A misdemeanor conviction can cause problems now and in the future. If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, you have the option to contest the prosecution’s case. Partner with a Gilbert misdemeanors defense lawyer to learn about your legal options.
The team at Suzuki Law Offices brings decades of experience to your misdemeanor case. We can connect you with a Gilbert criminal defense lawyer who knows what it takes to dispute your charge. Schedule a free case consultation with us.
What You Need to Know About Misdemeanor Crimes
A misdemeanor is considered to be less serious than a felony. Regardless, a misdemeanor is a crime, and it is in your best interests to give it the attention it deserves. Otherwise, if you are convicted of a misdemeanor, the court could punish you to the fullest extent of the law.
Get legal help if you have been charged with shoplifting, a minor sex crime, or another misdemeanor. A Gilbert misdemeanors defense attorney understands the short- and long-term implications of a criminal conviction. They can prepare an argument that could lead to the dismissal of your charge or reduction in penalties.
Suzuki Law Offices offers exceptional legal services and support. We can provide details about what it means to plead “no contest” to a criminal charge and answer other legal questions relating to your misdemeanor case. Request a free case consultation with us.
Penalties You Can Receive If You Are Convicted of a Misdemeanor
Based on Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) § 13-802, you could be fined up to $2,500 for a misdemeanor conviction. Along with this, misdemeanor convictions carry a jail sentence of up to six months. In addition to these penalties, you may be subject to a maximum of three years of probation.
A misdemeanor conviction can appear on your criminal record. Thus, it can impact you if you want to land a job or buy a home. Your conviction may also impact your relationships with family and friends.
Rather than face the penalties that come with a conviction, work with a misdemeanors defense lawyer in Gilbert who prioritizes your case. Your lawyer can explain how you can be arrested for buying stolen goods or other reasons why someone could be charged with a misdemeanor. They can develop a legal strategy tailored to your case.
Gilbert Misdemeanor Defense Strategies That You Can Use to Fight Back Against Your Criminal Charge
A misdemeanors defense attorney in Gilbert wants you to take legal action. They are familiar with misdemeanor charges and can provide tips to help you avoid a conviction. As part of their efforts, your attorney may consider several legal strategies for your case, such as:
Gathering Evidence from a Wide Range of Sources
Documentary, physical, and digital evidence, testimonials, and other proof can make a world of difference relative to your case. Your lawyer can discuss what you can use as evidence in your criminal defense case. If you have plenty of proof, it becomes difficult for the prosecution to compel the court to rule in their favor.
Pursuing Pretrial Diversion
Your attorney could explore a pretrial diversion program in which you meet various court terms in exchange for not having to go to jail. This program may allow you to keep your freedom. Once you finish it, the court could remove your charge.
Negotiating a Plea Deal
The prosecution wants a conviction but has concerns about your case against them. At this point, they could propose a plea agreement. Your lawyer can describe what can happen if you accept a plea bargain and advise you on what to do with one.
Showing That You Were Acting in Self-Defense
You are arrested for a crime based on claims that you attacked someone. In this scenario, your lawyer may help you prove that you were acting in self-defense. To do so, they may use surveillance camera footage and other proof that shows you were trying to defend yourself or someone else.
Providing an Alibi
There are times when the police mistake one person for someone else, leading them to charge an individual for a crime that they did not commit. Unfortunately, this could happen to you. If it does, your attorney can share details about your alibi and explain that you were not present at the scene of a crime when it was reported.
Proving That You Were the Victim of Criminal Entrapment
Police officers could coerce you into engaging in criminal activity that you otherwise would not have done on your own. This represents entrapment. Your lawyer can provide an explanation of what criminal entrapment is and craft an argument that you were charged with a crime due to pressure from the police.
Arguing That Your Constitutional Rights Were Violated
The police can arrest you and start questioning you about a crime without reading your Miranda warning. This is illegal, as police officers must explain your Miranda rights so you know that you can remain silent if you choose to do so. If you did not receive your Miranda warning, the court could suppress evidence that the prosecution intended to use, which can weaken their case.
Highlighting How There Was a Lack of Intent
You could commit a crime without actually realizing that what you were doing was against the law. In your case, your attorney could argue that you had no intent to break the law and you thought that what you were doing was legal. This argument could prompt the court to drop your charges or lead the prosecution to open discussions regarding a plea deal.
The legal process can be overwhelming, and you may have no idea what to expect along the way. Your lawyer serves as your legal advocate and representative. They make sure that you are prepared for your trial and are in a great position to present an argument that resonates with the court.
Choose a Misdemeanors Defense Lawyer Who Can Guide You Through the Criminal Defense System
Suzuki Law Offices has a history of excellence and integrity. Our team is here to assist you with your misdemeanor case and can provide you with the legal help you need to succeed. Contact us for more information.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form