What Happens After Criminal Charges in Maricopa County?

Next Steps, Legal Processes, and Financial Considerations

Finding out you’ve been formally charged with a crime in Maricopa County, even after securing an attorney during the investigation phase, can feel overwhelming. However, having an attorney already on your side gives you a crucial advantage. Not only are they familiar with your situation, but they’re ready to act swiftly to protect your rights and mount a robust defense. Here’s what happens next and what you should know about legal representation for the charges.

How Your Attorney Will Proceed After Charges Are Filed

Once charges are filed, your attorney’s role transitions from pre-charge advocacy to active defense in your criminal case. Here’s what to expect:

1. Signing an Updated Agreement

If your attorney represented you during the investigation, they will typically require you to sign an updated representation agreement for the formal criminal charges. This ensures that the scope of their representation now includes defending you through the court process.

Why the Update?: The responsibilities of pre-charge legal representation differ significantly from those involved in defending formal charges. The updated agreement outlines these new duties.

New Fees: Representation for active charges often comes with an additional fee, as defending against criminal charges requires more time and resources. Your attorney will discuss these fees with you.

2. Reviewing the Charges

Your attorney will analyze the formal charges filed by prosecutors, examining:

• The legal basis for the charges.
• The evidence cited to support them.
• Any procedural or constitutional issues during the investigation.

For example, if you’re charged with a felony in Phoenix, your attorney will ensure the charges align with the evidence and challenge anything unsupported or improperly obtained.

3. Preparing Your Initial Court Appearance

Your first court appearance, known as an initial appearance or arraignment, is critical. At this stage:

• The court formally notifies you of the charges.
• Your attorney will enter a plea, often “not guilty” at this point.
• The judge may address bail or release conditions.

With an attorney: You’re more likely to receive favorable terms, such as reduced bail or release on your own recognizance.

4. Beginning Discovery and Building Your Defense

After charges are filed, the discovery phase begins. Your attorney will:

• Obtain and review all evidence the prosecution intends to use.
• Investigate further, gathering evidence and identifying witnesses to support your defense.
• File motions to suppress or dismiss evidence if there were constitutional violations, such as illegal searches or coerced statements.

What You Need to Do If You’re Charged

If charges are filed while you already have an attorney, your primary focus should be on cooperating fully with their requests and following their advice. Here’s what you can do to support your defense:

1. Communicate Openly with Your Attorney

Your attorney needs accurate and complete information to build a strong defense. Be honest about your situation and provide any documentation or evidence they request.

2. Understand the Updated Fee Agreement

Review the updated agreement carefully. Most attorneys will work with you to set up payment plans or flexible arrangements for the new phase of representation.

3. Avoid Discussing the Case with Others

Even after charges are filed, do not talk about your case with friends, family, or law enforcement. Anything you say can still be used against you.

Why an Updated Agreement and Fee Are Necessary

Pre-charge representation focuses on preventing charges or negotiating with law enforcement to reduce the likelihood of prosecution. Once charges are filed, the legal process shifts to preparing for court, which requires significant additional work:

• Court Appearances: Your attorney will represent you at multiple hearings, such as arraignments, pretrial conferences, and motion hearings.
• Legal Motions: Filing and arguing motions to dismiss evidence, reduce charges, or dismiss the case altogether.
• Trial Preparation: If your case proceeds to trial, your attorney will develop strategies, cross-examine witnesses, and present evidence.

This additional work justifies the need for an updated agreement and new fee structure, ensuring your attorney can dedicate the necessary resources to your defense.

What Happens if Charges Are Filed Late?

In some cases, charges may be filed weeks, months, or even years after the alleged offense, as long as the statute of limitations allows. Here’s how your attorney handles these situations:

Delayed Charges

If charges are filed long after the alleged incident, your attorney may argue that:

• Evidence Has Degraded: Witnesses’ memories may have faded, or physical evidence may no longer be reliable.
• Procedural Delays Are Unjustified: Your attorney can challenge whether the delay in filing charges unfairly impacted your ability to mount a defense.

Prosecutorial Strategy

In Maricopa County, prosecutors sometimes delay filing charges to gather additional evidence or wait for better timing. Your attorney will examine whether these delays violate your rights.

How Grand Canyon Law Group Handles Post-Charge Representation

At Grand Canyon Law Group, we understand the stress and uncertainty of facing criminal charges. Whether we’ve represented you during the pre-charge phase or you’re coming to us after charges are filed, we’re ready to fight for you every step of the way.

Our Process After Charges Are Filed

• Immediate Action: We move quickly to review the charges and evidence.
• Comprehensive Defense: Our attorneys craft a tailored strategy based on your case’s unique circumstances.
• Aggressive Advocacy: From court hearings to negotiations with prosecutors, we fight to protect your rights and secure the best outcome.

Contact Grand Canyon Law Group for Representation

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Maricopa County, don’t face the legal system alone. Call Grand Canyon Law Group at (480) 573-6441 for a confidential consultation. Whether you’re continuing representation or starting fresh with our firm, we’re here to protect your future and fight for the best possible resolution.