Tempe Criminal Defense Lawyer
Defending Against Criminal Charges in Arizona
Arrested? Facing criminal accusations? Contact MayesTelles PLLC today! Our law firm represents individuals in Tempe and elsewhere in the Phoenix metro area who need strong defense at their sides. The criminal lawyer you choose to handle your case could drastically impact the outcome.
Why Choose Us?
- Thousands of cases handled
- Nearly 200 years of experience
- Top 100 Trial Lawyers & AV Preeminent ratings
- 24/7 availability
- Insight from former prosecutors
Call MayesTelles PLLC today at (602) 428-7104 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our criminal defense attorney in Tempe.
Criminal Cases We Handle
We handle a wide range of misdemeanor and felony charges, including:
- Drug crimes
- Sex offenses
- Theft crimes
- Domestic violence
- Weapon offenses
- Disorderly conduct
Some of our clients are first-time offenders, while others have been in the justice system before. Whatever describes your situation, you can have confidence in our team of criminal defense attorneys.
Arizona Criminal Justice System
In Arizona, the criminal justice system operates similarly to many other states in the United States, with its own statutes, procedures, and institutions. Here's a basic overview:
- Investigation: When a crime is reported or suspected, law enforcement agencies such as the police or sheriff's department initiate an investigation. This involves gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and identifying suspects.
- Arrest: If enough evidence supports a charge, law enforcement may arrest the suspect. They are then taken into custody and brought before a judge for an initial appearance.
- Initial Appearance and Bail: At the initial appearance, the judge informs the defendant of the charges against them and their rights. They also determine whether the defendant will be released on bail or held in custody pending trial.
- Grand Jury or Preliminary Hearing: In Arizona, felony cases typically proceed through a preliminary hearing rather than a grand jury indictment. During this hearing, the prosecution presents evidence to show probable cause that the defendant committed the crime. If the judge finds probable cause, the case proceeds to trial.
- Arraignment: The defendant is formally charged and pleases guilty, not guilty, or no contest at arraignment. If they plead not guilty, the case moves forward to trial.
- Trial: The trial is where the prosecution and defense present evidence, examine witnesses, and argue with a judge or jury. In Arizona, defendants have the right to a jury trial for most criminal offenses.
- Verdict: After considering the evidence, the judge or jury reaches a verdict of guilty or not guilty. If the verdict is guilty, the judge imposes a sentence.
- Sentencing: The judge determines the appropriate punishment within the guidelines set by Arizona law. This could include incarceration, fines, probation, or other penalties.
- Appeals: If a defendant believes there was a legal error in their trial, they may appeal the conviction or sentence to a higher court.
Throughout these stages, both the defendant and the prosecution have certain rights and responsibilities, and legal protections are in place to ensure fair treatment for all parties involved. The Arizona criminal justice system aims to uphold the law while protecting defendants' rights.
About Our Criminal Defense Law Firm
MayesTelles PLLC is a criminal defense law firm founded on the principle of justice for the accused. We believe strongly that every individual has the right to exceptional representation and an advocate they can trust. We want to be that advocate for you. Our skilled attorneys combine nearly 200 years of collective experience, including experience as former prosecutors. We understand the intricacies of the justice system and are here to ensure you receive fair treatment.
Contact MayesTelles PLLC today to get started with our Tempe criminal defense attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions Criminal Defense Cases
What Should I Do If I Am Arrested in Tempe?
The first step is to remain calm and remember your rights. Never resisting arrest is crucial, as this can lead to additional charges. The right to remain silent is fundamental; anything said can be used against you in court. When approached by law enforcement, only provide identification details and comply without volunteering additional information. Ask for a criminal defense attorney immediately upon arrest and refrain from self-representation during questioning.
Upon release, whether on bail or recognizance, promptly contact a criminal defense lawyer. Engaging with a skilled lawyer ensures proper representation during initial court appearances and beyond. At MayesTelles PLLC, our attorneys offer immediate consultation to review your case, explain your rights in detail, and formulate a preliminary strategy. Understanding the legal process early helps navigate the complex Arizona justice system effectively without unnecessary implications or missteps.
What Are Commonly Faced Criminal Charges in Tempe?
With its diverse community and thriving business environment, Tempe sees various criminal charges. Common offenses include DUI, drug-related crimes, and theft, often influenced by Tempe’s dynamic lifestyle and demographic. DUI is among the most frequent charges due to extensive enforcement along significant roadways and checkpoints near entertainment hubs.
Drug charges, from possession to distribution, reflect broader state-level enforcement initiatives. Vehicular crimes, particularly related to disorderly conduct and theft offenses, are also prominent, given the city’s high traffic volume. Our criminal defense attorneys are well-versed in defending against these charges, effectively navigating local statutes with strategies tailored to address such prevalent issues within Tempe’s jurisdiction.
Can I Be Tried for a Felony and a Misdemeanor Simultaneously?
Yes, it's possible to face both felony and misdemeanor charges arising from the same incident or related conduct. It largely depends on the nature of the alleged offenses and their severity. Felonies are serious crimes, with potential penalties including lengthy imprisonment and substantial fines, while misdemeanors carry lighter sentences.
When accused of concurrent charges, it’s imperative to have a seasoned criminal defense attorney who can strategically handle the multifaceted aspects of your defense. At MayesTelles PLLC, we analyze all elements of your case to develop a comprehensive defense plan. Understanding the interplay between different charges ensures no aspect of your case is overlooked, allowing for a robust challenge against felony and misdemeanor allegations.
We've Won Thousands of Cases
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Charges Reduced to Reckless Driving
Client R.C. was stopped by Mesa Police for a civil traffic violation and later charged with DUI, Extreme DUI, and Super Extreme DUI in a justice court. During the course of their representation, MayesTelles attorneys discovered important inconsistencies in the police reports. When we presented these issues to the State, the prosecutor’s office agreed to drop all DUI charges.
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Fatal Commercial Vehicle Accident
MayesTelles Client A.F. and her husband tragically lost their unborn child as a result of the negligence of an individual operating a commercial vehicle in Yuma, Arizona. After substantial investigation including accident reconstruction and filing a lawsuit, the insurance company paid out the policy limits of $1,000,000.00.
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4 Counts of Aggravated DUI Dismissed
Client M.W. was charged with 4 counts of Aggravated DUI in the Maricopa County Superior Court in July 2016 for allegedly riding a motorized bicycle under the influence. The attorneys at MayesTelles demanded that the State include certain materials in their presentation to the grand jury, resulting in the grand jury refusing to indict and the case being dismissed.
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Client Charged with DUI
Client, GS, charged with DUI - sentence was reduced to reckless driving.
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Client Facing Assault Felony
M.L. was charged with 1 count of Aggravated Assault, a class 3 dangerous felony. She plead guilty to Aggravated Assault, a class 6 undesignated felony, with a stipulation to 3 months of initial jail. She received credit for 32 days and the rest of the jail time was deferred. She was placed on 3 years of supervised probation. She has the opportunity to designate the offense a misdemeanor after successfully completing probation. Location: Maricopa County Superior Court
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Client Charged with DUI
Our client, A.R, was charged with 1 count of DUI and 1 count of Failure to Control Speed to Avoid a Collision. During extensive pre-trial investigation, it was discovered that the police made many errors in how they handled the case. We were able to get the client's charges reduced to reckless driving. Location: Glendale City Court
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Client Charged with Four Felony Counts
Our client, Ms. D., was charged with two counts of forgery - a class 4 Felony as well as theft - a class 2 Felony and also fraudulent schemes and artifices - a class 2 Felony. We were able to get her conviction reduced to a class 6 undesignated felony with the opportunity to reduce further to a misdemeanor. Location: Maricopa County Superior Court
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Client Charged with Trespass & Assault
Our client, T.C., was charged in Maricopa County Superior Court on July 8, 2015 with 1 count of Criminal Trespass, a class 6 felony, and 1 count Assault, a class 2 Misdemeanor. On September 9, 2015, after an 8-day jury trial, our client was found not guilty on both charges. Location: Maricopa County Superior Court
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Client Charged with Shoplifting
Our client, Ms. H., was charged with shoplifting - a class 1 misdemeanor. We were able to get her conviction set aside. Location: Phoenix Municipal Court
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Client Faced 5 Felony Sex Offenses
Our client, Mr. C., was charged with five counts of felony sex offenses, including two counts of Sex Conduct with a Minor and three counts of Molestation of a Child. We were able to get the case dismissed upon a successful Motion to Dismiss. Location: Maricopa County Superior Court
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Client Charged with Disorderly Conduct
Our client, K.F., was charged with Disorderly Conduct, a class 1 misdemeanor. We were able to get this client's case dismissed. Location: Tempe Municipal Court
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Client Facing Multiple Criminal Charges
Our client, L.S., was charged on October 20, 2014 in Mesa for an assault, disorderly conduct, and criminal damage. MayesTelles PLLC was able to get those charges dismissed.
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Client Facing Multiple Domestic Violence Offenses
Our client, Ms. C., was facing charges of assault / domestic violence (class 1 misdemeanor), disorderly conduct / domestic violence (class 1 misdemeanor), and criminal damage / domestic violence (class 1 misdemeanor). We were able to get our client's case dismissed. Location: Mesa Municipal Court
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Charged with Assault & Failure to Appear
Our client, L.S., was charged in Phoenix on December 27, 2014 for assault and failure to appear. After completing diversion, our client's case was dismissed.
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Multiple Felony Theft Offenses
Our client, Mr. C., was charged with Theft of Means of Transportation (Class 3 Felony) and Trafficking in Stolen Property (Class 3 Felony). Both class 3 felonies have a possible sentencing range of 2 - 8.75 years in prison. We were able to get our client's charge reduced to a Class 1 Misdemeanor with no jail time. Location: Maricopa County Superior Court
Why Choose MayesTelles PLLC?
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Nearly 200 Years of Combined Experience
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Thousands of Cases Successfully Handled
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Voted Top 100 Trial Lawyers
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Available to Our Clients 24/7
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Former Prosecutors & Law Enforcement
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AV Preeminent Rated Attorneys