Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Goodyear

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Goodyear, Arizona?

  To reach the Goodyear Police Department, call (623) 932-1220.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Goodyear, Arizona?

  To obtain a police report from the Goodyear Police Department, call (623) 882-7670 to check for its availability and for more information. You can also pay a visit to the Records Division located at 11 N. 145th Ave. Please be informed that the report costs $0.50 per page and that the department does not accept personal checks, and debit and credit cards as methods of payment.

• Is there a difference in the way an adult and a juvenile case is handled in Goodyear?

  A juvenile court handles any cases involving minors aged 8 to 18 where the decision is made by a judge, unlike an "adult" court where a jury does this. However, children above 15 who commit violent crimes are often tried as adults. Additionally, most offending minors are eligible for something called "pre-filing diversion" programs in Goodyear where they are educated and rehabilitated to keep themselves from committing more crimes.

• Is Arson considered a felony in Goodyear?

  It is generally considered a Class 4 or 5 felony in Goodyear because of its great potential to inflict severe injuries and even death. This carries a potential sentence of at least 1 year to 3 years imprisonment, an additional 4 years of probation, and a fine of up to $150,000. Arson can include setting fire to forest lands or to pets, or causing a car or a building to explode.

• Does Goodyear have different classifications for its DUI charges?

  Yes, because Goodyear follows Arizona's strict laws when it comes to drunk driving. Here are the classifications listed in increasing severity:

  • Misdemeanor DUI: BAC is at 0.08%, license suspension, fine of up to $1,000
  • Extreme DUI: BAC is between 0.15% to 0.19%, mandatory jail sentence of up to a week
  • Super Extreme DUI: BAC is above 0.20%, 45-day jail sentence
  • Felony aggravated DUI: Mandatory 4-month prison sentence

• Can you have your record expunged for possessing marijuana in Goodyear?

  Luckily, this is now possible. The state of Arizona just legalized recreational marijuana last November 2020. This opens the door for some people convicted of possessing, consuming, cultivating, or processing cannabis to file for a petition for expungement. To make sure of your eligibility, acquire the aid of a criminal defense attorney in Goodyear.

• How long do you stay in prison for embezzlement in Goodyear?

  It depends on how much you've embezzled and the skillful of your hired attorney. Generally, if the amount stolen totals to $1,000 or less, the offender may be looking at a few months in prison and a 3-year probation. The offender may even qualify for a mitigated sentence if they didn't play a big role in the scheme. However, if the amount soars to more than $25,000, it becomes a Class 2 felony punishable by up to 12 years in prison.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.