Grand Canyon Law Group
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Criminal charges can be incredibly stressful to handle. Sentencing and penalties can be severe, especially if it is not your first offense. Harsh sentences and penalties may only be the start of the adverse impacts on your life, which can also include loss of employment, child custody issues, limitations on access to public benefits and education, and the loss of your right to drive and vote.
You deserve to have someone in your corner that will fiercely defend your rights. Having the right Avondale criminal defense lawyer could be the difference between a dismissal of a case and a conviction with severe penalties. David Lish and Ryan McPhie at Grand Canyon Law Group are former Deputy County Attorneys turned dedicated defense attorneys, so they know what to expect from the prosecution and how to fight against it. If you are facing criminal charges, reach out today to see what our skilled legal team could do for you.
Criminal offenses include both misdemeanors and felonies. A misdemeanor is a lesser crime than a felony, and may result in jail time, probation, or fines. Felonies, on the other hand, are more serious charges and may involve prison time.
Some of the common types of criminal offenses that we defend include:
Many crimes involve the possibility of substantial prison time, fines, probation, or all three. A conviction is not only problematic in the short term; it will also end up on an individual’s criminal record. We can assist accused individuals in restoring their rights following probation and even work to have past convictions set aside when possible. An Avondale attorney can ensure that criminal charges are handled the right way to protect your rights and your way of life.
There are several factors that impact sentencing for felony offenses, including the circumstances of the alleged crime and the individual’s previous history. Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-701 defines a list of aggravated and mitigating factors that a court can use to determine the penalties for an alleged crime. Aggravating factors can include the presence of an accomplice, an especially depraved or heinous manner in which the crime was committed, and a crime committed against an older adult.
Felonies are classified under state law as Class 1 through Class 6, with Class 1 being the most serious and holding the highest punishments. First-degree murder is a Class 1 felony and is punishable by up to life in prison. A seasoned Avondale defense attorney could further explain the felony classification system and the potential sentences for different crimes.
Each criminal case is unique. There are many factors that will go into determining the optimal defense strategy for the charges, requiring help from a skilled attorney.
In a criminal case, the burden of proof is always on the prosecution. This means that the defendant is presumed innocent unless the prosecutor presents sufficient evidence against them in court. At Grand Canyon Law Group, commonly used defense strategies include:
The burden of proof in a criminal case is “beyond a reasonable doubt,” so challenging this and showing that there is reasonable doubt can be a useful defense. Our lawyers could use this defense strategy, along with others, on behalf of a client facing criminal charges in Avondale.
If you are facing a criminal charge or investigation, it is critical to seek counsel from a knowledgeable legal professional as soon as possible. The more time a lawyer has to analyze your case, file necessary motions, and gather favorable evidence, the stronger your defense may be at the time of your first hearing.
An Avondale criminal defense lawyer could defend your constitutional rights and help you get your life back on track. Call today to speak with a dedicated professional from Grand Canyon Law Group.
Grand Canyon Law Group
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