A misdemeanor charge seems minor, but a conviction could affect you for a long time. Partner with a Thatcher misdemeanors defense lawyer within days of your arrest. Your attorney can combat your charge before it results in a conviction.
Suzuki Law Offices brings decades of legal experience to your misdemeanor case. We are diligent and do everything we can to help those arrested for misdemeanors get their charges reduced or dismissed. Speak to our Thatcher criminal defense lawyers, led by a former federal prosecutor.
Why You Could Be Charged with a Misdemeanor
You wonder about felonies vs. misdemeanors and the difference between them. A felony is more serious than a misdemeanor, but both crimes have penalties associated with them. Reasons why people are charged with misdemeanors include:
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Reckless driving
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Drug possession
- Shoplifting
- Disturbing the peace
- Assault
- Domestic violence
- Speeding
Suzuki Law Offices can answer questions about the age when a juvenile can be charged with a crime in Arizona and others relating to your misdemeanor case. We can provide details about how a misdemeanor conviction could impact you now and in the future. Discuss your case with a Thatcher misdemeanors defense attorney.
A Look at the Short- and Long-Term Consequences of a Misdemeanor Conviction
Misdemeanors are defined in alignment with Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) Title 13, Chapter 29. The punishments you receive for a misdemeanor conviction depend on your crime’s classification and other factors. Here are some of the penalties you could face if you are convicted of a misdemeanor:
- A jail term of up to six months
- A fine totaling up to $2,500
- Suspension of your driver’s license
- Probation
- Community service
- Professional counseling
- Restitution
- Installation of an interlock ignition device (IID) in your car
Along with these penalties, your criminal conviction can keep you from buying a home and achieving other life milestones. It has the potential to damage your relationships with family and friends. A misdemeanors defense lawyer in Thatcher can teach you about these and other consequences that come with a conviction.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Approaches a Thatcher Misdemeanors Defense Strategy
A misdemeanors defense attorney in Thatcher crafts a legal strategy based on the facts of your case. They consider these facts closely to determine how to present an argument that will resonate with the court. Here are legal strategies your lawyer could consider:
No Intent
You had no intention of committing a crime but are charged with one based on something that you did. For example, someone may claim that you stole an item from them, but you do not realize that you are committing theft. A Thatcher theft crimes lawyer could provide the court with evidence that shows a lack of intent.
Wrong Identity
A person thinks you are someone else and accuses you of a crime you did not commit. Mistaken identity can be a problem in criminal cases, and it can lead to false convictions. Fortunately, your lawyer could prove you were mistaken for another person, and, as such, the charge against you should be dropped.
Alibi
A crime happens, and you are charged with it. However, you were not present at the scene when the crime was reported. Your lawyer could share your alibi, and it could become difficult for the prosecution to convince the court to convict you.
Self-Defense
If you face imminent danger, you could have no other choice than to defend yourself. Self-defense is a valid legal defense in a misdemeanor case. Your lawyer could use surveillance camera footage from the scene where you had to protect yourself or other proof to make it clear to the court that you were acting in self-defense.
Insufficient Evidence
The prosecution has a body of evidence, but there are still questions about whether you should be found guilty of a crime. Your lawyer can raise doubts about the prosecution’s evidence. If they succeed, the court could rule in your favor.
Your lawyer can discuss what it means to plead “no contest” to a criminal charge and other legal topics with you. They want you to make informed legal decisions and remain accessible to address your legal concerns and questions at each stage of your litigation. In addition, your lawyer can share tips to help you achieve your desired case result.
Tips to Help You with Your Misdemeanor Case
Give your misdemeanor charge your undivided attention. Remember, the charge will not disappear by itself, and a conviction will stay with you. Use these tips to fight back against your misdemeanor:
Get Legal Help Right Away
Hire a criminal defense lawyer who has an outstanding track record in misdemeanor cases. Choosing to go through the legal process alone can lead to mistakes during your litigation. Your attorney will serve as your legal advocate and representative and make sure you are well-positioned to dispute your charge.
Know Your Legal Rights
Tell your lawyer what happened when you were charged. The police could have chosen not to read your Miranda warning or made other mistakes at the time of your arrest. Your attorney can learn about your case, let you know if your legal rights were violated, and prepare your legal strategy accordingly.
Prioritize Your Health and Well-Being
Give yourself grace and take care of yourself as you deal with your arrest’s aftermath. The thought of being convicted can weigh heavily on you to the point where it impacts your ability to work, enjoy time with family and friends, and live your life the way you want. It can be beneficial to seek counseling to make sure you feel healthy and safe during this challenging period.
Your lawyer supports you and keeps you updated throughout your case proceedings. If the prosecution offers a plea bargain, you can evaluate this proposal with your attorney. You have the final say on whether to approve a plea deal or continue with your litigation.
Trust a Misdemeanors Defense Lawyer Who Provides Exceptional Legal Service
Suzuki Law Offices offers compassionate legal guidance and aggressive advocacy for clients facing misdemeanor charges and other criminal offenses.
Let us serve you as you contest your misdemeanor. Schedule a free case consultation with us.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form