A misdemeanor charge may seem minor, but it can affect you for a long time. You have the option to contest your charge. Get started by hiring a Glendale misdemeanors defense lawyer who can explain your legal options in depth.
Suzuki Law Offices has former prosecutors with years of experience on staff. Give us the opportunity to help you with your misdemeanor case. Request a free consultation with a Glendale criminal defense lawyer.
What You Need to Know About Misdemeanors
A misdemeanor is classified as a minor wrongdoing. There are three classes of misdemeanors, with class 3 considered the least serious. The penalties you face for a misdemeanor vary based on the charge and can include:
- Jail time
- A fine
- Probation
Suzuki Law Offices can help you build an argument to dispute the charge against you. We can determine what evidence you can use in your criminal defense case and develop your legal strategy accordingly. Discuss your case with a Glendale misdemeanors defense attorney.
Why You Should Get Legal Representation If You Are Charged with a Misdemeanor
How you treat your misdemeanor charge can impact your future. Per Arizona Revised Statutes §13-707, you could receive a jail sentence of up to six months if you are convicted of a misdemeanor. With a misdemeanors defense lawyer in Glendale on your side, you could avoid these and other penalties that come with a conviction.
Your attorney can provide insights into what to expect after day one of being arrested in Arizona. They protect your legal rights and advocate for your best interests. In doing so, they could help you get the penalties associated with your charge reduced or show the court that you should not be found guilty.
The legal process can be overwhelming, and an attorney guides you every step of the way. They can collect evidence and prepare a body of proof to support your case. If your lawyer succeeds, you can move forward from your charge with few or no long-term consequences.
Why You May Need Glendale Misdemeanors Defense Legal Representation
A misdemeanors defense attorney in Glendale can describe what is criminal entrapment and other legal topics that may apply to your case. They want you to make informed decisions as your case moves forward. Your lawyer can help you defend against many types of misdemeanors, including:
Driving Offense
You are arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), reckless driving, or any other driving offense. At this point, ask a criminal defense attorney for help. A Glendale road rage defense lawyer or other legal representation could help you disprove the prosecution’s argument against you.
Property Crime
A retailer claims you committed shoplifting, or another party accuses you of property theft. In these situations and similar ones, an attorney can help. A Glendale theft crimes lawyer or another attorney with relevant experience relevant to your case can prepare an argument that makes it tough for the prosecution to convict you of a property crime.
Sex Crime
Prostitution and indecent exposure are two sex misdemeanor crimes. If you do nothing after being charged with a sex crime, you could receive jail time and other penalties. Alternatively, a Glendale sex crimes lawyer can review the facts of your case and look for ways to argue against the prosecution on your behalf.
A criminal charge can feel like the end of the world, but legal help is available. Partner with an attorney who knows how to handle misdemeanor crime cases. Your lawyer will work diligently to help you achieve your desired case result.
How to Dispute a Misdemeanor Charge
Every criminal case is different, and your attorney tailors your legal strategy to your charge. Over the course of your litigation, your lawyer gathers as much information from you as they can. This helps your attorney prepare a legal strategy, which may highlight any of the following points:
You Were Acting in Self-Defense
Unfortunately, there are times when someone has to act in self-defense to protect themselves and others from harm. Your lawyer could prove that you were doing what was necessary to keep yourself and others safe. They may share surveillance footage relating to your crime and other proof to illustrate this point.
You Were Not Present at the Scene of the Crime
There are instances in which a person can be charged with a crime in spite of the fact that they were not actually present when a criminal act was committed. Your attorney can share your alibi with the court. If there is reasonable doubt about whether you are the individual responsible for a crime, the case against you may be dismissed.
There Was No Intent
You may be charged with a crime but have no idea that what you were doing was illegal. For example, someone gives you verbal consent to use their car but claims you took it without the intent of ever returning it to them. Your lawyer could prove there was no intent, which may help you achieve a favorable case outcome.
There Was a Case of Mistaken Identity
The police could arrest you because they believed you were someone who committed a crime. Your lawyer can present evidence to show that there was a case of mistaken identity. If you can prove that someone else is responsible for the crime, the court may drop the case against you.
Your Constitutional Rights Were Violated
Police officers could search and seize your property without your authorization. On the other hand, they could arrest you, choose not to provide you with your Miranda warning, and start to question you without you knowing that you have the right to remain silent. If either of these things happens, your attorney could argue that your constitutional rights were violated.
Select a lawyer who has a proven reputation in misdemeanor cases. Your attorney will commit the time and resources to learn about your case and determine how to make a compelling argument. They also remain accessible to address your legal concerns and questions.
Get Help from a Glendale Criminal Defense Attorney
Do not wait any longer to request legal help with your misdemeanor case. Suzuki Law Offices can connect you with a misdemeanor defense lawyer who gives your case their undivided attention. Schedule a free case consultation with us.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form