If you have been arrested for a violent crime, the penalties are severe. A Pima violent crimes lawyer can help you address the seriousness of your case and help you navigate the criminal legal process. For more than 30 years, Suzuki Law Offices has been helping people protect their rights.
Arizona does not take a violent crime lightly. The state hands out harsh sentences if you are found guilty of a violent crime. With a Pima criminal defense lawyer by your side, we’ll be your voice in action and help you mitigate the damaging consequences of these accusations.
The Investigation Process for a Violent Crime in Arizona
When investigating a violent crime in Arizona, you can expect the process to be thorough and aggressive. The police undergo rigorous training to learn how to investigate someone suspected of committing a violent crime. When a police officer receives a report of an allegation of violence, they will not stop investigating until they get to a conclusion.
The police will start by investigating the scene where the incident occurred. Next, they will question witnesses who could have been witnesses. The police have their own effective techniques for finding out the truth, which is why working with a violent crimes attorney in Pima is in your best interest.
If the police confront you, remember that you have a constitutional right to remain silent. You do not have to speak to anyone until you find an attorney. There are several signs you may be under federal investigation, and your attorney can help you decide if you are.
Statute ARS 13-707 in Violent Crimes
The Arizona revised statutes, ARS 13-707, outlines the definitions and sentencing of many violent crimes. Different penalties depend on your criminal record. Some other factors may include whether the offense was a federal crime or not, relevant aggravating factors, or prior convictions.
These types of crimes usually involve threat of force or the use of physical force. A violent crime may or may not involve battery, a sexual act, a dangerous instrument, a felony assault, or a dangerous weapon.
Keep in mind that even if you do not have any prior convictions, you can still receive a long prison sentence. Cases that involve women, minor children, police officers, or federal property can result in a harsher sentence. Working on a strategic case with a violent crimes lawyer in Pima is important if you face this type of crime.
Common Types of Violent Crimes in Arizona
Despite the severity of your charges, you have a right to a defense. It is important to make sure you are treated fairly during a case involving a serious crime. Some of the offenses, according to Statute 13-706, that fall within the violent crime category are:
- Kidnapping
- Manslaughter
- Homicide
- Armed robbery
- Sexual assault
- Felony assault
- Drive by shootings
- First-degree burglary
- Dangerous crimes against children
- Arson to an occupied building
- Aggravated assault with a dangerous weapon
If you face a serious or violent crime charge, having representation is beneficial. At any point, you could say something without the intention of sounding guilty, but it could be perceived that way. You need a strong legal advocate by your side for the best possible outcome.
Potential Defense Strategies
Depending on your case, a specific defense strategy may work out for you. Make sure whichever you choose is the best and most strategic one that proves your side of the story. Some defense strategies are the following:
- Alibi
- Duress
- Self-defense
- Defense of property
- Entrapment
- Insufficient evidence
- Lack of mental state
- Mistaken Identity
It is important not to go to court without the best defense strategy for your case. Without one, you are risking losing and can face a lengthy sentence. It is helpful to hire a criminal defense lawyer so they can help you come up with the best defense option.
Potential Sentencing for an Arizona Violent Crime
Arizona follows a strict penalty for violent crimes, and sentences are determined by the history of the person accused and the severity of the offense. A violent felony will carry a harsh sentence, usually with life in prison for a repeat offender who meets the particular criteria. According to the Criminal Code Sentencing Provisions:
- Misdemeanors: Class 1 (up to 6 months), Class 2 (up to 4 months), Class 3 (up to 30 days).
- Felonies: Class 1 (life imprisonment), Class 2 (12.5 years), Class 3 (8.75 years), Class 4 (3.75 years), Class 5 (2.5 years), Class 6 (2 years).
- Repeat Offenders: Life in prison after two or more prior violent felony convictions within 15 years, with minimum terms of 25-35 years before eligibility for commutation.
A violent crime charge in Arizona typically demands help from an attorney. An attorney can advocate for reducing your charges or alternative sentencing to minimize your penalties. They can also help you understand the potential outcomes moving forward.
How Suzuki Law Offices Can Help You With Your Serious Crimes Case
Our team takes pride in our background as former prosecutors. We provide aggressive defense strategies. Some of the following benefits are what you can expect when working with us:
- Insider knowledge: we know how the courtroom works. Each attorney on our team has served as a federal or state prosecutor.
- Devoted advocacy: We have a strong commitment to our clients to make sure we provide strong representation at the negotiation table and in the courtroom
- Proven methods: While there are no guarantees, we use strategies that we have personally tested and changed throughout the years of our courtroom experience and working with our clients.
When you choose Suzuki Law Offices to be on your side, you are signing up for someone who is going to stand beside you. From the consultation to the courtroom, we are here to help and will keep you informed along the way. We are dedicated to the outcome of your case.
Let a Pima Violent Crimes Attorney Strategize the Best Defense for You
The way you represent yourself and your case can make or break the outcome for you. Letting Suzuki Law Offices handle your case can get you the most out of your situation. Contact us today for a consultation.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form