Misdemeanor offenses are the most common type of crime charged in our criminal justice system. Unfortunately, many make the mistake of not taking a misdemeanor charge seriously since such cases do not carry the same punishment as a felony. Being convicted of such an offense, however, can cause lasting problems when it comes to finding work, obtaining housing, passing background checks, or defending yourself against other criminal charges in the future. If you have been arrested on misdemeanor charges then it is important to know handling the case yourself is not a do-it-yourself project. Contact our criminal defense attorney today to schedule an initial consultation.
Maricopa County criminal lawyer treating misdemeanor cases with the respect and attention they deserve
Misdemeanor charges in Arizona are heard by Municipal Courts or Justice Courts. The Court that hears your case will depend on where you were arrested. Our state divides misdemeanors into three “classes.” A Class One offense can be punished by up to six months in jail and a fine of $2,500. A Class Two offense can receive a $750 fine and four months in jail. A Class Three offense can result in a $500 fine and thirty days in jail. These cases move much quicker than felonies. Once your plea is entered then a trial date will be placed on the Court’s calendar. It will be crucial for your defense lawyer to immediately begin building your defense as your trial date will arrive much faster than one may realize.
Arizona allows for jury trials in certain types of misdemeanor cases. This is different from many other states as most other jurisdictions do not allow a jury in any non-felony case. Matters which will involve a jury include:
- DUI
- Theft
- Prostitution
- Shoplifting
All other misdemeanors will be decided by the Judge in what is called a “bench trial.” Matters resolved at such trials include:
- Marijuana possession
- Misdemeanor domestic violence
- Disorderly Conduct
- Harassment
- Misdemeanor assault
You need a criminal defense attorney who will aggressively defend your rights. This is true regardless of whether you are facing a jury trial or a bench trial.
Bretton Barber adamantly protects the rights of the accused. Once retained Bretton will immediately obtain all relevant discovery, investigate the scene of the incident if necessary, will interview relevant witnesses, and will file pre-trial suppression motions in the event that there are search & seizure issues present in your case and will ensure that you are prepared for trial. This preparation will include making sure that you know what to expect from the process and that you are not caught off guard. A misdemeanor is a serious matter and you need an attorney who will treat it as such. In addition to Phoenix, our lawyer services other Maricopa County cities such as Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Gilbert. We also assist Pima County residents in Tucson.
Phoenix attorney providing a high level of lawyer-client communication throughout misdemeanor cases
One of the biggest complaints people have regarding their attorney experience is a lack of communication. Bretton Barber began his firm in 2013 because he believed that clients deserve an attorney who is responsive to their needs. Bretton provides clients with his personal cell phone number so that he can be reached seven days a week. He also utilizes text messaging and email to answer client questions and is responsive to emergencies. Bretton always prepares clients for any Court appearance and clearly explains what the client can expect. When you hire a criminal defense attorney you deserve a lawyer who understands that they work for you. Call our Phoenix office.
