Blog Articles – Criminal Defense & DUI

free case review

Fill out the form below, or call us at
(602) 560-7408.

practice areas

DUI DEFENSE

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Recent Blog Posts

Drug Possession Defense Attorney: Defending Against Meth Possession Charges in Mesa, Arizona

Methamphetamine, also known as meth, is classified as a dangerous drug under Arizona law. As per Arizona Revised Statutes §13-3407, it is illegal to knowingly possess, use, sell, or manufacture methamphetamine. Depending on the circumstances of each case, the charges can be classified as simple possession, possession for sale, or manufacturing.

read more

Stalking Laws in Arizona: Definition, Penalties, and Defenses

Stalking is defined under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-2923 as engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear. A course of conduct can include any repeated and intentional act, including following, contacting, surveilling, or threatening the victim or the victim’s immediate family members. It is important to note that the victim’s fear must be reasonable, meaning that a reasonable person in the victim’s position would feel fear.

read more

What is the Statute of Limitations on Domestic Violence Charges?

According to ARS section 13-107, the statute of limitations for misdemeanor domestic violence charges in Arizona is one year. This means prosecutors must file charges within one year of the alleged incident. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. If you have been accused of domestic violence crimes and the statute of limitations is an issue in your case, it is vital to seek the help of a criminal defense lawyer from the Shah Law Firm as soon as possible.

read more

What Happens if I Get a DUI in a Rental Car in Arizona?

In the state of Arizona, DUI laws apply to all drivers, whether they’re driving a personal vehicle or a rental car. It’s important to remember that the penalties for these DUI charges can be severe, even when driving a rental car. These penalties may include jail time, fines, license suspension, points on your criminal record, and mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID). A DUI in a rental car can also lead to further complications with the rental car company and your insurance provider.

read more

Can I Get a DUI on an Electric Bike or a Motorized Bicycle in Arizona?

In Arizona, you can be charged with DUI on a bicycle that has a motor under Arizona Revised Statute § 28-1381. This law governs DUI offenses in the state, defining a motorized vehicle as any “self-propelled ” vehicle operated on public roads. While electric bikes and motorized bicycles might seem to fall under this definition, there is some confusion as to whether they are considered motor vehicles in the context of DUI laws.

read more

Is Verbal Abuse as Serious as Domestic Abuse? Understanding Arizona Domestic Violence Law

Verbal assault and domestic abuse are distinct offenses under Arizona law. Verbal assault, also known as disorderly conduct, is defined in Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) §13-2904, which states that a person commits disorderly conduct by engaging in behavior that disturbs the peace, such as using offensive language or gestures. On the other hand, domestic abuse is governed by A.R.S. §13-3601. It includes a variety of offenses committed against a family or household member, including physical assault, sexual assault, and emotional abuse.

read more

Drug Court in Maricopa County: Eligibility and the Potentially Life Changing Benefits

Drug addiction and substance abuse have become increasingly prevalent in today’s society. Arizona has implemented various programs to address this issue, including the Maricopa County Adult Drug Court Program. This specialized court aims to provide eligible defendants with an alternative to traditional prosecution and incarceration, focusing on rehabilitation and treatment

read more

Scottsdale Cocaine Charges- The Severe Implications of a Drug Conviction in Arizona

The severity of a cocaine conviction in Scottsdale largely depends on the amount of cocaine involved and the specific offense. According to A.R.S. § 13-3408, possession of any amount of cocaine is considered a class 4 felony. However, you are not alone. A skilled criminal defense lawyer from the Shah Law Firm can make a significant difference in defending against cocaine charges in Scottsdale.

read more

Can I Get a DUI on Private Property in Arizona?

DUI laws generally apply to public roads and highways but can also extend to private property in certain circumstances. The definition of “public highway or road” in Arizona includes any road, street, or highway that is open to the public for vehicular travel. However, the law does not explicitly exclude private property from its purview, which means that it is possible to be charged with a DUI on your own property or other private lands.

read more

Arizona’s Self-Defense Laws: Is Attacking an Intruder in Your Own Home Assault?

The Castle Doctrine is a legal principle that states that a person has the right to defend their home with deadly force against an intruder without having a duty to retreat. It’s a natural human response to want to defend oneself and one’s property in such situations. However, there are legal boundaries to what constitutes self-defense, and the consequences of going beyond these limits can be severe.

read more

Can I Still Get a DUI in a Self-Driving Car on Autonomous Autopilot?

Even with the presence of self-driving cars, you can still get a DUI if you’re caught driving behind the wheel when pulled over and found to be under the influence while operating the vehicle. Autonomous vehicles are designed to minimize human error but still require some level of human interaction, such as taking control when the vehicle cannot navigate a specific situation.

read more

Aggravated Assault After a Road Rage Incident: Navigating Arizona Laws and Legal Strategies

Road rage incidents can escalate quickly, leading to severe consequences for everyone involved. In Arizona, it’s not uncommon for such incidents to result in aggravated assault charges. While not every incident leads to criminal charges, it’s essential to understand the potential legal ramifications and how an experienced Phoenix criminal defense attorney from the Shah Law Firm can help.

read more

Felony Aggravated Assault on a Police Officer in Arizona

Assault on a police officer or other officer personnel in Arizona is a serious felony offense, classified under Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) 13-1204. In general, assault involves intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing physical injury or placing another person in reasonable apprehension of imminent physical injury. However, when the victim is a law enforcement officer, the penalties are often more severe, and the charges can be elevated to aggravated assault.

read more

Navigating Your 1st Marijuana Offense: A Comprehensive Guide About Arizona’s Marijuana Laws

Navigating marijuana laws in Arizona can be challenging, even though both recreational and medical use is now legal. If you’re facing your first marijuana offense, feeling anxious and uncertain about the next steps is normal. However, with the correct information and the assistance of a skilled DUI and criminal defense law firm like the Shaw Law Firm, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the legal process.

read more

From Accusation to Acquittal: The Benefits of Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney for Assault Charges

Being accused of assault can be a terrifying and overwhelming experience. The consequences of a conviction can be severe, including a criminal record, fines, probation, and even imprisonment. If you or someone you love is facing assault charges, hiring a skilled and experienced defense attorney who can help protect your rights and build a strong defense is essential.

read more

Domestic Abuse vs. Domestic Violence: Understanding Arizona Laws and Defending Against False Accusations

While the terms “domestic abuse” and “domestic assault” are often used interchangeably, there is a distinction between them. Domestic assault is any intentional or reckless act that causes physical injury to a household member. Domestic assault charges may also include the threat of physical harm. In contrast, domestic abuse charges may not involve physical harm, but they do involve emotional and psychological harm.

read more

DUI Facts: Can Cold Medicine or a Prescription Drug Affect a Breathalyzer?

Driving under the influence (DUI) isn’t just limited to the influence of alcohol; it also includes driving under the influence of medication or any other substance that harms your ability to drive safely. While many people assume that over-the-counter cold medicine and prescription antibiotics are safe to take before getting behind the wheel, the reality is that these medicines can also impair your driving abilities.

read more

we are here to help

Fill out the form below, or call us directly at (602) 560-7408 to schedule your free, one-on-one consultation. There is no obligation and all consultations are strictly confidential.

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

“I was totally impressed and grateful for the expertise and successful case Arja handled for me. She answered my calls immediately and saved me a lot of professional and personal heartache. Arja did a great job refuting the State’s evidence and convinced the Prosecutor that my chewing tobacco was a major issue in the case that the officer did not check.”

Arja Shah Law Firm Reviews
Thomas - Super Extreme DUI
Argued Police Stop Protocols and Reduced to a Fine

“Arja represented me for a DUI case in Scottsdale. I met with her immediately after being charged and she very quickly was able to speak to the prosecutor and get my charges reduced after my initial hearings. She was attentive and easy to talk to. She gets results.”

Arja Shah Law Firm Reviews
Jason - Scottsdale DUI
Felony Charges Reduced to Reckless Driving

“Arja was extremely knowledgeable and kept us up to date on the entire case. I would hire her and recommend her to anyone- although I hope I never need her help again! But if a problem arises I would be sure to call her!!”

Arja Shah Law Firm Reviews
Maggie - Mesa Super Extreme DUI
Super Extreme DUI Reduced to First Time Regular DUI

“Ms. Shah got my charges completely dismissed. She worked hard, was thorough, and took care of all the details. Seriously, hire her. It’s a complete piece of mind.”

Arja Shah Law Firm Reviews
R. Aguilera - Attempted Murder
Attempted Murder Charges DISMISSED

“During my recent DUI case and time spent working with Arja Shah, I can say I had an absolute positive Experience. She was there to represent me and handle my questions and concerns with ease. Thank you.”

Arja Shah Law Firm Reviews
Michael - Phoenix DUI Arrest
Felony DUI Charge Reduced to a Fine

“I endorse this lawyer. She is knowledgeable as well as up-to-date on the latest case law. She is one of the very few attorneys I would recommend to family or friends.”

Arja Shah Law Firm Reviews
Michael Pittman (Attorney Peer)

“First, Arja is a superb and energetic attorney who is always willing to listen and help out in client cases. Second, she works hard for your case to minimize or eliminate penalties for the charges you are facing. She has a good analytical mind and presents your case successfully. Third, she is approachable even outside work hours if the situation calls for it. Always punctual for meetings. Lastly, she is an affordable attorney in comparison to some big-name law firms where personalized and flexible service is almost impossible. The above review is based on my experience derived from her working on my case.”

Arja Shah Law Firm Reviews
T. McCarty- Extreme DUI Charge Possible 30 Days Jail
Reduced to Reckless Driving and a Fine

“Attorney Arja Shah took the time to compile letters from family members and show the Prosecutor that they lacked evidence to move forward with my case. Arja did what she said she would do and was there to help me. Outstanding Attorney.”

Arja Shah Law Firm Reviews
Andrea- Disorderly Conduct and Domestic Violence
Charged Dismissed

Considering the amount of charges I was facing I ended up with the minimum charges I could have received. If it wasn’t for Ms/Mrs. Shah, I would have had to given up everything. I will forever recommend to anybody in need…

Arja Shah Law Firm Reviews
Tyler Goodwill - DUI
Charges Reduced to Minimum
Click Here to Call Now