Tempe Criminal Defense Lawyer

Defending Against Criminal Charges in Arizona

Arrested? Facing criminal accusations? Contact MayesTelles PLLC today! Our law firm represents individuals in Tempe and elsewhere in the Phoenix metro area who need strong defense at their sides. The criminal lawyer you choose to handle your case could drastically impact the outcome.

Why Choose Us?

• Thousands of cases handled
• Nearly 200 years of experience
• Top 100 Trial Lawyers & AV Preeminent ratings
• 24/7 availability
• Insight from former prosecutors

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

Criminal Cases We Handle 

We handle a wide range of misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

• Drug crimes
• Sex offenses
• Theft crimes
• Domestic violence
• Weapon offenses
• Disorderly conduct

Some of our clients are first-time offenders, while others have navigated the justice system before. No matter your situation, our experienced team of criminal defense lawyers is prepared to serve you.

Arizona Criminal Justice System 

In Arizona, the criminal justice system follows established statutes, procedures, and institutions. Here’s a clear overview of the process:

1. Investigation: When someone reports a crime or authorities suspect criminal activity, law enforcement agencies, including the police or sheriff’s department, begin an investigation. They gather evidence, interview witnesses, and identify suspects.
2. Arrest: When the evidence supports formal charges, officers arrest the suspect and bring them before a judge for an initial appearance.
3. Initial Appearance and Bail: At this hearing, the judge explains the charges, reads the defendant their rights, and decides on bail or continued custody before trial.
4. Grand Jury or Preliminary Hearing: Arizona felony cases typically move through a preliminary hearing, where prosecutors present evidence of probable cause. If the judge finds probable cause, the case proceeds to trial.
5. Arraignment: The defendant is formally charged and enters a plea. A not guilty plea moves the case forward to trial.
6. Trial: During the trial, the prosecution and defense present evidence and arguments to a judge or jury. Defendants in Arizona usually have the right to a jury trial for criminal charges.
7. Verdict: The judge or jury delivers a verdict. If guilty, the judge determines the sentence.
8. Sentencing: The judge considers state law to impose penalties, which may include jail or prison time, fines, probation, or other consequences.
9. Appeals: Defendants who believe the court made a legal error can appeal to a higher court.

Throughout each step, both prosecution and defense have rights and responsibilities, and the law requires that every defendant receives fair treatment. The Arizona criminal justice system is designed to balance law enforcement with the protection of individual rights.

Common Defenses Against Criminal Charges

• Lack of Evidence: A central defense in many criminal cases is that the prosecution does not have sufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If key evidence is missing, unreliable, or improperly obtained, your attorney may argue that the case should be dismissed or result in an acquittal.
• Mistaken Identity: In cases such as theft, assault, or robbery, the accused may argue that they were misidentified. Eyewitness testimony can be flawed, and witnesses may confuse individuals, especially in high-stress situations. This defense seeks to show that the defendant was not the person who committed the alleged crime.
• Alibi: An alibi defense involves proving that you were somewhere else at the time the crime occurred. Strong alibi evidence, such as surveillance footage, receipts, or witness testimony, can cast reasonable doubt on your involvement in the crime.
• Self-Defense: If you are charged with a violent crime, you may argue that your actions were necessary to protect yourself from imminent harm. This defense requires showing that the force used was proportional to the threat and that there were no reasonable alternatives.
• Defense of Others: Similar to self-defense, this argument asserts that you acted to protect someone else from immediate danger. The same rules of proportionality and necessity apply.
• Entrapment: Entrapment often occurs when law enforcement induces someone to execute a crime they otherwise would not have committed. If you were persuaded or coerced into breaking the law by authorities, this defense can be raised to challenge the charges.
• Insanity or Mental Incapacity: In some cases, the accused may argue they lacked the mental capability to understand the nature of their actions or determine right from wrong. This defense requires a thorough psychiatric evaluation and is often used in severe criminal cases.
• Duress: Duress occurs when a person executes a crime because they were forced or threatened with immediate danger. This defense demonstrates that the crime was committed under coercion and without voluntary consent.
• Consent: For certain charges, such as sexual assault or property crimes, consent can be a viable defense. The key is showing that the alleged victim voluntarily agreed to the activity in question.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: If police had obtained evidence in violation of your constitutional rights, like executing a search without a warrant or probable cause, your attorney could possibly file a motion to suppress that evidence. Without this evidence, the prosecution’s case may weaken significantly.

Contact Our Criminal Defense Lawyer in Tempe Today

MayesTelles PLLC is a criminal defense law firm dedicated to justice for the accused. We believe every person deserves strong representation and an advocate they can trust. Our attorneys offer nearly 200 years of combined experience and unique insight from former prosecutors. We understand the details of the Arizona legal system and work to secure fair treatment for those we represent.

Contact MayesTelles PLLC today to get started with our Tempe criminal defense attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions Criminal Defense Cases

What Should I Do If I Am Arrested in Tempe?

The first step is to remain calm and remember your rights. Never resisting arrest is crucial, as this can lead to additional charges. The right to remain silent is fundamental; anything said can be used against you in court. When approached by law enforcement, only provide identification details and comply without volunteering additional information. Ask for a criminal defense attorney immediately upon arrest and refrain from self-representation during questioning.

Upon release, whether on bail or recognizance, promptly contact a criminal defense lawyer. Engaging with a skilled lawyer ensures proper representation during initial court appearances and beyond. At MayesTelles PLLC, our attorneys offer immediate consultation to review your case, explain your rights in detail, and formulate a preliminary strategy. Understanding the legal process early helps navigate the complex Arizona justice system effectively without unnecessary implications or missteps.

What Are Commonly Faced Criminal Charges in Tempe?

With its diverse community and thriving business environment, Tempe sees various criminal charges. Common offenses include DUI, drug-related crimes, and theft, often influenced by Tempe’s dynamic lifestyle and demographic. DUI is among the most frequent charges due to extensive enforcement along significant roadways and checkpoints near entertainment hubs.

Drug charges, from possession to distribution, reflect broader state-level enforcement initiatives. Vehicular crimes, particularly related to disorderly conduct and theft offenses, are also prominent, given the city’s high traffic volume. Our criminal defense attorneys are well-versed in defending against these charges, effectively navigating local statutes with strategies tailored to address such prevalent issues within Tempe’s jurisdiction.

Can I Be Tried for a Felony and a Misdemeanor Simultaneously?

Yes, it's possible to face both felony and misdemeanor charges arising from the same incident or related conduct. It largely depends on the nature of the alleged offenses and their severity. Felonies are serious crimes, with potential penalties including lengthy imprisonment and substantial fines, while misdemeanors carry lighter sentences.

When accused of concurrent charges, it’s imperative to have a seasoned criminal defense attorney who can strategically handle the multifaceted aspects of your defense. At MayesTelles PLLC, we analyze all elements of your case to develop a comprehensive defense plan. Understanding the interplay between different charges ensures no aspect of your case is overlooked, allowing for a robust challenge against felony and misdemeanor allegations.