Phoenix Violent Crime Attorney

Get Tough Defense from Top 100 Lawyers

Have you been arrested for committing a violent crime? Our Phoenix defense lawyers may be able to help you. MayesTelles PLLC is a criminal defense firm that represents clients throughout the Phoenix Metro area. We have handled thousands of cases and have the experience of former prosecutors on our team.

At MayesTelles, our dedicated team of legal professionals is committed to providing robust defense strategies for individuals facing allegations of violent crimes. Our Phoenix violent crime lawyers understand the complexity and severity of these charges and stands ready to protect the rights and interests of our clients at every stage of the legal process.

For tough defense that you can rely on in your time of need, call MayesTelles!

What is Considered a "Dangerous Offense" in Arizona?

Arizona classifies some criminal offenses as "dangerous." According to the Arizona Revised Statutes, a dangerous offense is "an offense involving discharge, use or threatening exhibition of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument or the intentional or knowing infliction of serious physical injury on another person." Many of the violent crime cases we handle are offenses classified as "dangerous."

Common Types of Violent Crimes

Violent and serious crimes listed out in A.R.S. 13- 706 are subject to aggravated sentences.

MayesTelles PLLC handles a variety of different violent crimes, including:

• Assault: This involves intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing injury to another person or placing them in reasonable apprehension of imminent physical injury.
• Aggravated Assault: It encompasses more serious forms of assault that involve the use of a deadly weapon or result in severe bodily harm, disfigurement, or impairment.
• Domestic Violence: Acts of violence or abuse committed against a spouse, former spouse, romantic partner, co-parent, or household member fall under this category.
• Homicide: This includes murder (intentionally causing someone's death), manslaughter (causing death without intent), and negligent homicide (causing death through negligence).
• Robbery: It involves taking someone else's property by force, threat, or intimidation.
• Sex Offenses: Any non-consensual sexual contact or intercourse falls under this category, including rape, child molestation, and other forms of sexual violence.
• Armed Robbery / Burglary: The use of a weapon or threat of violence while committing robbery or burglary.
• Weapons Offenses: A range of illegal actions related to the possession, use, sale, or trafficking of firearms or other weapons.

Arizona Penalties for Violent Crimes

In Arizona, penalties for violent crimes vary based on the severity of the offense, the specific circumstances, the defendant's criminal history, and other factors. Here's an overview of potential penalties for some common violent crimes:

Assault

• Simple assault (Class 1 misdemeanor): Up to 6 months in jail, fines up to $2,500.
• Aggravated assault (ranging from Class 2 to Class 6 felonies): Penalties can include prison sentences from several years to more than a decade, with fines up to $150,000.

Domestic Violence

Penalties can range from misdemeanor to felony charges, depending on the severity of the crime. Punishments include jail time, fines, mandatory counseling, and restraining orders. It carries the same penalties as an assault charge, but may lead to more extreme consequences pertaining to child custody and visitation issues.

Homicide

• Murder (ranging from second-degree to first-degree): Penalties include lengthy prison sentences, life imprisonment, or the death penalty.
• Manslaughter (class 2 felony): Penalties can involve 7 years of imprisonment for a first offense up to 35 years in prison for an individual with 2 prior dangerous felony convictions.

Robbery

• Robbery (Class 4 felony): Penalties include imprisonment up to 3.75 years, fines up to $150,000.
• Aggravated robbery (Class 3 felony or higher): Penalties escalate to lengthier prison terms and higher fines.

Sexual Assault

Sexual assault charges vary in severity and can lead to penalties ranging from probation and counseling to significant prison time (range between 5.25 years and up to a maximum of life in prison), especially in cases of aggravated sexual assault.

Common Violent Crime Defense Strategies in AZ

Defending against violent crime charges in Arizona often requires a comprehensive approach tailored to the specific circumstances of the case. Some defense strategies employed may include:

Self-Defense or Defense of Others: If the accused acted in self-defense or to protect others from imminent harm, it can be a valid defense. The defense must demonstrate that the use of force was reasonable given the situation.

Lack of Intent: For certain violent crimes like assault or homicide, proving that the accused did not have the intent to commit the crime can be a viable defense strategy.

Mistaken Identity: In cases where identification is a key issue, showing that the accused was wrongly identified as the perpetrator can be a strong defense.

Alibi: Providing evidence that the accused was somewhere else at the time the crime occurred can serve as an alibi defense.

Police Misconduct or Violation of Rights: Challenging evidence obtained unlawfully or through police misconduct, such as an illegal search or seizure, can lead to the exclusion of that evidence from trial.

Insufficient Evidence: If the prosecution fails to present enough credible evidence to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, this can lead to acquittal.

Voluntary Intoxication: In certain cases, if the accused was intoxicated to the extent that they were unable to form the requisite intent for the crime, this might serve as a defense.

False Accusations or Fabricated Evidence: If it can be demonstrated that the allegations were fabricated or that the evidence was tampered with or falsely presented, it can help the defense's case.

Reduction of Charges: Negotiating with the prosecution to reduce the charges or pursue alternative sentencing options can be a strategy to mitigate potential penalties.

Mitigating Circumstances: Highlighting mitigating factors such as mental illness, duress, or other circumstances that might have influenced the accused's actions can be used in defense.

Each case is unique, and the most effective defense strategy depends on the specific details and evidence involved. Our team of skilled Phoenix violent crime defense attorneys will assess the case thoroughly to determine the most appropriate defense approach to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

Reasons to Choose MayesTelles for Your Defense

A violent crime conviction can seriously alter your future, especially if you have prior offenses. Combat your charges with the help of a Phoenix violent crime attorney at our firm. When your freedom is on the line, you cannot afford to retain mediocre counsel or a public defender. Choose MayesTelles PLLC because:

• We have handled thousands of cases
• We are "Top 100 Trial Lawyers" rated
• We have the insight of former prosecutors on our team
• We have nearly 200 years of experience

We are available 24/7 to take your calls, so get in touch with us today to discuss your charges, and we can inform you of your legal rights and options. Call MayesTelles today!