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Mesa Criminal Defense Attorney

Defending Against Criminal Charges in Arizona

MayesTelles PLLC is one of the premier criminal defense law firms in the greater Phoenix area. If you live in Mesa or you were arrested in Mesa, our firm is here for you. Acting quickly after a criminal arrest is essential to protect your rights, so contact our firm today.

Why Choose Us?

  • We have handled thousands of cases
  • We have nearly 200 years of collective experience
  • We have attorneys listed in the Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • We have the insight of former prosecutors on our team
  • We are available to you 24/7

Our legal team is invested in your future. We provide high-quality defense representation at a price you can afford. When you reach out to MayesTelles PLLC, you work with skilled attorneys led by J. Blake Mayes and David Telles, who bring years of courtroom experience to your case.

Call MayesTelles PLLC today at (602) 428-7104 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our criminal defense attorney in Mesa.

Types of Criminal Cases We Handle

In Arizona, crimes are actions that violate the state's laws, whether they are misdemeanors or felonies. Common types of crimes our Mesa firm handles include:

  • Violent Crimes: Offenses such as assault, battery, homicide, robbery, and domestic violence.
  • Property Crimes: These involve offenses against property, such as theft, burglary, shoplifting, vandalism, and arson.
  • Drug Crimes: These encompass offenses related to the possession, distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking of illegal drugs or controlled substances.
  • DUI (Driving Under the Influence): Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs is considered a serious offense in Arizona, especially if it leads to accidents or injuries.
  • White-Collar Crimes: Financial deception or fraud, such as embezzlement, money laundering, identity theft, and various scams.
  • Sex Crimes: Offenses such as rape, sexual assault, sexual abuse, and indecent exposure.
  • Traffic Offenses: Beyond DUI, traffic offenses can range from speeding and reckless driving to hit-and-run accidents and vehicular manslaughter.
  • Weapons Offenses: Possessing, using, or trafficking illegal firearms or other weapons can lead to serious criminal charges.
  • Domestic Violence: Any form of abuse or violence committed within a domestic relationship falls under this category.
  • Juvenile Crimes: Offenses committed by minors, ranging from petty theft to more serious crimes like assault or drug-related offenses.

What are the Penalties For Conviction in Arizona?

The potential penalties for a conviction in Arizona vary depending on the severity of the crime, any prior criminal history of the offender, and other circumstances surrounding the case. Here's a general overview of the potential penalties:

  • Fines: Fines are a standard penalty for many offenses in Arizona. The acceptable amount can vary widely depending on the nature of the crime and other factors.
  • Probation: Instead of or in addition to jail time, a judge may impose probation. During probation, the offender must comply with specific conditions set by the court, such as regular check-ins with a probation officer, attending counseling or rehabilitation programs, and refraining from further criminal activity.
  • Jail or Prison Time: For more serious offenses, the court may impose a sentence of incarceration. Jail time is typically for misdemeanor offenses and can range from a few days to several months, while prison sentences are for felony offenses ranging from a year to life imprisonment or even the death penalty for the most serious crimes.
  • Restitution: In cases where the victim suffered financial losses due to the crime, the court may order the offender to pay restitution to compensate the victim for their losses. This can include reimbursing for medical expenses, property damage, or other financial losses from the crime.
  • Community Service: In some cases, the court may order the offender to perform community service as part of their sentence. This could involve working a certain number of hours at a nonprofit organization or performing other community service work.
  • Loss of Rights: A conviction for certain offenses may result in the loss of certain rights, such as the right to possess firearms, the right to vote, or the right to hold specific professional licenses.
  • Driver's License Suspension: The court may suspend or revoke the offender's driver's license for certain offenses, particularly those related to DUI or traffic violations.

Common Defenses Against Criminal Charges

Common defenses may include:

Self-Defense or Defense of Others

Arizona law allows individuals to use reasonable physical force to protect themselves or others from imminent harm. To use this defense successfully, a defendant must show that they were not the aggressor, had a legitimate fear of harm, and used force proportional to the threat.

Alibi

An alibi defense argues that the defendant was somewhere else when the crime occurred. Evidence, such as witness testimony or surveillance footage, can support this claim, demonstrating that it was impossible for the defendant to have committed the alleged offense.

Mistake of Fact

This defense applies when a defendant acts under a false belief about a fact. For example, taking property believed to be their own. If the mistake negates the intent required for the crime, it can be a valid defense.

Lack of Intent

Many criminal offenses require proof that the defendant acted with a specific intent. If a defendant can show they lacked the necessary intent—such as in cases of accidental harm—they may avoid conviction.

Constitutional Violations

If law enforcement violates constitutional rights, such as failing to provide Miranda warnings, statements or evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court. This can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case.

Entrapment

Entrapment happens when law enforcement induces a person to execute a crime they would not have otherwise executed. If proven, this defense can lead to charges being reduced or dropped.

Insanity

The insanity defense in Arizona considers whether a defendant understood the nature of their act or knew it was wrong at the time of the offense. This defense is difficult to prove and rarely successful.

False Allegations

In some cases, individuals could be falsely accused due to misunderstandings or personal motives. Challenging the accuser's credibility and presenting conflicting evidence can be an effective strategy.

Meet Our Experienced Attorneys

Attorneys J. Blake Mayes and David Telles lead MayesTelles PLLC and bring AV Preeminent™, Top 100 Trial Lawyers honors, and valuable insight from their years as former prosecutors. Our team is equipped to handle even complex criminal charges in Arizona.

We have a thorough understanding of the Arizona Revised Statutes and the diverse procedures of Mesa Municipal Court and Maricopa County Superior Court. This allows us to adapt our defense strategies to the needs of each venue and each case.

Having worked on a broad spectrum of criminal defense cases in Mesa and surrounding areas, our attorneys keep current with changes in Arizona state law and local practices. We communicate with clients openly at every phase, so you know what to expect and never feel left out of the loop. Our commitment is to guide you through the legal process with practical strategies and informed decisions, every step of the way.

Contact Our Criminal Defense Lawyer in Mesa Today

The Mesa criminal defense lawyers at MayesTelles PLLC are available around the clock. Contact us if you or a loved one has been arrested at any time of day or night. We routinely guide clients on the immediate actions to take after an arrest in Mesa, including how to prepare for an initial court appearance and what documents to have ready. Our phones are always staffed, so you never face these early steps alone. We respond quickly, providing direction rooted in Arizona’s laws as well as local courtroom procedures.

If your case involves the Mesa Police Department or Maricopa County prosecutors, we give you information about local booking, release, or assignment to the right court. Our familiarity with these processes helps you approach the first stages of your case with confidence and clarity. We can explain your legal rights and options in a free case review, so contact us today to learn more about how we can help with your defense!

Contact MayesTelles PLLC today to get started with our Mesa criminal defense lawyer.

FAQs on Criminal Defense

What Should I Do Immediately After Being Arrested?

Immediately upon arrest, you must exercise your right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer. This is crucial because anything you say can and will be used against you in court. The initial interaction with authorities can significantly impact your situation, so it is essential to avoid self-incrimination. Upon arrest, the first step should be contacting a criminal defense attorney who can guide you through the legal process. MayesTelles PLLC offers 24/7 access to experienced attorneys who can help explain your rights and options.

How Does the Legal Process Work?

The legal process in Mesa begins with the arrest and includes several key stages, such as arraignment, pre-trial hearings, and possibly a trial. During arraignment, charges are formally presented, and pleas are entered. Pre-trial hearings can involve motions to dismiss or reduce charges, discovery disputes, and plea bargain negotiations. Understanding each step of this process is critical, and having knowledgeable defense on your side ensures that your rights are protected and every viable defense tactic is explored. The team at MayesTelles PLLC is committed to guiding you through each phase, ensuring you are fully informed and prepared throughout the legal proceedings.

Can I Be Charged with a Crime Even if I Wasn't Present at the Scene?

Yes, it is possible to be charged with a crime in Mesa even if you were not physically present at the scene. Arizona law allows for charges based on accomplice liability or conspiracy, meaning you may be held accountable if you aided, abetted, or conspired with others in committing a crime. These scenarios underline the importance of mounting a strong defense that challenges the prosecution's evidence and interpretations. Seeking prompt legal advice from MayesTelles PLLC can provide clarity and strategic direction in building a defense against such charges.

What Are My Rights During a Police Search?

In Mesa, as in the rest of Arizona, individuals have constitutional rights protecting them from unreasonable searches and seizures. Police must have probable cause or a valid search warrant to scour you or your property. If you believe your rights have been violated during a search, it is imperative to contact a defense lawyer immediately. They can examine the circumstances surrounding the search and determine if your rights were infringed upon, potentially excluding any unlawfully obtained evidence from being used in court.

We've Won Thousands of Cases

  • Charges Reduced to Reckless Driving

    Client R.C. was stopped by Mesa Police for a civil traffic violation and later charged with DUI, Extreme DUI, and Super Extreme DUI in a justice court. During the course of their representation, MayesTelles attorneys discovered important inconsistencies in the police reports. When we presented these issues to the State, the prosecutor’s office agreed to drop all DUI charges.

  • Fatal Commercial Vehicle Accident

    MayesTelles Client A.F. and her husband tragically lost their unborn child as a result of the negligence of an individual operating a commercial vehicle in Yuma, Arizona. After substantial investigation including accident reconstruction and filing a lawsuit, the insurance company paid out the policy limits of $1,000,000.00.

  • 4 Counts of Aggravated DUI Dismissed

    Client M.W. was charged with 4 counts of Aggravated DUI in the Maricopa County Superior Court in July 2016 for allegedly riding a motorized bicycle under the influence. The attorneys at MayesTelles demanded that the State include certain materials in their presentation to the grand jury, resulting in the grand jury refusing to indict and the case being dismissed.

  • Client Charged with DUI

    Client, GS, charged with DUI - sentence was reduced to reckless driving.

  • Client Facing Assault Felony

    M.L. was charged with 1 count of Aggravated Assault, a class 3 dangerous felony. She plead guilty to Aggravated Assault, a class 6 undesignated felony, with a stipulation to 3 months of initial jail. She received credit for 32 days and the rest of the jail time was deferred. She was placed on 3 years of supervised probation. She has the opportunity to designate the offense a misdemeanor after successfully completing probation. Location: Maricopa County Superior Court

  • Client Charged with DUI

    Our client, A.R, was charged with 1 count of DUI and 1 count of Failure to Control Speed to Avoid a Collision. During extensive pre-trial investigation, it was discovered that the police made many errors in how they handled the case. We were able to get the client's charges reduced to reckless driving. Location: Glendale City Court

  • Client Charged with Four Felony Counts

    Our client, Ms. D., was charged with two counts of forgery - a class 4 Felony as well as theft - a class 2 Felony and also fraudulent schemes and artifices - a class 2 Felony. We were able to get her conviction reduced to a class 6 undesignated felony with the opportunity to reduce further to a misdemeanor. Location: Maricopa County Superior Court

  • 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 Charged with Shoplifting

    Our client, Ms. H., was charged with shoplifting - a class 1 misdemeanor. We were able to get her conviction set aside. Location: Phoenix Municipal Court

  • Client Faced 5 Felony Sex Offenses

    Our client, Mr. C., was charged with five counts of felony sex offenses, including two counts of Sex Conduct with a Minor and three counts of Molestation of a Child. We were able to get the case dismissed upon a successful Motion to Dismiss. Location: Maricopa County Superior Court

  • Client Charged with Disorderly Conduct

    Our client, K.F., was charged with Disorderly Conduct, a class 1 misdemeanor. We were able to get this client's case dismissed. Location: Tempe Municipal 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.

  • Multiple Felony Theft Offenses

    Our client, Mr. C., was charged with Theft of Means of Transportation (Class 3 Felony) and Trafficking in Stolen Property (Class 3 Felony). Both class 3 felonies have a possible sentencing range of 2 - 8.75 years in prison. We were able to get our client's charge reduced to a Class 1 Misdemeanor with no jail time. 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

Start with a Free Case Evaluation
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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