Being accused of a crime can be a daunting matter with the potential of years in prison, hefty fines, and a loss of reputation. When you are facing criminal charges, you have the right to defend yourself to the fullest extent of the law. Relying on the legal guidance and experience of a Rio Verde criminal defense lawyer can help support your case and protect your freedom.
At Suzuki Law Group, we are here to provide you with a detailed, experienced defense. We will work with you to defend your rights, no matter what you are facing. When you are ready to discuss your case and potential defense options, simply contact our legal team to request a confidential consultation.
Common Criminal Offenses in the Rio Verde Area
There is a wide variety of criminal cases depending on the type of criminal offense, severity of the offense, and the penalties that you could face. Your criminal defense attorney in Rio Verde will help you prepare for the courtroom by identifying your charges and building a strong case for your defense. A few common criminal charges our team works to defend include:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Theft and robbery
- Violent crimes, including domestic violence and assault and battery
- Drug violations from possession to trafficking
- Sex crimes
- Fraud and embezzlement
No matter what crime you have been accused of, a criminal defense attorney in Rio Verde can help defend you. They will start by identifying the charges and explaining to you the possible devastating consequences and penalties. This will help you prepare for the courtroom and what you may face during your criminal defense trial.
Two Types of Criminal Cases: Felonies and Misdemeanors
Felonies and misdemeanors are the two types of criminal offenses. There are legal differences between the two when it comes to procedures in trials, whether you will face a jury, and the types of penalties that are typically handed out if convicted. Your Rio Verde criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the difference and what type of criminal case you will be pleading.
Misdemeanors are defined in ARS §13-707 as less serious crimes than felonies and carry lighter penalties such as community service, fines, probation, and less than a year in jail. Common misdemeanors include DUIs, shoplifting, trespassing, harassment, disorderly conduct, and criminal speeding. If you are charged with a misdemeanor, you must only appear before a judge, not an entire jury.
Felonies are serious crimes, typically involving physical violence or severe psychological harm, and face more than a year of imprisonment, even life in prison. Common felonies include murder, sexual crimes, assault and battery, robbery, drug crimes, and kidnapping. With a felony, there will first be an indictment or preliminary trial, and then you may have to face a jury trial.
Types of Penalties for Criminal Charges
Being convicted of a crime can result in serious consequences and severe penalties. Sentences can vary greatly depending various factors like the severity of your crime and whether or not it was a first offense. Repeat offenders are subject to far longer prison sentences, according to the Criminal Code Sentencing Chart from the Arizona Judicial Branch.
Prison sentences are often the most feared part of a criminal conviction, with long-lasting repercussions including lost time, lost wages and job, loss of reputation, and more. Many felony cases result in prison time, with lesser sentences starting at over a year in prison to 25 years or more. Misdemeanors typically only result in less than a year in prison and can also end with sentences being served in a county jail.
Both felonies and misdemeanors often are accompanied by hefty fines, whether or not you are sentenced to jail time. Going to prison makes it likely that you will lose your job, making it difficult to pay these fines and causing you to struggle to support your family. Having a Rio Verde criminal defense lawyer on your side can help negotiate a plea deal or reduce your sentence if you are convicted.
Defending Against Criminal Charges with a Rio Verde Criminal Defense Attorney
Obtaining legal support is the most important step in the aftermath of being accused of a crime. Choose a criminal defense lawyer in Rio Verde who has extensive legal knowledge and experience in the courtroom, knows your rights, and will be a dedicated advocate for you. When looking for a criminal defense lawyer, it is also vital you choose someone you feel comfortable with and make sure you are able to afford their fees.
Defending against criminal charges is never easy, but your legal team will work with you to advocate the best possible outcome in your individual case. When defending against criminal charges, you must provide reasonable doubt regarding whether you committed the criminal action. The defense can also question evidence that has been submitted based on
If there is not enough available evidence to provide proof of innocence, there are other options that your legal team will advise you to pursue. Rather than accepting the full sentencing, they might be able to find other legal factors like mitigating circumstances that prevent you from facing the full penalties. Your Rio Verde criminal defense attorney might also advise you to negotiate a plea bargain, which works to get the best possible outcome in sentencing in exchange for pleading guilty.
Connect with a Trial-Proven Criminal Defense Attorney for Legal Guidance in Rio Verde
When you contact our office for support with your criminal defense case, you can expect to be treated with respect and compassion. We represent our clients’ interests with decades of trial-proven experience and aggressive advocacy. Our criminal defense lawyers are meticulous in our approach and will provide legal guidance every step of the way.
Connect with a criminal defense lawyer in Rio Verde from our offices for top-tier legal support. We have live representatives waiting to discuss your case 24/7. Contact us today for a no-obligation, confidential, and free case evaluation.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form