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If you or a loved one has been arrested or charged with a crime in Tucson, Arizona, contact AZ Defenders to find out how we can help with your case. We are a highly experienced criminal defense law firm that has the resources to fight for the best possible case results for our clients. We understand how frightening and overwhelming it is to face criminal charges; we are here to help you avoid severe penalties and protect your future. Call (480) 908-9321 today for a free and confidential case review.
Hiring a criminal defense attorney from AZ Defenders can make it easier to face what comes next as a defendant. Your lawyer can start by thoroughly investigating the charges against you, such as looking into the alleged crime and discovering what evidence the prosecutor has. Your lawyer can search for any procedural issues or reasons to have the case dismissed. If dismissal is not possible, your lawyer can represent you during a criminal trial.
An experienced attorney will give you a legal perspective on your case, collect evidence, interview witnesses and build a defense on your behalf. You can trust your attorney to negotiate a plea agreement on your behalf, for example, or fight to have you acquitted (found not guilty) at trial. The right lawyer will do everything possible to protect you and your rights during this difficult time.
Our founder, Attorney Craig Rosenstein, has a reputation in the community and among his peers as a compassionate and effective Tucson criminal defense attorney. At AZ Defenders, there is no criminal defense case we can’t handle. If you are facing a charge of any kind or degree, from a misdemeanor to a felony, we can help.
We have experience in all areas of criminal law, including:
Craig is one of only four lawyers in the State of Arizona who are board-certified in DUI law. He and his team are well-known trial attorneys who represent clients throughout the state in a variety of criminal justice matters. Our criminal defense attorneys also offer post-conviction relief, such as representation during appeals and expungements.
DUI defense is one of our specialties at AZ Defenders. We have the only two board-certified DUI attorneys in Maricopa County. Driving under the influence refers to operating or being in actual physical control of a motor vehicle while intoxicated by drugs, liquor or a vapor-releasing substance. The punishments for a DUI conviction can include jail time, thousands of dollars in fines, an ignition interlock device and the suspension of your driver’s license.
Our DUI defense strategies are always custom-tailored to each client’s specific needs and circumstances. Your defense may involve arguments against the polity of a breath or urine test, the reliability of a field sobriety test, or an assertion that you were not in control of a vehicle at the time. If you or a loved one has been arrested for allegedly driving under the influence in Tucson, we will work relentlessly to help you avoid Arizona’s severe punishments for DUI convictions with a personalized legal strategy.
Federal law gives defendants in criminal cases certain constitutional rights. These rights cannot be violated; if they are, such as by a police officer who is guilty of misconduct, this could lead to the criminal case being dismissed or certain evidence being ruled inadmissible. It is important to understand your rights so that you will be able to protect them throughout the legal process.
Your rights as a criminal defendant include:
If you get arrested for an alleged criminal offense in Arizona, tell the law enforcement officer that you do not waive any of your constitutional rights. Then, use your right to remain silent. Do not answer any questions asked by a law enforcement officer until you have an attorney or legal representative present. If any of your constitutional rights are violated during your arrest or the legal process, this could be used by an attorney as part of your defense strategy.
Criminal defense should not be a one-size-fits-all solution. Your defense must be custom-tailored to your unique situation to achieve optimal results. Determining factors can include the details of the alleged offense, the evidence against you and your criminal background. The criminal defense attorneys at AZ Defenders always take the time to personalize our clients’ defenses.
Common defense strategies that may be of use in your case include:
Our lawyers in Tucson will work relentlessly to build the strongest possible defense to the charge(s) being brought against you. For example, we can work to poke holes in the prosecutor’s case and establish reasonable doubt at trial. We will review all of your legal options with you in detail, which may include reduced charges, a plea bargain or a criminal trial.
The more you know about the criminal justice process in Arizona, the more peace of mind you will have during this difficult time. While every case is unique, the steps taken to investigate a reported crime, bring charges against one or more suspects, and determine whether a defendant is guilty remain essentially the same.
In general, here is what to expect from a criminal case in Tucson:
A Tucson criminal defense lawyer from AZ Defenders can represent you during every stage of the criminal justice process, from start to finish. We will use tailored legal strategies to fight for the best possible results for your case. While our lawyers do not automatically recommend plea deals to every client, we can often resolve cases before they go to trial. If not, our experienced trial attorneys can go to court on your behalf.
If you get arrested in Tucson, try to remain calm and remember to use your right to remain silent. One of the most common mistakes made by suspects is accidental self-incrimination by saying the wrong thing during police interrogations. You are not legally required to answer any questions asked by the police except to give your name. The less you say, the less they will have to potentially use against you.
Do not resist arrest. You will have the chance to fight the charges or allegations against you later; resisting arrest will only result in additional charges and the potential for injury. Once you are brought to the county police precinct and “booked” – meaning your mugshots and fingerprints have been recorded – you will be given one phone call. If you use it to contact a loved one, be aware that the police can listen in on your conversation. They cannot, however, listen to a phone call with your attorney.
If you are facing any type of criminal charge in Tucson, contact a criminal defense lawyer near you as soon as possible. It is critical not to underestimate how much an arrest or criminal charge could affect your future. Even a misdemeanor can have long-lasting ramifications on your life and livelihood, including interfering with your ability to find work or drive a motor vehicle. Hiring the right attorney from the beginning of your case is the best form of protection.
During your search for the best Tucson criminal defense attorney, it is important to realize that not all private defense attorneys are created equal. One will be most suited to take your case and represent you in and out of court based on that attorney’s experience, past case results, accolades, client testimonials and other factors.
When choosing your criminal defense lawyer in Arizona, look for the following:
Take your time in choosing the right criminal defense lawyer for you. This is a critical step in ensuring that you have the best possible legal representation in your criminal case. At AZ Defenders, we offer free initial consultations so that you can speak to an attorney and get to know us at no cost or obligation.
Q: When should I answer police questions during or after an arrest?
A: Never. The only question you are legally required to answer is to give your name. Otherwise, use your right to remain silent to protect yourself as much as possible. Politely refuse to answer questions asked by a police officer and repeat that you wish to speak to your attorney until you are allowed to make a phone call.
Q: I’ve been offered a plea deal. Should I take it?
A: Always consult with an attorney before accepting a plea deal offered by a prosecutor. An attorney will carefully analyze your case and review the deal to determine if it is fair and reasonable based on the circumstances. An attorney may be able to negotiate a better plea agreement on your behalf or may recommend rejecting the deal and going to trial.
Q: How much does a criminal defense lawyer in Tucson cost?
A: This answer depends on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the law firm, the attorney’s experience and where your case is being tried. Some criminal defense lawyers charge an hourly rate while others work for a flat fee. Discuss the cost of hiring the attorney before signing anything. At AZ Defenders, initial consultations are free and we are available 24/7.
You do not have to face criminal charges alone. Contact the Tucson criminal defense attorneys at AZ Defenders for advice, assistance and a customized defense strategy. Whether or not this is your first encounter with the criminal justice system, it is imperative to hire an experienced attorney to represent you. One of our attorneys can aggressively defend your rights through every phase of the legal process from start to finish.
Speak to an attorney about your specific case today at no cost or obligation. Call us at (480) 908-9321 to schedule a free, confidential case consultation.