Phoenix Criminal Defense Attorney

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Why Choose Phoenix Criminal Defense Lawyer Arja Shah?

The Shah Law Firm focuses exclusively on defending those charged with all types of criminal charges, from misdemeanor offenses to DUI and serious violent crimes. When you contact Arja Shah, you will understand her belief that everyone deserves a strong defense. Don’t take any chances when your future is on the line–you have too much to lose by facing criminal charges on your own.

If you are caught driving under the influence in Phoenix, Arizona, there may be some hard times ahead. Phoenix has some of the strictest DUI laws in the nation, set to discourage people from committing a crime in the city. The only thing that can help you get through this is a well-experienced lawyer.

 


Misdemeanors and Felony Charges in Phoenix

How Misdemeanors are Classified in Phoenix Arizona

There are 3 different class types of misdemeanors and a “petty” charge that does not require jail time, according to ARS § 13.601.

  • Class 1 Misdemeanor– jail time is up to 6 months and fines are $2,500 maximum
  • Class 2 Misdemeanor– jail time is up to 4 months and fines are $750 maximum
  • Class 3 Misdemeanor– jail time is up to 30 days and fines are $300 maximum
  • Petty Misdemeanor– no jail time and fines are $300 maximum

Penalties for Felony Convictions in Phoenix, Arizona

If you are convicted of a felony in Phoenix, Arizona, your punishment will depend on the class (1 through 6 where 1 is the worst) and if it is your first, second, or third offense.

Non-dangerous normal felony penalties are as follows:

  • First offense felony: sentenced to 2-8.75 years in prison, required to pay fines from $750 to $150,000– eligible for probation
  • Second offense felony- sentenced to 2.25-7.5 years in prison, required to pay fines from $750 to $150,000– not eligible for probation
  • Third offense felony- sentenced to 6-15 years in prison, required to pay fines from $750 to $150,000– not eligible for probation
  • If there was a weapon involved; a person is harmed, or if a threat to cause imminent harm were intended, charges will be raised from the non-dangerous normal felony status range and penalties will be doubled.

A felony in Phoenix ranges from armed or aggravated robbery to battery, which is also considered aggravated assault. Contact Shah Law Firm to get help reducing your penalties.


The Most Common Phoenix Criminal Defense is for DUI

Types of Phoenix DUI Charges

There are three types of DUI charges in Phoenix that are categorized by blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels.

  1. DUI involves a BAC level from 0.08 to 0.15 (0.04 for those with commercial driver’s licenses)
  2. Extreme DUI involves a BAC level from 0.15 to 0.20
  3. Super Extreme DUI involves a BAC level from 0.20 and up

Note: You can still get charged with a DUI with a 0.05 BAC if you appear to be intoxicated. In addition, underage drivers with any level of alcohol in their blood can get charged with Underage DUI.

Felony Aggravated DUI combines any DUI with other charges noted at the time of arrest, such as:

  • Having a passenger under 15 years old while driving under the influence
  • Having multiple DUIs within seven years
  • Driving under a suspended, restricted, or revoked license
  • Driving without an interlock device after being required to have one
  • Causing an accident due to driving the wrong way on a highway
  • Alcohol consumption influenced damages to people or property (accident)

Penalties for DUI Convictions

According to the Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 28 – Transportation, Chapter 4, Article 3, § 28-1381, a “DUI” is a class 1 misdemeanor that is subject to the following penalties.

Regular Misdemeanor DUI– First Offense:

  • 10 days in jail- 9 days can be suspended
  • Community restitution
  • Fines from $1,250
  • Successfully complete a traffic school course
  • If intoxicating liquor is involved, an ignition interlock device must be installed that is pursuant to section 28-3319.

Regular Misdemeanor DUI– Second Offense (another violation committed within 7 years):

  • 90 days in jail, 60 days can be suspended
  • Community restitution of at least 30 hours
  • Fines from $3,000
  • Successfully complete a traffic school course
  • If intoxicating liquor is involved, an ignition interlock device must be installed that is pursuant to section 28-3319.
  • Driver’s license revoked for 1 year

According to the Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 28– Transportation, Chapter 4, Article 3, § 28-1382, an “Extreme DUI” and “Super Extreme DUI” is a class 1 misdemeanor that is subject to the following penalties.

Extreme and Super Extreme DUI – “First Offense”:

  • Extreme DUI, 30 days in jail — super extreme DUI, 45 days in jail
  • Community restitution of at least 30 hours
  • Fines from $2,500
  • Successfully complete a traffic school course
  • If intoxicating liquor is involved, an ignition interlock device must be installed that is pursuant to section 28-3319.
  • Driver’s license revoked for 1 year

Extreme and Super Extreme DUI – “Second Offense” (another violation committed within eighty-four months):

  • Extreme DUI, 120 days in jail — super extreme DUI, 180 days in jail
  • Community restitution of at least 30 hours
  • Fines from $4,250
  • Successfully complete a traffic school course
  • An ignition interlock device must be installed that is pursuant to section 28-3319.
  • Driver’s license revoked

Felony Aggravated DUI:

According to the Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 28– Transportation, Chapter 4, Article 3, § 28-1383, an Aggravated DUI is a felony.

There are numerous factors to consider when determining aggravated DUI penalties, such as classifications that range from 6 to 1 where 1 is the worst level, whether this was the first, second, or third offense, other charges, BAC levels, and more.

Felony Aggravated DUI Penalties will include the following:

  • Jail time
  • Community restitution
  • Fines
  • Successfully complete a traffic school course
  • An ignition interlock device must be installed that is pursuant to section 28-3319.
  • Driver’s license revoked

Shah Law Firm can help get you a better outcome. For over 15 years, the law firm has been helping to reduce sentences and penalties in Phoenix, Arizona. Contact Shah Law Firm now to find out if your case can be dismissed.


Why Choose the Shah Law Firm?

Top Phoenix DUI Defense and Phoenix Criminal Defense Attorney Arja Shah Reputation is everything. Arja Shah has successfully represented and defended over 3,000 cases of people who’ve been charged with a crime. She has an outstanding track record when it comes to defending everything from misdemeanor DUI to serious felony charges. You deserve an attorney who believes in fighting for your rights inside the courtroom and out.

  • Experience with and Knowledge of Specific Judges and Prosecutors is Important
  • Affordable Rates without Sacrificing Quality Defense is Key
  • It’s Not Just Knowing the Law, It’s Also Knowing People and Compassion

Arja Personally Handles Each Case

Don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation today if you are facing jail or prison time as the result of a criminal charge.  Arja is known throughout Arizona as a dedicated Phoenix criminal defense lawyer that will fight on your behalf in an effort to have your charges reduced or dismissed.


Phoenix, Arizona Courts, and Jurisdictions

Downtown Phoenix Justice Court

When a person is arrested in Phoenix, by an officer of the Maricopa County Sheriff’s department or from the Arizona Department of Public Safety, with a criminal ticket, DUI, or other misdemeanor charges, their case will most likely be heard in the downtown Phoenix Justice court.

Phoenix City Court

The City Court deals with individuals arrested by the City of Phoenix Police.

Phoenix Municipal Court

The Phoenix Municipal Court is one of the busiest municipal courts in the nation. It handles class 1 misdemeanors with a maximum penalty of six months of jail time and $2,500 in fines that include civil and criminal traffic violations and non-traffic violations. The following are just some of the cases the Municipal Court handles:

  • DUI
  • Leaving the scene of an accident
  • Reckless driving
  • Vehicle registration and insurance violations
  • Moving violations, such as speeding, running a stop sign, and more
  • Unpaid parking tickets
  • Assault
  • Shoplifting
  • Child restraint violations
  • Prostitution
  • Indecent exposure
  • Trespassing
  • Orders of Protection
  • Harassment

Maricopa County Superior Courts

There are five courts clustered together, that include the Old Courthouse directly across the street. The South Court Tower and the Central Court building both handle criminal cases. The Old Courthouse hears civil cases and some juvenile cases, the East Court deals with civil and family law, and the West Court contains the probation office.


If Stopped by Law Enforcement in Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix law enforcement takes DUIs and other crimes very seriously; and therefore, will seek maximum penalties against you for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol on the city roads. Should an officer suspect you of drinking while driving a vehicle, he or she will stop you. Here are some of the things you should and shouldn’t do in this case.

First off, be kind and respectful to the officer, but do not answer any questions or say anything since you are not required to answer them. The only thing you have to do is show your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance, anything else can be used as evidence against you. Do not admit to anything, even if you did have a few drinks, and never try to make any deals or bribes with a police officer.

You should first turn on the light inside your vehicle and put your hands on the steering wheel where the police officer can see them. Wait until the officer asks for your paperwork or driver’s license before reaching for them.

If the police officer wants you to take any sobriety tests, you have the right to refuse since many people fail them anyway, even if they hadn’t been drinking and some test devices have been known to be flawed. Instead, ask for a release to have your blood test done at a hospital or you can also ask to contact your lawyer and call Shah Law Firm at (602) 560-7408 to personally speak to Arja.

It is important to note that refusing to be tested can result in the suspension of your driver’s license for one year or the officer can call a judge on-call to issue a warrant. In this case, you will have to submit to the test.


Defenses Your Attorney Can Use to Either Reduce your Charges or Dismiss Your Case

If you haven’t been inside a courtroom recently, you probably don’t know what takes place during a hearing today. Attorneys are the center of attention. They use legal jargon to explain the case, recite the laws, suggest or recommend minimum penalties that can be pursued, and jump through loopholes for a better outcome in their client’s favor.

Without the presence of an experienced Phoenix criminal defense attorney to represent you, defend your rights, translate the legal jargon, and consult with you, you could find yourself in a difficult situation. By not hiring a professional attorney, you wave these benefits and face getting the maximum penalties associated with your charges.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) set guidelines, for people that should not be given field sobriety tests, which includes people who…

  • Are 65 years old or older
  • Are around 50 pounds overweight
  • Have back, hip, ankle, leg, or knee injuries
  • Have disabilities that can affect their balance
  • Are wearing high heels with a heel height of 2 inches or higher

The following are just some reasons an attorney might use to dismiss your case…

  • There must be a valid reason to pull someone over and/or make an arrest.
  • People sitting in non-moving cars cannot be arrested for DUI.
  • Before an officer can administer the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) “eye test”, they must be certified.
  • An officer cannot arrest someone for refusing a field sobriety test.
  • The blood or breath testing device is flawed or faulty.
  • People cannot be denied their right to counsel.
  • Invalid evidence.

Arja Shah is a highly recommended criminal defense & DUI attorney in Phoenix, Arizona, with numerous attorney reviews from clients she has represented. Arja understands how critical and serious — even misdemeanor charges — can be in the state of Arizona, which is why she works closely with her clients to defend them and protect their rights.

With the Shah Law Firm available to help, everyone can have a fair trial with a quality defense attorney at their side that can get quite aggressive, if need be. The rates are very affordable and Arja accepts payment plans. Thus, the small price you pay to hire a lawyer is nothing compared to all the money they will save you in reduced fees. Contact the Shah Law Firm now.


Types of Criminal Cases We Handle

  • Domestic Violence
  • Assault Violent Crimes
  • Assault Violent Crimes
  • Criminal Damage
  • Criminal Fraud
  • Theft Charges
  • Alcohol Offenses

Attorney Arja Shah has Successfully Represented Thousands of Clients Throughout All Arizona Courts.


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
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