrictions depend on the offense and risk assessment process. Our attorneys challenge registration determinations where legally available and pursue every post-conviction avenue to minimize long-term consequences.

    • Can the charges be dropped before trial?

      Yes. Through pre-trial motions — including motions to suppress evidence, motions to dismiss, and challenges to the State's probable cause — our attorneys have achieved complete case dismissals for clients facing multiple DCAC-level sex offense charges. The viability of pre-trial resolution depends entirely on the specific facts of your case.

    • What is the difference between ARS 13-1405 and ARS 13-1406?

      ARS 13-1406 is Arizona's sexual assault statute and requires proof of non-consent. ARS 13-1405 does not require proof of non-consent — the minor's age alone establishes the criminal nature of the conduct. This is an important distinction because ARS 13-1405 charges can arise even from relationships that appeared consensual to both parties.

  • Careers

    • Criminal Investigations Attorney – Non-Litigation Role

      Are you an experienced criminal defense attorney who thrives on strategy, analysis, and investigation—but would prefer a role that doesn’t require trying cases in court? We’re looking for a sharp legal mind to join our team in a behind-the-scenes capacity, focusing on case preparation, investigative review, and defense strategy development.

      What You’ll Do:

      • Analyze criminal investigations and evidence with a critical eye
      • Research statutes, case law, and procedural issues to strengthen defenses
      • Collaborate with trial attorneys to build case strategy
      • Draft motions, briefs, and internal case assessments
      • Serve as a resource for investigative insight without handling courtroom litigation

      What We’re Looking For:

      • J.D. and active law license in good standing
      • Strong background in criminal law and investigations
      • Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills
      • Detail-oriented, strategic thinker who enjoys problem-solving
      • Desire to work in a non-litigation role, supporting attorneys and clients

      Why Join Us:

      • Meaningful, challenging work without the courtroom stress
      • Opportunity to leverage your investigative expertise in a supportive environment
      • Collaborative team culture focused on excellence and client advocacy

      If you’re ready to apply your criminal law and investigative experience in a role where your skills shine—without stepping into the courtroom—we’d love to hear from you.

    • Criminal Defense Attorney

      We’re seeking a seasoned attorney to join our growing criminal defense team. If you thrive in the courtroom, have a passion for protecting constitutional rights, and want to make a real impact in the lives of Arizonans, this is your chance.

      What You’ll Do

      • Represent clients charged with felony and misdemeanor offenses, including violent crimes, drug trafficking, and white-collar crimes
      • Develop and execute strategic defense plans from arraignment through trial
      • Conduct legal research and analysis
      • Draft legal documents, including pleadings, motions, and contracts
      • Represent clients in negotiations and court proceedings
      • Provide legal advice and guidance to clients
      • Prepare and present cases in court
      • Collaborate with colleagues on complex legal matters
      • Maintain accurate and detailed case files

      Requirements:

      • Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school
      • Licensed and in good standing with the Arizona State Bar
      • Minimum 3 years of criminal defense experience
      • Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred
      • Prosecution experience preferred
      • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
      • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
      • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
      • Attention to detail and strong organizational skills

      Why You’ll Love Working Here:

      • Competitive salary (DOE) with performance-based bonuses
      • Firm-paid medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
      • 401(k) with up to 4% employer match
      • Paid state and federal holidays
      • All-inclusive, family-style work environment
      • A chance to make a real difference in the lives of Arizonans

      Our Commitment to Diversity

      MayesTelles PLLC is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of race, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, or any other protected status.

      Ready to Defend What Matters Most?

      If you're a felony attorney ready to fight for justice and make a lasting impact, we want to hear from you. Apply today and join a team that values excellence, integrity, and heart.

      Job Type: Full-time

      Benefits:

      • 401(k)
      • 401(k) matching
      • Dental insurance
      • Health insurance
      • Life insurance
      • Paid time off
      • Referral program
      • Vision insurance
    • Associate Attorney – Personal Injury

      Join Our Growing Personal Injury Team – Associate Attorney Wanted

      About MayesTelles PLLC

      At MayesTelles PLLC, we’re more than just a law firm—we’re a team of passionate advocates committed to justice and client care. Based in Phoenix, Arizona, we are a locally owned firm known for our excellence in Personal Injury, Criminal Defense, and Immigration law. Our attorneys are recognized for their dedication, results, and unwavering support for our clients.

      Learn more about us at www.mayestelles.com.

      The Opportunity: Associate Attorney – Personal Injury

      We’re looking for a seasoned Pre-Litigation Attorney to join our growing Personal Injury team. This is a unique opportunity to work alongside a dynamic group of professionals and help shape the future of an already thriving but growing injury practice.

      What You’ll Bring:

      - 5+ years of experience in personal injury pre-litigation (litigation experience is a plus)

      - Strong legal writing and communication skills

      - A compassionate, client-first mindset with a drive for results

      - Ability to work independently and efficiently

      - Spanish language skills (preferred)

      - A collaborative spirit and appreciation for a supportive team environment

      Why You’ll Love Working Here:

      - Competitive salary (DOE) with performance-based bonuses

      - Firm-paid medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

      - 401(k) with up to 4% employer match

      - Paid state and federal holidays

      - All-inclusive, family-style work environment

      - A chance to make a real difference in the lives of injured Arizonans

      Our Commitment to Diversity

      MayesTelles PLLC is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of race, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, or any other protected status.

      Job Type: Full-time

      Benefits:

      401(k)

      Dental insurance

      Flexible schedule

      Health insurance

      Paid time off

      Vision insurance

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