Arizona Local Criminal Defense Lawyer
Top-Rated Defense Lawyers For DUI, Drug Crimes & Criminal Charges In Arizona
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Defending Misdemeanor And Felony Charges
Drug Offenses
If you are caught buying, attempting to buy, or in possession of drugs, you could face a variety of criminal charges in Arizona. This might simply mean consumption or possession, but depending on how much you have on you at the time of arrest, you could also be charged with manufacturing or intent to distribute. You can be arrested for drugs that are illegal across the board, such as methamphetamines, cocaine, and heroine. You could also be arrested for drugs that are technically legal, like if you have more marijuana on your person than state law allows, or if you have someone’s prescription medications besides your own.
DUI
Some states use the acronym DWI for driving while intoxicated, but Arizona for the most part uses DUI, or driving under the influence. If you are age 21 or older, a DUI conviction carries a mandatory jail sentence, the minimum of which increases for a high BAC or multiple DUI convictions. You can be charged for driving not just under the influence of alcohol, but illegal drugs and legal drugs such as marijuana and certain prescription medications as well. You can even be charged with aggravated DUI, which is a felony, under certain circumstances.
Reckless Driving
This charge can encompass a wide variety of behaviors while behind the wheel of a car in Arizona. Someone who is convicted of reckless driving is convicted of driving “with reckless disregard” for the safety of the people and property around them. You can be arrested for reckless driving while sober if you are driving far faster than the speed limit, swerving, racing, and more. However, sometimes reckless driving is the lesser of two evils when it comes to criminal convictions. Reckless driving doesn’t come with mandatory jail time like a DUI does, so we sometimes negotiate for our clients to plead guilty to reckless driving instead.
Homicide
Homicide is a broad term for the criminal charges someone will face for taking someone’s life. This is the most serious crime with which you can be charged, and the only offense that is punishable by the death penalty. With all that’s at stake with homicide charges, you should make sure that you proceed with an experienced, reputable defense attorney. There might be a relevant defense, such as self-defense, that will help reduce the penalties you face. Our lawyers have the expertise and resources to aggressively defend your case.
Assault
Arizona lumps together the terms “assault” and “battery” so that they both mean a physical attack or the threat of one. A simple assault is a misdemeanor, but aggravated assault is a serious felony that carries a prison sentence of up to 12 years. You will have a tough time finding housing and employment after serving your time for an assault conviction in Arizona.
Theft Crimes
Having a theft conviction on your criminal record won’t make life any easier for you. Employers are hesitant to hire those found guilty of theft. Theft charges range from petty offense to felony. Even petty theft will have negative consequences on your life. Other convictions of more serious crimes include robbery 0r aggravated robbery. You will face prison time if you are convicted of a felony theft charge. Let our experienced criminal defense team prepare you for all that’s to come, and represent you throughout your legal proceedings.
Sexual Assault Crimes
Being convicted of a felony sex crime will mean a miserable prison experience, and most likely a miserable experience after release. You may have to register as a sex offender after your release, which will make it harder to find a job, a place to live, and more. Our defense team will pore over the details of your case to find every possible argument against the charges you face.
Juvenile Offenses
Most of the mistakes that children make are just that- mistakes. But when a minor’s offense is serious enough, they can still be charged with a crime. Depending on your child’s age and other factors, your child could even be charged as an adult for some crimes. You should take every precaution possible to make sure your child doesn’t face the consequences for a crime like drug possession, DUI, theft, assault, and more, at an early age.
White Collar Crimes
These types of crimes are often federal offenses, which can complicate your case even further than it already is. Examples of white collar crimes include money laundering, embezzlement, fraud, and RICO offenses. These are non-violent offenses that still come with serious penalties. Our firm is prepared to handle such charges, along with any other criminal charges that may accompany them.
Protect Your Future With Our Skilled Criminal Defense Attorneys
Retain Our Experienced Representation
Whether you’re dealing with a divorce, facing a DUI, or filing for bankruptcy, our attorneys have the experience and skills necessary to represent you in court, work out plea deals, protect your rights, and ensure circumstances are as much in your favor as possible. With over 15 years of experience under our belts as well as an in-depth education, you can count on us to be your advocates throughout the legal process. Contact us today for a free same-day consultation and we will determine what your options are.
Expert Criminal Defense Lawyers in Arizona
Arizona’s Best Criminal Justice Lawyer – Misdemeanor And Felony Charges
My AZ Lawyers provides top rated misdemeanor criminal defense assistance to Arizona residents. There are a variety of criminal charges you can face in Arizona, all of which will be detrimental to most aspects of your life. We work in a detail-oriented fashion, making sure no possible key to your freedom is left untried. You deserve the best possible defense to mitigate the negative impact it will have on your life.
Affordable Legal Costs To Retain An Arizona Criminal Justice Lawyer Nearby
You may be thinking that you can’t afford legal services; however, you have the right to choose you own attorney, and My AZ Lawyers strives to make that more within reach of Arizona residents’ budgets. Our hourly rates are reasonable, as are our retainer fees, or a down payment to get your case started. We offer monthly payment plans to pay the rest of your fees. There isn’t time to waste after you have been arrested or charged with a crime in Arizona.
Local Criminal Law Attorney – Best Criminal Defense Attorney Near You
Trust the experienced attorneys at My AZ Lawyers when you need aggressive, thorough, and affordable criminal defense. Book a free consultation and case evaluation with a felony defense lawyer near you. Put our legal team on your side to protect your rights. If you are facing the Arizona criminal justice system, you must hire a highly skilled legal representative. Our law firm holds a reputation for providing affordable, expert, quality legal help.
Comprehensive Criminal Defense Legal Services In Arizona
Experienced Defense Attorneys In Arizona
Defending Criminal Charges
Defending against criminal charges is a stressful experience. Therefore, our AZ Defense Attorneys strive to take as much stress out of the process as possible for you. Depending on the specific facts of your case, you may have a strong enough defense to have your charges reduced or even dropped. Thus, our experienced Arizona defense lawyers will discuss your options with you during your free initial consultation. Plus, our consultations can be held in office or over the phone, and can be conducted by someone else on your behalf. Couple that with low retainers and fees. Alas, we are the Arizona Criminal Defense Firm that you seek.
Best Local Criminal Defense Attorney
Aggressive Defense Representation
Best Local Criminal Defense Legal Representation With Affordable Pricing
Every case is unique, meaning it requires dedicated time, investigation, and research. There may be special defenses available in your case, or you might even be wrongly accused. Our defense team will thoroughly review every detail of your case to prepare the strongest possible defense against the charges you face. Your case will also be analyzed for potential violations of your constitutional rights. Whether the police didn’t have reasonable suspicion or probable cause to detain you, or if the police failed to read your Miranda rights, we will utilize every possible defense mechanism to reduce the consequences you face after an Arizona arrest.
Criminal Charges Attorney Near You
How Working With An Arizona Private Defense Attorney Can Help Your Situation
When facing criminal charges in Arizona, you need to work proactively on your defense as soon as possible. Investigation needs to be done promptly so that physical evidence isn’t lost and eyewitnesses don’t forget their memories. Oftentimes, public defenders simply don’t have the time or resources to conduct as thorough of an investigation into your case as a private defense attorney. We will let you know which steps we can take for your case during your free consultation. Case investigation will begin once you have retained our firm.
Steps To Take If Arrested Or
Charged With A Criminal Offense
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The Crucial Role Of Remaining Silent After An Arrest
After an arrest, you will be informed that “anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law”. It is crucial that you keep this in mind and remain silent, even if you are innocent and attempt to explain your innocence. Your silence allows your attorney many more defense options than if you had said something that the court could use as evidence. If you remain silent when arrested, you can rest assured that your story will be shared through your attorney.
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How to Request a Lawyer Immediately
It is essential to request a lawyer immediately. Your arrest will lead to interrogation and before you say anything, you have a right to tell the police, “I want a lawyer.” Make sure you are clear. If you clearly request a lawyer, the interrogation will stop and you will be allowed to contact your lawyer. Contacting a lawyer immediately ensures that you do not say anything that can be used against you in court. Utilizing this right is helpful, you cannot be punished for asking for a lawyer.
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The Risks Of Making Decisions Without Legal Counsel
The legal system is complicated and there are many nuances that are hard to remember. If you choose not to pursue legal counsel, you may be putting your case at risk. You may experience unfavorable rulings like having your case dismissed because you did not file the required paperwork, or you could give up visitation rights with your kids because you did not understand your options. Lawyers can ensure the best possible outcome for your case in ways you cannot do alone.
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The Value of Being Polite to Law Enforcement
When interacting with police officers, it can cause a lot of mixed emotions. Despite whatever emotions arise, our lawyers at My AZ Lawyers typically say it is essential to remain polite during the encounter. Disrespect is typically noted in police reports and could harm your case if a judge reads it. Being cooperative and polite will not only provide the police with less reason to think you might be combative, but will also ensure the best possible outcome for your case.
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Reaching Out To Your Lawyer
Reaching out to your criminal defense lawyer will help you build a strong case right from the beginning. Our lawyers at My AZ Lawyers have extensive experience building defenses based on your specific case. Start by scheduling a free same-day consultation where we will take a look at your case and see what we can do going forward. From there, you can count on us to be a strong advocate for you throughout the entire court process.
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Adhering To Legal Advice
No matter what kind of allegation you’re facing, our lawyers have the tools necessary to defend your case. Because of this, it is essential that you adhere to all legal advice throughout the process. Our lawyers have an in-depth understanding of Arizona law and are able to ensure you follow all requirements and guidelines for the best possible outcome in your case. From family law matters to criminal defense, we have you covered!
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The Necessity Of Attending All Court Hearings
Choosing not to attend court hearings could lead to serious ramifications in your case, not least of all, an arrest. You should attend all of your court hearings from the first one until your attorney tells you that you no longer have any hearings left. By attending court hearings, you will be cooperating and ensure the process goes as quickly as possible and as smoothly as possible. Our attorneys will attend the court hearings with you to ensure your rights are protected.
Facing Criminal Charges? Protect Your Liberty with Our Arizona Criminal Defense Team
After being charged with a crime in Arizona, you have the right to select your own attorney to defend you. That might mean going with a public defender, or you could choose a practiced private defense attorney. While many assume that hiring a private defender is only for wealthy people, our criminal defense team can make high quality, private representation surprisingly affordable. My AZ Lawyers will aggressively defend your case to the best of our abilities, helping you face less penalties for the crimes of which you are accused.
Our Clients’ Testimonials
5-Star Rated Arizona Criminal Defense Law Firm
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Effective Defense Strategies For Criminal Cases In Arizona
Alibi Defense
Experience a robust defense by claiming that you were somewhere else when the crime happened. This defense helps prove that you were not at the scene of the crime and therefore could not have committed it.
Self-Defense
Many alleged crimes turn out to be actions done in self-defense. If this was you, our attorneys can use the evidence to prove that you were only acting to defend yourself and that the allegations as they are should be dropped.
Entrapment
If law enforcement was involved in inducing or coercing you to commit a crime that you likely would not have committed otherwise, your attorney can use this information as a strong defense in your favor.
Insanity Defense
Discover how our attorneys can use the insanity defense to prove that you were not responsible for what you did because you were not in a mentally well place to understand the impact and wrongfulness of your actions.
Constitutional Violations
Were your constitutional rights violated during the investigation or trial process? If so, you might have grounds to reduce or dismiss your charges altogether. Contact our attorneys to find out if your rights were violated.
Phases Of The Criminal Defense Process
Affordable Legal Services In Arizona
Criminal defense cases often operate far differently in real life than how you have seen in movies and television shows. Therefore, confident ignorance could land you in jail for longer than you need to be. Plus, it results in a higher bail or fines, and more. Thus, there is a reason that lawyers have to go to school for several years and pass a difficult exam to earn the right to represent clients. Our Attorneys strive to go above and beyond baseline standards for typical criminal defense attorneys to give our clients a thorough, assertive defense.
There are several stages in a criminal prosecution in Arizona. These stages of prosecution, each of which our team can help you with once retained.
Stages Of Criminal Prosecution In Arizona:
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Arrest
The police might say you are being detained, or placed into custody, but it all means that you have been placed under arrest. The police must have probable cause to believe that you have committed a crime in order to place you under arrest. You should also be read your Miranda Rights when you are taken into police custody.
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Bail
Most people placed under arrest will have the opportunity to pay bail, which is a conditional release fee. Typically, bail fees are higher for someone who has committed a serious or violent crime, or is considered a flight risk. However, the court can sometimes set a bail that is infeasibly high for the average person to pay- and if you’re unable to pay bail, you are stuck waiting in jail until your case is resolved. Our defense attorneys can help argue for a more reasonable bail so that you can prepare for trial from the comfort of your own home.
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Indictment
An indictment is a hearing in which the court formally accuses of the crimes with which you are charged. Unfortunately, the grand jury will only hear the prosecution’s side of events, for the most part. If you are indicted, it means the jury believes the government has sufficient evidence against you for the charges at hand.
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Arraignment
An arraignment should take place within a reasonable amount of time after you have been arrested. The charges will be described in detail, including the date(s) of the offense and which statutes have specifically been violated. You will have the choice to plead guilty, not guilty, or nolo contendere (no contest).
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Preliminary Hearing
Preliminary hearings are used for non-indictment felonies in Arizona. The prosecutor may present some or all of the evidence and witness testimony against you at this hearing. Your attorney can ask questions about this evidence, but you are not afforded the right to present your own evidence in this hearing. The police officer who placed you under arrest may be present at this hearing. A commissioner will meet with your defense lawyer and determine if the crime you are accused of occurred, and that you most likely are the person who committed the offense. If so, your case will proceed to the initial pre-trial conference (IPTC).
Defense Avenues For Your Case
Once we have explored different avenues of defense for you, we will contact the prosecution to begin negotiating a dismissal or charge reduction. Our Arizona Criminal Defense Attorneys have experience dealing with local prosecutors, so we are prepared to address all of their tactics and strategies. We’ll help you avoid manipulation and intimidation, which can lead to unfavorable plea agreements. Don’t assume that jail time is inevitable – our legal team may be able to negotiate a plea deal that doesn’t involve jail time, get your charges dropped, or win your case at trial. To learn more, call to schedule your free consultation at 480-833-8000.
If you have been charged with a serious crime, you simply cannot afford to put your future in the hands of an inexperienced defense lawyer. If you do, your rights and your future will be at grave risk.
Criminal Defense is sometimes necessary. If you have been charged with a crime, you need a trusted and experienced Arizona criminal defense lawyer to represent you. Whether or not you are guilty of the crime, you have legal rights.
You have the right to representation and a fair trial. Therefore, a criminal defense attorney can fight for justice on your behalf.
Without the right legal advocate in your corner, you could be wrongly prosecuted. In fact, you could serve a longer prison sentence or pay higher fines. A criminal conviction can be life-altering, affecting your ability to get work. As well as, affect your ability to participate in the full range of civic life.
My AZ Lawyers serves clients in the Mesa, Phoenix, Glendale, Avondale, and Tucson areas. Also, our Tucson criminal defense lawyers have years of experience. Plus, our criminal defense attorneys have courtroom and trial experience. They also have the expert training and experience you need to represent you and try to get the best outcome for your case.
Working With Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys
The Glendale criminal defense attorneys at My AZ Lawyers can represent through every phase of your case. When you are first charged, your criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your legal rights. Also, our Glendale criminal defense attorneys will guide you through arraignment and posting bail. If a plea bargain is on the table, your criminal defense attorney can give you guidance on how to make the tough decision of whether to accept it, negotiate it or reject it altogether.
Our Criminal Defense Practice
When you hire us to defend you on any criminal charge, we conduct a thorough investigation of what happened, looking carefully at police reports and questioning all relevant witnesses to craft the most effective defense. We’ll look at how police gathered evidence against you, confirming that there was probable cause for any search, seizure or arrest. If irregularities are found, we’ll seek to exclude evidence improperly obtained or dismiss charges, if appropriate. We handle all types of criminal cases in Arizona, from traffic offenses and misdemeanors to felony charges.
Our experienced Arizona defense lawyers defend people charged with all types of crimes, including:
- Homicide—murder, manslaughter and involuntary manslaughter
- Theft crimes—grand and petty larceny, shoplifting, misappropriation of goods, embezzlement
- Drug offenses—possession, trafficking, cultivation and conspiracy
- Sex crimes—sexual assault, rape, molestation, public lewdness, and prostitution and soliciting
- DUI/DWI—driving under the influence, driving while intoxicated
- Firearms—Gun violations
- Physical Assault and battery, robbery, burglary
- Arson
- White collar crimes
- Computer and internet crimes
Plea Bargain
In some cases, a plea bargain can be a valuable tool for reducing sentencing, but in other cases, it is used as an intimidation tool. Our criminal defense attorneys look at a plea bargain as a last resort. Therefore, when selecting an attorney to defend your case, seek one that isn’t just wanting to cram a plea down your throat.
Your Tucson criminal defense lawyer from My AZ Lawyers can help you find other ways to reduce sentencing and other penalties. Whereas, this may be possible without ever going to court; however, your lawyer is prepared to represent you at trial, if necessary. Therefore, getting a reduction in sentencing can help you to avoid jail time altogether or to have the opportunity to start your life again as quickly as possible after receiving sentencing. Contact our defense lawyers for more advice.
Furthermore, don’t gamble with your future. If you have been charged with a crime, call My AZ Lawyers to find out how our criminal defense attorneys may be able to help you.
Things To Know Regarding Criminal Charges In Arizona
1. Charged with a crime does not mean a conviction. The fact that you may have received a summons or been arrested for a crime does not mean you have been convicted of that crime. Convictions in Arizona occur when either someone pleads guilty to a crime or is found guilty of a crime at trial. ALL Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. It is the job of the State or the Prosecutor’s office to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the person charged with the crime actually committed the crime. Therefore, the assistance of experienced Arizona Criminal defense attorneys are extremely helpful in attempting to prevent a conviction.
2. You may be able to avoid a conviction. Even if you don’t have the best of cases, you still may be able to avoid a conviction of a crime. Therefore, our experienced Arizona criminal attorneys will work with you every step pf the way. Plus, there are a number of things that our criminal defense team will do to achieve a positive outcome on your case. Also, we can help determine strategies to help avoid conviction by helping you complete treatment, rehabilitative and educational classes, community service, etc. These factors can be used to demonstrate to the prosecution that leniency should be considered.
3. The Arizona criminal justice process. The criminal justice process in Arizona may seem very confusing, especially to someone who has never dealt with it. Basically, it involves an arraignment, motions, pretrial status conferences, trial, and sentencing. Thus, the assistance of a dedicated criminal defense lawyer to help guide you through the criminal defense process would be a highly suggested option.
FAQs About Our Criminal Defense Lawyers
Read Our Blog & Learn More About Criminal Defense
We want to make sure you have as much information as possible at your fingertips. Check out our blog which is full of helpful information on criminal defense and more!
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