Criminal accusations, investigations, and charges can change your life entirely. The process of defending these accusations can be stressful, but it is crucial to avoid a criminal conviction that could lead to significant penalties. Not only can a conviction lead to prison or jail time, but you may also be left to pay substantial fines and fees.
Effectively defending your freedom and way of life requires the skillful guidance of a legal professional. If you are facing arrest, a Flagstaff criminal defense lawyer could help fight for your rights. Call Grand Canyon Law Group today to learn more.
The defense attorneys at Grand Canyon Law Group know what to expect from the prosecution and have the expertise needed to properly defend your case. Criminal charges that we handle include:
State law classifies criminal charges as either misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies and include solicitation, reckless driving, petty theft, and other offenses. Felonies are much more serious and include burglary, arson, aggravated assault, homicide, and some drug and DUI cases.
These charges can have life-altering consequences. A Flagstaff attorney versed in criminal defense could ensure that your case is handled the right way and that you are treated fairly under the law.
Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-105(13) outlines the state’s definition of a dangerous crime. These crimes involve the display, discharge, or use of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument, or the intentional infliction of severe physical harm to another person. The penalties for dangerous offenses include longer prison term sentences and potential fines and fees.
The sentencing ranges for dangerous crimes may be increased based on certain factors regarding the circumstances of the crime. The most significant factors that cause an increased range relate to an individual’s prior criminal record and repetitive offenses. Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-704(F), repeat convictions for one or more dangerous felony offenses can significantly increase the penalties an accused person faces.
Additionally, the prosecution may also present other aggravated circumstances in an attempt to seek harsher penalties. It is critical to seek the assistance of an experienced lawyer in Flagstaff to help counter the prosecution’s arguments and ensure that all factors are weighed fairly in a criminal case.
An individual does not have to wait to seek legal representation until after an arrest or the filing of charges. It may be in one’s best interests to have a skilled attorney by their side while the police conduct an investigation or when accusations are initially made. Hiring legal counsel early on in the process can dramatically affect the outcome of a case.
A local criminal defense attorney may contact a prosecutor to share beneficial information and present an individual’s side of the story before charges are filed or any decisions are made. This can potentially result in less severe charges or no charges at all in some cases. Pre-charge representation can also be beneficial in seeking potential pre-indictment deals and allow an individual to get their affairs in order before an arrest.
All criminal accusations and charges should be taken seriously and defended to the utmost extent. Due to the potentially severe penalties that may result if you are convicted, you should make sure that you have the right representation to help fight for your rights.
A Flagstaff criminal defense lawyer has the experience to present your best defense and defend your way of life. Reach out to the legal team at Grand Canyon Law Group today to schedule a free consultation.