Some of the most serious types of crimes you can be accused of committing are those that are violent in nature. When someone else is seriously injured or killed, prosecutors are ready to do whatever it takes to bring those responsible to justice. However, that does not mean they always get it right.
You have the right to defend yourself, and a leading Gilbert violent crimes lawyer from Suzuki Law Offices may be able to help you protect your freedom. Our team is made up of nine former prosecutors, so we know how the district attorney is likely to approach your case.
Connect with a dedicated Gilbert criminal defense lawyer from our firm and schedule a confidential consultation to discuss how the criminal justice system unfolds and which defenses are most likely to lead to an acquittal or other favorable outcome.
What to Do if You Are Under Investigation for a Violent Crime
If you learn that you are under investigation for a violent crime, it is crucial that you take action as soon as possible. You do not want to wait until you are taken into police custody or a warrant for your arrest has been issued.
Here are some of the most important steps you should take if you are being questioned by police, investigated, or have been charged criminally:
Seek Legal Advice
Hiring a Gilbert violent crimes attorney is going to be in your best interest. With charges this severe, the penalties will be harsh. You are going to want a legal representative by your side as law enforcement officials attempt to question you and build their case against you.
With Suzuki Law Offices handling your violent crimes defense strategy, you can trust that your rights will be protected. Our team can challenge unlawfully obtained evidence and take action if law enforcement or prosecutorial misconduct occurs.
We will keep the big picture in mind when determining which defense strategies are most likely to secure a dismissal or acquittal.
Do Not Talk to the Police
You may already be in police custody when you discover you are being investigated for a violent crime. You are under no legal obligation to provide the police with any information other than your name and identifying information. You can politely decline to answer their questions until your legal representative is present.
You should never attempt to clear things up on your own. Anything you say to the police can and will be used against you as described by your Miranda Rights, which the police should have informed you of at the time of your arrest. Do not help law enforcement officials by saying anything that could be misinterpreted or misconstrued.
Be Cautious with Communication
You do not only need to be careful what you say to the police. The prosecutor could call anyone to testify against you at trial.
For this reason, you should avoid discussing anything involving the violent crime investigation or charges against you with anyone other than your Gilbert armed robbery defense lawyer, including your family and friends.
Most Violent Crimes are Felonies in Arizona
Violent crimes in Arizona include any type of offense that involves the threat or use of force against an alleged victim. For this reason, most violent crimes are considered felonies.
You may find yourself in need of a Gilbert sex crimes lawyer or other violent crimes attorney if you have been accused of one or more of the following offenses:
- Arson under ARS § 13–1703 – Arson charges may apply whether the structure is occupied or unoccupied.
- Assault under ARS § 13–1203 – This charge can also include aggravated assault if there is the threat or use of a deadly weapon or physical injury.
- Dangerous crimes against children (DCAC) under ARS § 13–705 – A crime can be designated a DCAC if the child in question is under the age of 15.
- Unlawful discharge of a firearm under ARS § 13–3107 – You could also have your firearm rights taken away if you are convicted of this offense.
- Kidnapping under ARS § 13–1304 – These charges may apply if you are accused of abducting or confining someone against their will.
- Homicide, defined under ARS § 13–1101 – Homicide charges can include negligent homicide under ARS § 13-1102, manslaughter under ARS § 13-1103, murder in the second degree or first degree under ARS § 13-1104 and ARS § 13-1105 respectively, with premeditation determining the extent of the charges against you.
- Robbery under ARS § 13–1902 – You can also be charged with armed robbery if you committed a robbery with the threat or use of a weapon under ARS § 13-1904.
- Sexual assault under ARS § 13–1406 – Multiple offenses could be considered sexual assault, including the continuous sexual abuse of a child under ARS § 13-1417, rape, or statutory rape under ARS § 13-1405.
No matter what type of violent crime you have been accused of, the consequences are likely to be serious. The type of crime and the presence of aggravating or mitigating circumstances will determine the extent of your penalties.
For example, you could be facing several years in prison if convicted of sexual assault or arson, but you could be looking at life in prison without the possibility of parole if you are convicted of first-degree murder.
What to Expect if You Are Released on Bail
Not all those accused of violent crimes will be granted bail. If the judge determines you are not a flight risk or threat to society, bail is more likely to be granted. If released on bail, you should expect:
- To follow the conditions of bail as imposed by the court, which might include electronic monitoring.
- If you remain in compliance with all conditions, your bail or bond will be returned at the end of your case.
- Consequences to apply if you fail to appear in court.
Several factors will determine how much your bail could be. Your criminal history, community ties, and the severity of your charges will all have an impact on your bail amount. Expect bail to be higher for violent crimes than for nonviolent crimes.
Consult a Respected Violent Crimes Lawyer in Gilbert for Help Today
When you are charged criminally, you may be able to retain a public defense lawyer to take on your case. However, if you have the means to work with a private violent crimes attorney in Gilbert, it may be in your best interest to do so. Public defenders simply do not have the time, energy, or resources to devote to their clients when they are so overworked.
Trust your defense strategy to our reputable criminal defenders from Suzuki Law Offices. Our team will review the charges against you and the circumstances of your case to determine which defense strategy is most viable.
When you are ready to face the criminal charges against you, do not hesitate to contact our office by phone or through our secured contact form to schedule your confidential consultation as soon as today.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form