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Violent Crimes

Phoenix Violent Crime Attorney

Get Tough Defense from Top 100 Lawyers

Have you been arrested for committing a violent crime? Our Phoenix defense lawyers may be able to help you. MayesTelles PLLC is a criminal defense firm that represents clients throughout the Phoenix Metro area. We have handled thousands of cases and have the experience of former prosecutors on our team.

At MayesTelles, our dedicated team of legal professionals is committed to providing robust defense strategies for individuals facing allegations of violent crimes. Our Phoenix violent crime lawyers understand the complexity and severity of these charges and stands ready to protect the rights and interests of our clients at every stage of the legal process.

For tough defense that you can rely on in your time of need, call MayesTelles!

What is Considered a "Dangerous Offense" in Arizona?

Arizona classifies some criminal offenses as "dangerous." According to the Arizona Revised Statutes, a dangerous offense is "an offense involving discharge, use or threatening exhibition of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument or the intentional or knowing infliction of serious physical injury on another person." Many of the violent crime cases we handle are offenses classified as "dangerous."

Common Types of Violent Crimes

Violent and serious crimes listed out in A.R.S. 13- 706 are subject to aggravated sentences.

MayesTelles PLLC handles a variety of different violent crimes, including:

  • Assault: This involves intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing injury to another person or placing them in reasonable apprehension of imminent physical injury.
  • Aggravated Assault: It encompasses more serious forms of assault that involve the use of a deadly weapon or result in severe bodily harm, disfigurement, or impairment.
  • Domestic Violence: Acts of violence or abuse committed against a spouse, former spouse, romantic partner, co-parent, or household member fall under this category.
  • Homicide: This includes murder (intentionally causing someone's death), manslaughter (causing death without intent), and negligent homicide (causing death through negligence).
  • Robbery: It involves taking someone else's property by force, threat, or intimidation.
  • Sex Offenses: Any non-consensual sexual contact or intercourse falls under this category, including rape, child molestation, and other forms of sexual violence.
  • Armed Robbery / Burglary: The use of a weapon or threat of violence while committing robbery or burglary.
  • Weapons Offenses: A range of illegal actions related to the possession, use, sale, or trafficking of firearms or other weapons.

Arizona Penalties for Violent Crimes

In Arizona, penalties for violent crimes vary based on the severity of the offense, the specific circumstances, the defendant's criminal history, and other factors. Here's an overview of potential penalties for some common violent crimes:

Assault

  • Simple assault (Class 1 misdemeanor): Up to 6 months in jail, fines up to $2,500.
  • Aggravated assault (ranging from Class 2 to Class 6 felonies): Penalties can include prison sentences from several years to more than a decade, with fines up to $150,000.

Domestic Violence

Penalties can range from misdemeanor to felony charges, depending on the severity of the crime. Punishments include jail time, fines, mandatory counseling, and restraining orders. It carries the same penalties as an assault charge, but may lead to more extreme consequences pertaining to child custody and visitation issues.

Homicide

  • Murder (ranging from second-degree to first-degree): Penalties include lengthy prison sentences, life imprisonment, or the death penalty.
  • Manslaughter (class 2 felony): Penalties can involve 7 years of imprisonment for a first offense up to 35 years in prison for an individual with 2 prior dangerous felony convictions.

Robbery

  • Robbery (Class 4 felony): Penalties include imprisonment up to 3.75 years, fines up to $150,000.
  • Aggravated robbery (Class 3 felony or higher): Penalties escalate to lengthier prison terms and higher fines.

Sexual Assault

Sexual assault charges vary in severity and can lead to penalties ranging from probation and counseling to significant prison time (range between 5.25 years and up to a maximum of life in prison), especially in cases of aggravated sexual assault.

Common Violent Crime Defense Strategies in AZ

Defending against violent crime charges in Arizona often requires a comprehensive approach tailored to the specific circumstances of the case. Some defense strategies employed may include:

Self-Defense or Defense of Others: If the accused acted in self-defense or to protect others from imminent harm, it can be a valid defense. The defense must demonstrate that the use of force was reasonable given the situation.

Lack of Intent: For certain violent crimes like assault or homicide, proving that the accused did not have the intent to commit the crime can be a viable defense strategy.

Mistaken Identity: In cases where identification is a key issue, showing that the accused was wrongly identified as the perpetrator can be a strong defense.

Alibi: Providing evidence that the accused was somewhere else at the time the crime occurred can serve as an alibi defense.

Police Misconduct or Violation of Rights: Challenging evidence obtained unlawfully or through police misconduct, such as an illegal search or seizure, can lead to the exclusion of that evidence from trial.

Insufficient Evidence: If the prosecution fails to present enough credible evidence to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, this can lead to acquittal.

Voluntary Intoxication: In certain cases, if the accused was intoxicated to the extent that they were unable to form the requisite intent for the crime, this might serve as a defense.

False Accusations or Fabricated Evidence: If it can be demonstrated that the allegations were fabricated or that the evidence was tampered with or falsely presented, it can help the defense's case.

Reduction of Charges: Negotiating with the prosecution to reduce the charges or pursue alternative sentencing options can be a strategy to mitigate potential penalties.

Mitigating Circumstances: Highlighting mitigating factors such as mental illness, duress, or other circumstances that might have influenced the accused's actions can be used in defense.

Each case is unique, and the most effective defense strategy depends on the specific details and evidence involved. Our team of skilled Phoenix violent crime defense attorneys will assess the case thoroughly to determine the most appropriate defense approach to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

Reasons to Choose MayesTelles for Your Defense

A violent crime conviction can seriously alter your future, especially if you have prior offenses. Combat your charges with the help of a Phoenix violent crime attorney at our firm. When your freedom is on the line, you cannot afford to retain mediocre counsel or a public defender. Choose MayesTelles PLLC because:

  • We have handled thousands of cases
  • We are "Top 100 Trial Lawyers" rated
  • We have the insight of former prosecutors on our team
  • We have nearly 200 years of experience

We are available 24/7 to take your calls, so get in touch with us today to discuss your charges, and we can inform you of your legal rights and options. Call MayesTelles today!

We've Won Thousands of Cases

  • Client Charged with Trespass & Assault

    Our client, T.C., was charged in Maricopa County Superior Court on July 8, 2015 with 1 count of Criminal Trespass, a class 6 felony, and 1 count Assault, a class 2 Misdemeanor. On September 9, 2015, after an 8-day jury trial, our client was found not guilty on both charges. Location: Maricopa County Superior Court

  • Client Facing Multiple Criminal Charges

    Our client, L.S., was charged on October 20, 2014 in Mesa for an assault, disorderly conduct, and criminal damage. MayesTelles PLLC was able to get those charges dismissed.

  • Client Facing Multiple Domestic Violence Offenses

    Our client, Ms. C., was facing charges of assault / domestic violence (class 1 misdemeanor), disorderly conduct / domestic violence (class 1 misdemeanor), and criminal damage / domestic violence (class 1 misdemeanor). We were able to get our client's case dismissed. Location: Mesa Municipal Court

  • Charged with Assault & Failure to Appear

    Our client, L.S., was charged in Phoenix on December 27, 2014 for assault and failure to appear. After completing diversion, our client's case was dismissed.

  • Domestic Assault & Failure to Appear Charges

    Our client, Ms. C., was facing an assault / domestic violence offense (class 1 misdemeanor) and a failure to appear charge (class 1 misdemeanor). We were able to get our client's case dismissed. Location: Phoenix Municipal Court

  • Client Faced Multiple Abuse Charges

    Our client, E.A., faced two counts of Class 4 felony child abuse and one count of failure to report neglect of a minor (a class 6 felony). We were able to get the case dismissed. Location: Maricopa County Superior court

Why Choose MayesTelles PLLC?

  • Nearly 200 Years of Combined Experience
  • Thousands of Cases Successfully Handled
  • Voted Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • Available to Our Clients 24/7
  • Former Prosecutors & Law Enforcement
  • AV Preeminent Rated Attorneys

Contact Us Today

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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

Hear From Past Clients We've Helped
    "I would recommend them 1,000%"
    The entire staff was so kind and nobody treated me any different because of my past! There are no words I can give you to thank you for what your company has done for me!! Thank you so much!
    - K.H.
    "Only Pick MayesTelles"
    I sure hope to never get in trouble again but when I did I put my money and trust in MayesTelles. Not only do they listen, they CARE! As if it was them in my shoes! They don't judge you or make you feel uncomfortable and you can sit back and relax.
    - L. M.
    "Put My Mind at Ease"
    I never thought I would be someone needing a criminal lawyer. Choosing Mayes Telles was a great choice which has put my mind at ease. Melanie Laboy has been super responsive to my case and kept me informed during this entire process.
    - E.W.
    "I had a great experience and would definitely recommend David Lish."
    Got myself in some trouble and David Lish pulled me right out. He was really good at making me feel comfortable and helping me understand exactly what was going on with my case. David made my Felony go down to a misdemeanor and allowed me to come home to N
    - Elizabeth
    "Zach Thornley the greatest criminal lawyer at Mayes Telles"
    Zach turned hell to heaven (not guilty) for me and I will never say enough thank you for the fantastic job he did!!!!! Zach thank you
    - SG
    "The Best Lawyer in My Experience"
    David Telles is the best lawyer in my experience. It was a pretty big case, but he handled very professionally. My case was dismissed, I was very happy with the result and I am really thanks to David Telles.
    - Hanna
    "Professional, fair, and successful results for our clients."
    We are often asked what law firm do we see offers excellent advice and successful results for our clients and we tell them Mayes Telles. Blake Mayes, David Telles and Dean Turnbow have had fantastic communication with our office and our clients can't speak
    - Sanctuary Bail Bonds
    "Professional, fair, and successful results for our clients."
    We are often asked what law firm do we see offers excellent advice and successful results for our clients and we tell them Mayes Telles. Blake Mayes, David Telles and Dean Turnbow have had fantastic communication with our office...
    - Sanctuary Bail Bonds