Tempe Criminal Defense Lawyer

Tempe Criminal Defense Attorney

If you’ve been accused of a crime, it’s important to fully understand your legal rights and protections under relevant Arizona laws. Many aspects of the criminal justice system are complicated and it might feel overwhelming to navigate it on your own. A Tempe criminal defense lawyer can help explore all available defense options and collaborate to help you seek a more positive outcome.

Following criminal charges, a successful legal outcome can depend on the experience level and zealous representation of your defense attorney in your specific criminal case. A criminal conviction in Arizona can impact your future in many serious ways, and an attorney can help provide peace of mind during this stressful time.

The experienced and compassionate criminal defense attorneys at Hallam Law Group are here to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights.

What Types of Cases Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Tempe Handle?

A Tempe criminal defense attorney can help defend against a variety of charges, including:

• Drug possession
• DUI charges
• Theft and burglary
• Sexual abuse and assault
• Child pornography charges
• Criminal damage to property
• Drug sales
• Felony driving under the influence charges
• Misconduct involving weapons
• Shoplifting
• Illegal search and seizure issues
• Juvenile crimes
• Homicide and manslaughter
• Miranda violations

This is not a complete list of possible criminal charges, and a knowledgeable Tempe criminal defense attorney can discuss the types of cases they usually defend with you.

What Happens After an Arrest in Tempe, Arizona?

In Arizona, after an arrest, the criminal justice process usually includes the following:

• An initial appearance. Within 24 hours, the accused is brought in front of a judge who informs them of the criminal charges, discusses their rights, typically sets a date for their next appearance in court, and determines any applicable release conditions (such as a bond payment).
• Booking. The accused individual is processed, which usually includes taking information such as information from their driver’s license, a booking photo and a set of fingerprints.
• Release. The accused might be released if arrested for a minor crime, and then a court date is usually set; however, if the accused was arrested for a felony, they typically remain in custody until the date of their arraignment hearing.
• Arraignment. The accused enters a plea of no contest, not guilty, or guilty.
• Trial. If necessary, the accused defendant has a Constitutional right to a trial, which can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending upon the criminal charges.

An experienced Tempe criminal defense lawyer can explain the criminal justice process to you, and many local lawyers usually offer a free initial consultation.

How Can I Properly Invoke My Legal Right to Remain Silent?

You must communicate your intent to remain silent to law enforcement. You can verbalize your intent or even use any other way (in writing, electronically, etc.) to clearly indicate you are invoking your Constitutional right to remain silent.

Just staying quiet isn’t enough and can even have the unintended consequence where you seem simply uncooperative. Clearly demonstrating and expressing your intent to remain silent is the proper way to invoke your rights with any law enforcement officer.

Where Can I Find Information About Arizona’s Criminal Laws?

In our state, the criminal code in Arizona comes from laws, as passed by the Arizona State Legislature. The State Legislature defines crimes that result in criminal charges. If you’ve been charged with a crime in Arizona, the notice typically has a citation number that you can use to look up the criminal statute that you’ve been accused of violating.

Most of the criminal laws in Arizona can be found in Title 13 of the criminal code, or “A.R.S.” Some additional criminal laws are found in Title 28, including criminal traffic violations and misdemeanor DUIs.

What Happens During a Criminal Trial in Tempe?

In Arizona, a criminal trial involves many steps, which typically include the following:

• An arraignment is where the accused enters a plea of no contest, not guilty, or guilty.
• A preliminary hearing where an Arizona judge examines testimony and evidence to determine whether there’s sufficient evidence to show the accused likely committed the crimes they are charged with.
• A pretrial conference with all parties (the judge, the prosecutor, the accused and their lawyer) discuss the case and charges.
• Jury selection is where both sides question potential jurors, and after resolving any jury issues, a jury is selected.
• Opening statements when both sides (the prosecution and the accused defendant’s attorney) typically give a rundown of their case.
• The prosecution supports their case by introducing relevant evidence and any witnesses.
• The accused defendant introduces important evidence, witnesses, and any available defenses for their case.
• Closing arguments are made by both sides in the case.
• The jury makes a decision about the criminal charges in the case.
• If the accused defendant is found guilty, then the case proceeds to the sentencing phase, where a judge reviews the law, the defendant’s prior criminal history, and other relevant sentencing factors. The sentence could include imprisonment, fines, probation, or some combination of these potential consequences.
• For serious matters, the death penalty may be explored.

An attorney with pretrial and trial experience can further address any questions you might have about the criminal trial process in Arizona.

Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney Who Is Close to My House?

When deciding which attorney to hire, it’s important to make sure a potential attorney you’re considering is licensed to practice law in Arizona, regardless of their office location. It’s helpful to hire an attorney familiar with the local court structure and who is amicable with the local prosecutors and prosecutors so they can effectively negotiate your case. You can also discuss or research their experience level, qualifications, and track record defending cases like yours.

An attorney can compassionately and confidentially discuss possible representation of your case at an initial consultation to ensure they’re the right fit in your specific defense.

When Should I Hire a Tempe Criminal Defense Attorney?

When facing the complicated criminal justice system in Arizona, the decisions you make about your options can make a difference in your case. An experienced attorney can help advocate for your rights and explain the charges against you and any pleas you can explore.

When facing criminal charges, it’s important to hire an experienced attorney right away so they can start building your defense right away. Once they start, they can promptly gather the evidence necessary to successfully defend you.

Often, people accused of a crime instantly feel guilty and forget to protect their legal rights. It’s invaluable to have an attorney who’s successfully defended others facing the same charges and can provide you with peace of mind in your case.

FAQs About Criminal Defense Law in Tempe,AZ

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in Tempe?

The typical costs to hire a criminal defense attorney in Tempe vary, depending upon a few factors, like the level of attorney’s experience and the location of their office, the charges filed and case complexity, and whether your case goes to trial.

In Arizona, some attorneys charge a flat fee in some matters. You might find an experienced attorney invaluable when navigating the complex Arizona criminal justice system. You can discuss any costs before you sign a written retainer agreement.

What Are the Four Major Categories of Defenses to Crimes?

Criminal defense attorneys typically use four categories of criminal defense strategies on behalf of their clients since the criminal system requires finding guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Attorneys can argue innocence, self-defense, insanity, and violations of the Constitution.

Each defense strategy has different advantages, and your attorney can rely on their prior experience to decide what’s in your best interest when addressing your specific defense against criminal charges.

How Do I Get My Criminal Case Dismissed in Tempe?

In Tempe, your criminal case can be dismissed with one of these methods: By filing a motion to dismiss based on case foundational issues, appealing your final judgment, filing an application to set aside your conviction, and filing a petition to expunge your criminal record. A Tempe attorney with experience defending criminal cases just like yours can answer any questions you might have about seeking to dismiss your criminal case/record.

What Is a Class 1 Misdemeanor?

In Arizona, the criminal justice system divides misdemeanors into three types (classes), with Class 3 (petty offenses) being the least serious and Class 1 being the most serious. In general, a misdemeanor crime is a mid-range offense between a felony and a petty offense. Examples of Class 1 offenses include DUI charges, disorderly conduct, shoplifting, prostitution, and assault.

This is a non-exhaustive list and a knowledgeable local criminal defense attorney can further discuss Class 1 misdemeanors with you.

Contact Knowledgeable Tempe Attorneys to Successfully Defend Your Criminal Defense Matter

Have you or a loved one in Arizona been charged with a crime? You can consult an experienced and compassionate criminal defense attorney at Hallam Law Group to help successfully defend against the charges filed against you.

We have extensive experience handling cases just like yours and can help advocate for your rights. We can handle your defense and any court appearances, if they become necessary. Contact our team right away to set up a confidential and free consultation in order to start rebuilding your life.