Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in Avondale, AZ: Protecting Your Rights
When facing criminal charges in Avondale, AZ, choosing the right defense attorney is essential. Arizona Law Group has served clients across Arizona for over 20 years, with a combined experience of more than 200 years. Our team, led by knowledgeable attorneys, handles a wide range of cases, from DUI and drug charges to violent crimes and white-collar offenses. We’re known for our commitment to protecting clients and achieving positive results.
Why Choose Arizona Law Group?
The criminal defense process is challenging, with high stakes that impact your freedom, reputation, and future. Our attorneys handle various cases—from DUI and assault to complex fraud—using strategies tailored to each client. With a strong record of successful outcomes, we understand the risks involved and are dedicated to helping clients get the best possible result.
Contact our Avondale, AZ Office
We are located in Avondale at 12725 W. Indian School Road, just west of N. Santa Fe Trail, and have over 100 years of combined legal experience, our law firm’s history is strongly connected to Avondale’s community and court system. Trust us to be your Avondale defense team.
12725 W Indian School Rd E-101-102,
Avondale, AZ 85392
Phone: 623-979-2100
Hours: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Avondale office map and directions
Avondale City Court Proceedings
We understand that you are here right now because something is very wrong and you need our help. Were you, a family member, or a close friend arrested within the Avondale city limits? The initial appearance may be before a judge of the Avondale City Court. Like other municipal courts in the Valley, the city court also has jurisdiction to enter orders of protection. City court proceedings include minor traffic violations and not-so-minor misdemeanor offenses. Many people are surprised to learn that most DUIs are Class 1 Misdemeanors, although there are felony DUIs, too.
With a misdemeanor DUI, criminal proceedings may be held at Avondale City Court or, alternatively, Maricopa County Superior Court. Protective orders, such as an injunction against harassment, may be entered by either the Avondale court or superior court. Felonies are never tried in municipal courts because these lack subject matter jurisdiction over those serious crimes. Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security if DUI proceedings go forward in city court. A DUI conviction – whether in Avondale City Court or the Superior Court of Maricopa County – will carry the same penalties and restrictions.
Whatever happens, understand that expungement and set aside are still possible under Arizona law, even if the conviction came down in municipal court. Talk to an attorney about getting your criminal record cleared so you can take advantage of better employment and lifestyle opportunities in the greater Phoenix area and elsewhere.
For those under criminal investigation for white-collar crime (for example, forgery), drug trafficking, unlawful sexual conduct, burglary, vehicular manslaughter, or some other felony, the case will likely be tried in superior court. However, some criminal cases are tried in U.S. District Court. Everything depends upon the offense charged and the court asserting proper jurisdiction.
Criminal Defense Services in Avondale, AZ
We provide defense for a range of criminal charges, including:
- DUI & Vehicular Crimes
DUI charges come with serious penalties in Arizona. Our Avondale DUI lawyers understand impaired driving laws and work to defend clients from the harshest consequences. Whether it’s a first-time DUI or a more complicated vehicular case, we use our expertise in DUI law to build the strongest defense. - Assault and Domestic Violence
Assault and domestic violence cases can be complicated, often involving misunderstandings or emotional situations. Arizona penalties are tough, including jail, fines, and restrictions on family contact. We investigate evidence, witness accounts, and the motives behind the accusations. Our defense strategy represents your side of the story, challenges false claims, and works toward a fair outcome. - Order of Protection
Orders of Protection, often issued in domestic matters, can restrict your freedom, family access, and living arrangements. While intended to protect, they are sometimes issued too quickly or unfairly. We work to modify or dismiss unjustified orders by challenging the underlying claims and seeking fair terms. If an order is already in place, we help clients understand and navigate its conditions. - Disorderly Conduct
Disorderly conduct charges can result from a variety of incidents, like public disputes or situations that escalate. As a broad charge, disorderly conduct can have serious consequences. Our attorneys review the context and motivations involved, present mitigating factors, and strive to reduce or dismiss these charges. - Gun Charges and Violent Crimes
Arizona handles gun charges and violent crimes with severe penalties, including long prison sentences. We defend clients facing violent charges, such as assault, robbery, and gun-related offenses. We review every detail, from witness statements to video footage and self-defense claims, to build a defense that protects your rights. - Drug Crimes
Arizona enforces strict drug laws, covering everything from possession to trafficking. Our attorneys examine every part of these cases, from evidence collection to police procedures, to secure reduced or dismissed charges. We focus on exposing flaws in the prosecution’s case, challenging illegal searches, and pursuing the best possible result. - White Collar and Fraud Crimes
White-collar crimes, such as fraud and embezzlement, often involve complex financial and legal details. Our team has extensive experience with these cases, defending clients against charges that can affect their professional and personal lives. We analyze financial records and communications to build a comprehensive defense. - Other Charges
Our team also handles juvenile offenses, probation violations, post-conviction appeals, and other charges. We help clients with related matters like expungements, rights restoration, and sentence reduction motions to aid in moving forward after their case. Whatever the charge, we provide personalized support and strategic defense to guide you through the legal process.
The Criminal Legal Process in Avondale
Facing criminal charges can be intimidating, but knowing what to expect helps. Here’s what happens at each stage and how we support you:
- Investigation
Law enforcement may start by gathering evidence, witness statements, and digital records. An attorney helps protect your rights during this phase, ensuring fair treatment. - Formal Charging
If the prosecutor believes there’s enough evidence, they file charges. At this point, we begin reviewing the case and creating a defense strategy to challenge the prosecution’s evidence. - Initial Appearance
After an arrest, you’ll appear before a judge within 24 hours to hear the charges. We are there to support you, discuss possible bail, and advocate for your release. - Status Conference and Preliminary Hearing
In a status conference, your lawyer meets with the prosecutor to discuss your case and potential resolutions. For felony charges, a preliminary hearing is held to determine if there is enough evidence. We fight to challenge weak evidence and aim for a favorable outcome. - Arraignment
At arraignment, you enter a plea. If you plead not guilty, the court will schedule your pretrial conference and trial. Your attorney will guide you on options and next steps. - Pretrial Conference and Discovery
During the pretrial conference, we discuss key issues and negotiate with the prosecution. During discovery, we gather evidence, from physical items to digital records, to build your defense. - Settlement Conference
This phase provides a chance to settle the case with input from a judge, potentially avoiding trial. We work to ensure any agreement reached serves your best interests. - Trial
If your case goes to trial, we present your defense, question witnesses, and challenge the prosecution’s arguments. Our goal is to expose weaknesses in their case and achieve the best result. - Sentencing and Appeals
If convicted, we assist with sentencing to minimize penalties and explore appeal options if necessary.
Mitigating the Collateral Consequences of a Conviction
A conviction affects more than just your freedom; it can impact your job, housing, and family life. Some collateral consequences include:
- Restrictions on where you can live or work
- Loss of professional licenses
- Limits on custody or visitation rights
Our team works to reduce these consequences by developing a Mitigation Package, which may include psychological evaluations, personal history, and counseling records. This package presents a fuller view of your situation, helping reduce the severity of penalties.
How Arizona Law Group Supports You
From investigation through post-conviction relief, our team tailors defense strategies to your case. Here’s what you can expect:
- Detailed Timeline and Background Interview
In initial meetings, we gather a full timeline and background details to understand your perspective. - In-Depth Investigation
We examine every angle, using private investigators, forensic experts, or polygraph tests as needed, to find new evidence or challenge the prosecution. - Handling Court Appearances and Conditions of Release
You may need to attend multiple court appearances if charged. For cases with strict release conditions, we can file motions to modify them, like lifting electronic monitoring or allowing family contact. - Building a Mitigation Package
We compile independent reports, witness statements, and professional evaluations to create a persuasive mitigation case.
Criminal Defense FAQs
What is an Arraignment?
An arraignment is the first formal court appearance after charges are filed. During this hearing, the judge will read the charges, inform you of your rights, and ask for your plea—either “guilty,” “not guilty,” or “no contest.” It’s wise to plead not guilty and speak to a defense attorney.
What should I do if I’m arrested?
If you’re arrested, stay calm and avoid making statements. Ask for an attorney immediately, as anything you say can be used against you. Having a criminal defense lawyer from the start helps you avoid mistakes and protects your rights.
What is Bond?
Bond, or bail, is a payment to secure your release from jail until trial. Bond types vary and can depend on factors like the seriousness of the charge.
What is Discovery?
Discovery is when both sides gather and share evidence. Your attorney will review everything the prosecution has to build a strong defense.
What is a Pretrial Conference?
A pretrial conference is a meeting where your attorney and the prosecutor discuss the status of your case and potential resolutions, like plea agreements.
What if I live out of state?
If you’re facing charges in Arizona but live elsewhere, your attorney can handle many court appearances on your behalf, filing motions to keep you in your home state if allowed.
Contact Our Criminal Defense Team in Avondale, AZ
When facing criminal charges in Avondale, AZ, you need a defense team dedicated to protecting your rights and future. Arizona Law Group brings experience, personalized strategies, and a record of success. Reach out today to start defending your future.
Call us at 623-263-1000 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation.
What Our Clients Have to Say:
“Colin Bell was amazing in the way he handled my case. Colin was always available when I had questions and made sure I was made aware of what to expect and the process moving forward. This put me at ease throughout the duration of my case. Response to emails by end of day or next day, excellent communication, never rushed, goes above and beyond of what you would expect and very professional. What more can you ask for?”
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kimberly J.
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