Cyber Crime Defense

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Phoenix Internet Crimes Attorney

Experienced Cyber Crime Defense Lawyer in Phoenix, Arizona

Computer crimes are increasingly prevalent in today’s digital society, with things like identity theft, cyberstalking, and online scams becoming more and more common. If charged and convicted for these types of offenses, you may be up against some pretty stiff penalties. That’s why, if you are facing computer or internet crime charges in Central Arizona, you need the skill of an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to defend your rights and freedoms. Fortunately, Phoenix internet crimes attorney Belén Olmedo Guerra at the Belén Law Firm is dedicated to providing strong defense strategies tailored to your internet or computer crime.

Belén and her legal team have aggressively defended many individuals accused of various internet-related crimes, providing skilled legal representation both statewide and federally. With a deep understanding of cyber laws as well as the Arizona and federal court system, our experienced criminal attorneys have what it takes to put up a strong defense and achieve the best possible outcome. Call (602) 715-0908 or reach out online for a free consultation and take the first step towards securing your defense today.

What is Considered a Cyber Crime?

A cyber crime refers to any illegal activity that involves the use of computers or the internet. These crimes can range from hacking into systems without authorization, identity theft involving the misuse of personal information, and cyberstalking, which uses online platforms to harass or intimidate another person.

Other common cyber crimes involve the distribution of malware, executing online scams, and engaging in phishing attacks to steal sensitive data. These internet and computer crimes are considered serious offenses and can result in harsh penalties for those convicted.

Arizona Laws Regarding Computer Crimes

In Arizona, there are three key statutes that offer legal protections against cyber crimes: Arizona Revised Statutes §§ 13-2316, 13-2316.01, and 13-2316.02. These laws are intended to deter and penalize internet and computer crimes.

A.R.S. §13-2316 defines computer tampering as unauthorized access, alteration, damage, or destruction of any computer, system, or network, including actions like introducing a virus or using the network to commit fraud.
A.R.S. §13-2316.01 makes it illegal to possess software designed for computer tampering if intended for unauthorized access or activities. The intent to use the software unlawfully differentiates this crime from legitimate use by security professionals.
A.R.S. §13-2316.02 addresses the unauthorized release of proprietary or confidential computer security information. Its goal is to prevent the dissemination of sensitive details that could enable others to bypass security measures, targeting those who distribute such information without permission.

If you’ve been charged with an internet or computer crime in Arizona, working with an experienced Phoenix criminal lawyer is crucial. At the Belén Law Firm, our Phoenix criminal defense attorneys have the skill, resources, and legal maneuver to provide the strong defense you need. Take the first step towards protecting your rights and future by scheduling a free consultation today.

Common Types of Computer Crime Charges in Arizona

In Arizona, individuals may face various computer crime charges, reflecting the broad spectrum of illegal activities facilitated by digital technology. Common charges include child pornography, computer fraud, identity theft, and cyberstalking.

Below is a more comprehensive overview of the common types of internet crimes we handle at our firm:

Computer Fraud: Using a computer to deceive or defraud individuals or entities, often to access funds, assets, or sensitive information. This includes deploying malware or manipulating systems to falsify records.
Identity Theft: Unlawfully obtaining and using another person’s personal information, like Social Security numbers or banking details, to commit fraud or theft. This includes opening credit accounts, making unauthorized purchases, or committing crimes under the victim’s name.
Cyber Stalking: Using the internet, email, or other electronic communications to repeatedly harass, intimidate, or frighten someone. This includes sending threatening messages, spreading false information, or monitoring someone’s online activity without consent.
Child Pornography: Involvement in creating, distributing, or accessing images or videos that sexually exploit children. The sentence for child porn in Arizona is severe, including lengthy prison sentences and sex offender registration.
Luring a Minor for Sexual Exploitation: Using the internet to communicate with a minor with the intent to commit a sexual offense (also known as online solicitation of a minor in Arizona). This often includes persuading, inducing, or enticing a minor to meet, leading to further criminal charges if a meeting occurs.
Hacking and Phishing: Hacking involves unauthorized intrusion into a computer system or network, while phishing refers to sending fraudulent emails or creating fake websites to deceive victims into revealing personal, financial, or login information.
Cyberbullying: Using digital technologies to harass, threaten, or embarrass someone, potentially leading to severe psychological effects like anxiety, depression, and even suicide.
Online Scams: Fraudulent or deceptive acts performed online to cheat someone out of money, assets, or personal information. Common scams include advance-fee fraud, romance scams, and investment fraud.
Illegal Downloading/Piracy: Unauthorized downloading, copying, or distribution of copyrighted material without permission from the copyright holder, including software, movies, music, and books.

If you or someone you know is facing charges related to an internet or computer crime in Arizona, it’s crucial to seek a strong legal defense immediately. At the Belén Law Firm, an experienced criminal defense lawyer will defend your rights and ensure the best possible outcome for your computer or internet-related crime. Contact our law firm to schedule a free initial consultation with Phoenix criminal defense attorney Belén Olmedo Guerra today.

What are the Penalties for Arizona Internet Crimes?

In Arizona, penalties for computer and internet crimes vary by severity. Under A.R.S. §13-2316, computer tampering is typically a Class 3 felony or Class 4 felony, with prison terms of two and a half to three and a half years for a conviction. However, if infrastructure is affected, this criminal offense can be escalated to a Class 2 felony, potentially resulting in a five-year prison sentence.

The penalties for the unlawful possession of access devices, according to A.R.S. §13-2316.01, range from a Class 4 to Class 6 felony with a possible prison sentence lasting between one to two and a half years. It’s important to note that these criminal charges can change depending on how many devices are in the individual’s possession.

Those convicted of a computer or internet crime that falls under A.R.S. §13-2316.02 are usually charged with a Class 6 felony, which can result in up to one year in prison. However, if an infrastructure system was impacted, the charges could be upgraded to a Class 4 felony.

Other computer-related crimes, such as identity theft and child pornography, have their own specified penalties based on the type of offense and the facts of their case. Regardless of where the computer or internet crime falls under Arizona’s felony classification system, securing an experienced criminal defense attorney can mean the difference between a prison sentence or having your criminal charges reduced, dropped, or dismissed.

Do I Need a Lawyer for Internet Crimes?

While hiring a criminal defense attorney for a web crime is not required, it is strongly recommended. The laws surrounding these crimes are complex and constantly evolving, requiring the help of an experienced Phoenix criminal lawyer.

A criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the criminal charges made against you, develop a strong legal defense, and represent you aggressively in court. Additionally, a Phoenix internet crimes attorney can assist in negotiating plea deals, potentially reducing your criminal charges or penalties.

Given the severe consequences associated with computer and internet crimes in Arizona, having an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial in protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

Potential Internet Crime Defenses

Defending against internet crime charges often involves a range of strategies tailored to the specifics of the case. Potential defenses include challenging the legality of how evidence was obtained, arguing that the defendant lacked the intent to commit a cyber crime, or demonstrating that the accused was unaware they were committing an offense. Another common defense is mistaken identity, where the defendant may have been wrongfully accused due to IP address confusion or unauthorized use of their digital accounts.

At the Belén Law Firm, a Phoenix internet and computer crimes defense attorney can effectively investigate the case and leverage these or other defenses to protect the rights and interests of the accused.

Why Choose Belén Olmedo Guerra As Your Phoenix Internet Crimes Defense Attorney?

Choosing Belén Olmedo Guerra as your Phoenix internet crimes defense attorney ensures you receive top-quality legal representation from a team of skilled and experienced legal professionals. With a comprehensive understanding of both the legal and technological aspects of computer and internet crime cases, we have a proven track record of success in defending clients accused of such crimes.

The Belén Law Firm offers personalized attention, strategic defense planning, and relentless advocacy to achieve the best possible outcome for every case. Trust Belén and her team of criminal attorneys to be the advocates you need to handle your case effectively.

Call the Experienced Phoenix Criminal Defense Attorneys at Belén Law Firm for a Free Consultation Regarding Your Case

Facing an investigation and prosecution for a computer crime can be overwhelming, especially when the possibility of a guilty verdict threatens your freedom. If you’ve been arrested and are facing computer crime charges in Maricopa County or the surrounding Phoenix area, don’t face this challenge alone. The skilled Phoenix criminal defense attorneys at Belén Law Firm are here to provide you with the representation you need to mitigate the consequences of your alleged crime.

Our team understands the many challenges that come with internet-related offenses and is committed to protecting your rights and future. Let us help you build a strong defense and take the first step toward reclaiming your peace of mind. For a free consultation with an experienced Arizona internet crimes lawyer at Belén Law Firm, call our law offices at (602) 715-0908 or complete our online form today.

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What Our Clients Say

"We first hired Belen and her highly esteemed team of expert litigators. For her integrity and professionalism, but during the course of our representation, we gained a degree of personal trust and reliance far exceeding our expectations. Belen demonstrated an amazing level of genuine care and compassion and an implicit desire to keep us informed and knowledgeable of each step in the process. She is a diligent and hard worker and leaves no stone unturned. Our representation was nothing short of brilliant, creative and successful! She is without a doubt the Lady I want in my corner. I would HIGHLY recommend her to anyone interested in winning their case with the least amount of headaches throughout the process."

"Belén is hands down the BEST defense attorney out there. She has the heart, compassion, determination, backbone and most of all, the desire to help her clients. Belén’s expertise and experience helped mitigate our case to receive a reduced sentence. She spent thousands of hours over the year and a half she represented our family to challenge the prosecution at every corner and on every angle. She went above what most attorneys do by hiring her own experts and investigators to ensure she went to battle fully loaded. Due to her dedication, determination and commitment, my family felt extremely satisfied and confident that she obtained the best outcome with a reduced sentence. Belén is a stand up human being who, not only represented our family, but became family. If you want the best defense attorney, Belen is your choice!"

"At a time where we felt helpless and, quite frankly traumatized, Belen stepped in and reassured us that we had options and assured us she would work her hardest for a satisfactory resolution. My teenage son needed defense against law enforcement and my family needed legal advice and support in the worst way. Despite being beaten black and blue by police officers that said he was resisting arrest, they also charged him with two felonies. We were all at a loss and Belen was able to keep us grounded as we went through the process explaining every step along the way. She worked extremely hard to expose the truth about the officer involved, and because of her hard work, the felonies were dropped. My son can go on with his life without having his record and character tarnished by these unjust accusations."

"Hire this one! I spoke to several firms before using Belen. Every other firm connected me to a sales person who refused to allow me to speak with an attorney. Belen was put on the phone when I called at 7pm on a Saturday. Belen cared about my son. He had a warrant for his arrest and did not know until he was pulled over and hauled off to jail. Belen went to the jail on Saturday, stood with my son in jail in front of the jailhouse court judge and told that judge how it was. My son walked out 2 hours later without paying for bail. The following week, she called the prosecutor and was able to get the plea reinstated from years prior that resulted in the case being fully dismissed. Also, her fees for everything were lower than the other attorneys who were trying to get me to pay over the phone. I highly recommend Belen!"