Trusted Tempe Criminal Lawyers Fighting for Your Rights
Being arrested or charged with a crime in Tempe, AZ can be a life-changing event. At Arizona Law Group, our experienced attorneys understand what you’re going through and are here to help. With over two decades of service and 200+ years of combined legal experience, we’ve successfully defended thousands of clients across Arizona. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a felony, we know how to protect your future and defend your rights at every step.
Why Hire Arizona Law Group as Your Criminal Defense Law Firm?
Criminal charges can put your freedom, job, and family life at risk. That’s why our Tempe criminal defense lawyers take every case seriously and work one-on-one with clients to build smart, effective defense strategies. From the moment you contact us, we focus on protecting your rights and pursuing the best outcome possible.
Criminal Charges We Defend in Tempe, AZ
DUI & Traffic-Related Offenses
DUI charges in Tempe, Arizona, come with serious penalties, including jail time, fines, and license suspension. Whether it’s your first DUI or you’re facing an aggravated charge, our criminal defense lawyers in Tempe, Arizona, have the experience to examine the evidence, challenge improper stops, and fight for your license and freedom.
Assault and Domestic Violence
Domestic violence and assault cases can be complex, often involving conflicting stories or emotional situations. Arizona law imposes harsh penalties, including protective orders and loss of gun rights. Our Tempe criminal lawyers near you carefully investigate the details, cross-examine witnesses, and present a strong defense to protect your name and future.
Orders of Protection
Arizona courts may issue Orders of Protection that limit your ability to go home, see your children, or contact someone involved in the case. While these orders are meant to prevent harm, they are sometimes issued too quickly without hearing both sides. Our criminal defense attorneys near you fight to modify or remove unfair orders and make sure your rights are not overlooked.
Disorderly Conduct
Disorderly conduct can include anything from loud arguments to offensive language in public. While this is often charged as a misdemeanor, a conviction can lead to fines, probation, or even jail. The team at our criminal defense law firm in Tempe, AZ, digs into the facts and works to resolve these cases quickly and favorably.
Gun Crimes and Violent Offenses
Arizona takes gun and violent crimes very seriously. Charges like robbery, aggravated assault, or unlawful firearm possession can lead to prison time and a felony record. A nearby Tempe criminal defense lawyer from Arizona Law Group investigates every detail, looks into possible self-defense claims, and works to weaken the prosecution’s case.
Drug Charges
From marijuana possession to narcotics trafficking, drug crimes in Arizona carry strict penalties. Our criminal defense attorneys near you examine search and seizure methods, warrant issues, and police behavior to uncover any rights violations. Our goal is to get charges reduced—or dropped altogether.
White Collar Crimes & Fraud
If you’ve been accused of embezzlement, forgery, or another white-collar offense, you need a legal team with knowledge of both the law and financial investigations. Our Tempe criminal lawyers near you build detailed defenses using evidence such as financial records, emails, and witness testimony.
Other Offenses We Handle
Our Tempe criminal defense lawyers represent Arizona clients charged with probation violations, juvenile offenses, criminal damage, and more. As a criminal defense law firm near you, we further assist with expungements, set-asides, and restoring your civil rights after conviction.
Tempe Municipal Court Information
The Tempe Municipal Court is responsible for handling misdemeanor criminal cases, city code violations, and traffic offenses that occur within Tempe, AZ, city limits.
Examples of Cases Heard in Tempe City Court:
- Misdemeanor DUIs
- Simple assault
- Criminal speeding
- Trespassing
- Violations of local ordinances
If you’re cited for a misdemeanor, you will need to attend your arraignment, which is your first court appearance where charges are read, and a plea is entered. It’s important to arrive early and be prepared. Some traffic-related violations may be paid online, but most criminal charges require your appearance.
Tempe Municipal Court Contact Info:
- Address: 140 E 5th St, Tempe, AZ, 85281, USA
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8AM – 5PM
- Phone: (480) 350-8271
Tempe, Arizona Criminal Court Process: What to Expect
1. Investigation Stage
Before charges are filed, law enforcement may collect statements, examine digital records, and review evidence. Hiring a Tempe criminal defense lawyer early can make a big difference in how your case is handled.
2. Filing of Charges
If the prosecutor believes there is enough evidence, they’ll file formal charges. We begin immediately by analyzing the case and preparing a defense strategy.
3. Initial Appearance
You’ll appear before a judge to be informed of your charges, set bond conditions, and determine release terms. With an Arizona Law Group criminal defense attorney nearby, we protect your rights and argue for your release.
4. Pretrial Conference
The pretrial conference is where your attorney and the prosecutor meet to discuss your case and possible resolutions, such as a plea deal or dismissal. This is a critical step in resolving your case before trial.
5. Preliminary Hearing (Felonies Only)
If you’re charged with a felony, the court holds a hearing to determine if there is enough evidence for the case to continue. We challenge weak or flawed evidence at this stage to seek a favorable outcome.
6. Arraignment
At your arraignment, you’ll enter a plea—usually “not guilty.” If the case proceeds, a trial date will be set.
7. Discovery & Settlement Conference
During discovery, both sides exchange information. The settlement conference allows the judge to help both parties reach a resolution before trial.
8. Trial
At trial, the prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Our team defends you aggressively, presents evidence, and cross-examines witnesses.
9. Sentencing and Appeals
If convicted, we fight for the lowest possible sentence and advise on your right to appeal.
Limiting the Impact of a Conviction
A conviction can affect more than just your criminal record. It may impact:
- Employment options
- Where you can live
- Professional licenses
- Parenting rights
We create a Mitigation Package that includes background history, mental health evaluations, character references, and proof of rehabilitation. This gives the court a fuller picture of your circumstances and can lead to lighter sentencing or charge reductions.
How Our Tempe Criminal Defense Lawyers Help You
Here’s what you can expect from working with Arizona Law Group:
- Personalized Strategy – Every case is different. We build your defense around your unique facts.
- Court Representation – From arraignments to trials, we show up and fight for you every step of the way.
- Experienced Guidance – We explain your options clearly and walk you through the legal system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do if I’m arrested?
Stay silent. Do not explain, argue, or answer questions. Ask to speak to a nearby criminal defense attorney immediately.
What is a pretrial conference?
It’s a meeting between your Tempe criminal lawyer and the prosecutor to talk about your case and possible plea deals or resolutions.
What is bond?
Bond (or bail) is money paid to ensure you return to court. The amount depends on the charge and your history.
Can I avoid going to court if I live out of state?
In many cases, yes. Our criminal defense law firm can file motions to excuse your appearance in Arizona court and handle much of the case on your behalf.
What is discovery?
Discovery is when the prosecution and defense share evidence. It’s a crucial part of preparing your case.
Contact Our Tempe Criminal Defense Attorneys Near You Today
If you’re facing criminal charges don’t wait! The Arizona Law Group has criminal defense lawyers in Tempe, AZ, ready to protect your future and fight for your rights.
Office Address: 4700 S Mill Ave, #5, Tempe, AZ 85282, USA
Call Us: 480-420-0502
Request a Free Consultation Today