Facing a criminal charge in Scottsdale, AZ, can be frightening. Whether you’ve been arrested, face an investigation, or have already been charged, your future is at stake. Criminal charges can have serious consequences and a lasting impact on your personal and professional life.
Fortunately, the experienced Scottsdale criminal defense lawyers at Mushkatel, Gobbato & Kile, P.L.L.C., are here to help. We understand the high stakes involved and will fight to protect your rights and build a strong defense, providing you with the reassurance you need during this challenging time.
Don’t let a criminal charge define your future. Visit our testimonials to see how we’ve helped others, or contact us today to discuss your case.
What Types of Cases Does a Scottsdale Criminal Defense Lawyer Handle?
Criminal charges can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Each offense carries penalties and defense challenges. At Mushkatel, Gobbato & Kile, P.L.L.C., our Scottsdale criminal defense lawyers have extensive experience handling a wide variety of criminal cases, including:
- DUI
- Assault, murder, and other violent crimes
- Sex crimes
- Theft and property crimes
- Drug offenses
- Expungements and record sealing.
Every case is unique. The right defense strategy will depend on the specific facts of your situation.
What Are Some Possible Penalties for a Criminal Charge in Scottsdale?
Penalties for Scottsdale criminal convictions can vary. They depend on several factors. However, misdemeanors tend to carry lighter penalties than felonies, which often carry prison time.
Misdemeanor convictions are grouped by class from Class 1 (most serious) to Class 3 (least serious). A person convicted of a misdemeanor typically faces a maximum of 180 days in jail. Many convictions result in probation-only sentences.
Felonies in Arizona are also grouped by class. They range from Class 1 to Class 6. Like misdemeanors, Class 1 felonies are the most serious. Class 6 felonies are the least severe. Depending on the specific charge and its class, punishments can be as harsh as life in prison or the death penalty.
Aside from jail or prison time, other punishments may include:
- Fines and fees
- Probation
- Community service
- Diversionary or treatment programs.
Convictions result in a permanent criminal record, affecting your ability to secure employment and housing. You may lose the right to vote until your sentence is complete. If convicted of a felony, you could also lose your right to carry a firearm.
Working with a Scottsdale criminal defense attorney is crucial, as so much is at stake. A skilled attorney can challenge the evidence against you, build a strong defense, and work to minimize or dismiss the charges.
What Should I Do If I Am Accused of a Crime in Scottsdale?
When you’re accused of a crime, your immediate actions can greatly impact your case. Here’s what you should do to protect your rights and future:
- Stay calm and silent. Do not resist arrest. Stay calm and politely refuse to consent to any searches. Law enforcement may search you or your property, but your attorney will address that later. Do not answer any questions except to provide basic personal information. Tell law enforcement you’re invoking your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney.
- Remember, the sooner you hire a criminal defense lawyer, the better. Early legal intervention is key to protecting your rights and building a strong defense, empowering you to take control of your situation. When you work with Mushkatel, Gobbato & Kile, P.L.L.C., we’ll help you understand your charges and what to expect.
- Save or gather evidence. If you have evidence that may exonerate you, preserve it for your attorney. If there are witnesses who can support your version of events, such as providing an alibi or eyewitness testimony, provide their contact information.
- Avoid talking about the case. Finally, avoid talking about your case to anyone but your attorney. It’s imperative to avoid posting on social media. Even if your posts are harmless, they could be misinterpreted. It’s better to avoid social media entirely until your case has concluded.
While being accused of a crime can be scary, having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side is the best way to reduce or dismiss your charges.
How Can a Scottsdale Criminal Defense Lawyer Help Me with My Case?
Mushkatel, Gobbato & Kile, P.L.L.C., offers decades of combined experience, a small-firm personal approach, and large-firm resources. Our Scottsdale criminal defense lawyers have successfully handled numerous cases, achieving favorable outcomes for our clients. When you call our firm, we’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you understand potential outcomes.
Our lawyers start by reviewing charges and investigating the case thoroughly. Our goal is to identify and attack weaknesses in the prosecution’s case so we can negotiate reduced charges or dismissals. We’ll be ready to take your case to trial when necessary. We’ll keep you updated throughout the process so you always know what’s happening and what to expect.
What Are Some Possible Defenses for a Criminal Charge?
Every case is unique. Your defense will depend on the specific circumstances involved. Some common defenses include:
- Lack of evidence
- Procedural errors by law enforcement or the prosecution
- Self-defense
- Duress
- Mistaken identity
- Alibi
- Entrapment
- Constitutional violations.
Our lawyers will work to identify all possible defenses and build the strongest case on your behalf.
Can I Have a Charge Expunged?
Expungement, or clearing your criminal record, provides a chance for a fresh start. By getting an expungement, you can improve your job and housing opportunities, among other positive results, giving you hope for a brighter future.
However, not every conviction is suitable for expungement. Arizona law provides which charges cannot be expunged. Courts will also consider factors like whether you have prior convictions, your cooperation with sentencing and probation, the victim’s input, and more. The best way to determine whether you’re eligible for expungement is to contact a Scottsdale criminal defense lawyer.
Contact a Scottsdale Criminal Defense Attorney Today
When you’ve been accused of a crime, you don’t have to face the legal system on your own. Mushkatel, Gobbato & Kile, P.L.L.C., can offer criminal defense services for felonies, misdemeanors, expungements, and more. Find out how we can help you by contacting our firm today. Don’t wait, take the first step towards protecting your rights and future.
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