Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Glendale, AZ

FAQs

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

  623-930-3000 is the non-emergency contact number of the local police station in Glendale.

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

  To acquire a copy of your police report in person, head to the Records Bureau of the Glendale Police Department located at 6835 N. 57th Avenue, Glendale, Arizona 85301. For further inquiries, contact the office at 623-930-3000.

• What should you do if you are arrested and charged with a crime in Glendale?

  If you are detained and accused of a crime, it is crucial to exercise your right to remain silent and promptly seek the assistance of a competent Glendale defense lawyer. Refrain from disclosing any information regarding your case to the authorities or anyone else until your attorney is present. By retaining a lawyer as soon as possible after your arrest or accusation, your legal representative can start working on your case immediately to pursue a favorable outcome. This can prove instrumental in constructing a robust defense.

• How can a defense attorney help you fight criminal charges in Glendale?

  In Glendale, a defense lawyer has the ability to contest procedural mistakes and improper lines of questioning, scrutinize the evidence to create doubt that can benefit the defendant, summon expert witnesses, point out specific details about the defendant to potentially obtain a less severe sentence, and negotiate a plea agreement on behalf of their client.

• What are the potential penalties for criminal offenses in Glendale?

  In Arizona, including Glendale, the consequences for criminal violations depend on the nature and gravity of the accusations. Convictions for violent crimes may result in extended imprisonment, financial penalties, compensation to victims and their loved ones, probation, revocation of professional permits, registration as a sex offender, and harm to one's reputation.

• What will happen to your driver's license if you are convicted of DUI in Glendale?

  If found guilty of a DUI in Glendale, your driver's license could be suspended for up to one year. Similarly, refusing to undergo a chemical BAC test may lead to a one-year suspension of your license. You may be eligible to resume driving with a restricted license after 90 days, permitting travel to mandatory events such as work, medical appointments, and childcare. Upon license reinstatement, you may be obligated to utilize an interlock device, which requires a breath test every time you start your vehicle.

• Will you have to go to court if you are arrested for a DUI in Glendale?

  As a result of a DUI arrest in Glendale, you may have to appear in court. However, depending on the charges and jurisdiction, a criminal defense attorney may be able to represent you. Those who refuse to submit to a chemical test are required to attend a DMV administrative hearing, which can be represented by an attorney.

• 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.