Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Avondale

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Avondale Police Department Main Station is (623) 333-7001.

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

  Police report for accidents in Avondale can be obtained from the Police Department Records Unit. More information can be acquired via (623) 333-7002.

• What are the court proceedings for criminal defense cases in Avondale?

  The initial appearance is done before an Avondale City Court judge for criminal defense cases involving minor traffic violations and not-so-minor misdemeanor offenses. Criminal proceedings for misdemeanor DUIs may be held at the Avondale City Court or the Maricopa County Superior Court. Additionally, criminal investigations involving drug trafficking, unlawful sexual conduct, white-collar crimes, burglary, or vehicular manslaughter will likely be tried in superior court.

• What are the factors that impact sentencing for criminal offenses in Avondale?

  Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-701 has defined a list of aggravated and mitigating factors that impact sentencing for criminal offenses in Avondale and the rest of the state. Those factors can include crimes with an accomplice, an especially depraved or heinous crime, and crimes against an older adult.

• What should a person do if they are arrested or charged with a crime in Avondale?

  People arrested or charged with a crime in Avondale should speak to an attorney and refrain from answering questions except for providing their name, address, or identification. They will be guided by criminal defense attorneys about what they should or should not say to law enforcement officers to prevent misinterpretation or misunderstanding.

• What are the legal rights of an individual subjected to a criminal arrest in Avondale?

  Citizens in Avondale have the Miranda Rights to protect themselves while being arrested, and this is granted by the United States Constitution. Law enforcement officers should give warnings about a person’s right to remain silent, that anything they say may be used against them, that they have a right to have a lawyer present while being questioned, and a lawyer will be appointed if they cannot afford one. Those not given these warnings can ask the court to suppress any statements given to the police after the arrest.

• How much will it cost to hire an Avondale criminal defense attorney?

  Flat fee charges are generally used for criminal defense cases in Avondale. However, there are instances where an hourly basis is used, and a deposit is required to retain an attorney’s services. The fees would depend on the difficulty of legal questions and the amount of work involved in the case.

• 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.