A misdemeanor conviction can impact you in many ways. In addition to jail time, a fine, and other penalties, your conviction could keep you from living your life the way you want. A Florence misdemeanors defense lawyer can contest your charge before it leads to a conviction.
Suzuki Law Offices has decades of legal experience on staff. We provide exceptional legal service to those who have been charged with misdemeanors in Arizona. Discuss your misdemeanor case with a Florence criminal defense lawyer.
What to Do if You Have Been Charged with a Misdemeanor
Hire a Florence misdemeanors defense attorney after you have been charged. Your lawyer can explain the difference between felonies and misdemeanors. They will look for ways to dispute your charge.
Your lawyer considers your charge and how the prosecution will present their case against you. They understand the dangers of reckless driving and other misdemeanor crimes. They could build an argument that compels the court to dismiss your case.
Suzuki Law Offices takes your misdemeanor offense seriously. We can learn why you were arrested, and answer frequently asked questions and others relating to your charge and similar legal topics. Schedule a free case consultation with us.
The Penalties You Could Face If You Are Convicted of a Misdemeanor
Arizona has classes of misdemeanors, with penalties varying based on the severity of the crime. A misdemeanors defense lawyer in Florence can teach you about these penalties and how they apply to your case. Penalties for misdemeanors include:
- Up to 180 days in jail
- A fine of up to $2,500
- Unsupervised probation for up to three years
- Restitution
- Community service
- Installation of a certified ignition interlock device (CIID) in your car
Who you hire to represent you in your misdemeanor case matters. For example, a Florence theft crimes lawyer could help you fight back against a shoplifting charge. They could look for evidence and develop a legal strategy to disprove the prosecution’s case.
Florence Misdemeanors Defense Legal Strategies to Consider
A misdemeanors defense attorney in Florence tailors your legal strategy to your case. They are familiar with the legal process and know what to do to show the court that a conviction is not warranted. Your attorney may review several possible legal defenses with you, such as:
Showing That You Were Somewhere Else When a Crime Took Place
You have an alibi, as you were not at the location where a crime was committed. To prove this point, your attorney could present surveillance camera footage and other evidence that shows the crime as it was happening. This proof could make it clear to the court that you were not present at the time the offense occurred.
You Committed a Crime But Did Not Intend to Do So
The court accounts for intent as it decides whether to punish someone for a misdemeanor. For instance, you are charged with theft after someone accuses you of taking an item from them without their permission. You may have told this individual about plans to borrow this item and have documentation to validate this point, which could result in the dismissal of your case.
You Were Acting in Self-Defense
It is reasonable to defend yourself and others if you are left with no other recourse. There are times when self-defense becomes the only option to ensure you and others are safe. Your lawyer could argue that you acted in self-defense based on the circumstances of your situation, and this strategy could prompt the court to provide you with a favorable ruling.
You Were Charged with a Crime That You Did Not Commit
Police officers could arrest you and charge you for a crime under the assumption that you are someone else. Your lawyer can resolve a case of mistaken identity. They can share proof that shows another party committed a crime, and you were charged by mistake.
Your Constitutional Rights Were Violated
The police must provide you with a Miranda warning in the time between when you are arrested and questioned about a crime. You may have never received this warning and were unaware that you had the right to remain silent. In this case, your attorney could argue that certain evidence should be suppressed, which could damage the prosecution’s argument.
The Prosecution Does Not Have Enough Evidence to Convict You
It is not enough for a prosecutor to argue that you should be found guilty of a crime. The prosecution must make the court believe beyond a reasonable doubt that you have committed a crime and should be punished for it. Your attorney could argue that the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence and raises doubts about their proof to protect you against a conviction.
Your legal strategy can make or break your case. If you have a strong argument, the prosecution may have concerns about whether they can convict you. These concerns may allow you to receive a plea deal that lines up with your expectations.
What to Expect if You Receive a Plea Bargain
Your lawyer and the prosecution could negotiate a plea agreement. By accepting this deal, you agree to a lesser charge than the one you originally received. The pact allows the prosecutor to convict you, and you could avoid a jail sentence and other harsh penalties.
If you get a plea agreement, review the proposal with your attorney. You can ask your lawyer questions about the offer and weigh the proposal’s pros and cons with them. If you are satisfied with an offer, you can approve it and move past your case.
A plea deal is not an option in every criminal case. If your case requires a trial, your lawyer helps you get ready for your court proceedings. That way, you will know what can happen when you present your case in court.
Get Legal Help with Your Misdemeanor Case
Suzuki Law Offices is an Arizona criminal defense law firm with a history of excellence and integrity in misdemeanor cases and many others.
We are available to assist you with your criminal case. Request a free case consultation with us.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form