Property crimes are just what they sound like—crimes against someone else’s property. In fact, property crimes are the most common crimes in Arizona. This category includes acts like theft, robbery, burglary, vandalism, trespassing, and more. And depending on the circumstances, property crimes can be charged...
Duress is a legal defense that can be used to justify criminal actions. It argues that if someone is ever forced to commit a crime, they should not be held responsible. For example, say that Karen was repeatedly threatened with physical harm unless she used her...
Entrapment happens when a law enforcement officer uses deceptive means to convince a citizen to commit a crime. In Arizona, entrapment can be used as an affirmative defense in criminal cases. Using this type of defense can be a complicated process, and you’ll need a...
Yes. You can be arrested for using physical or deadly force in an attempt to defend another person, even if no one was harmed. While you may have had the right intentions, you still broke the law. However, depending on the circumstances, you may not...
The holidays are a time for cheer, family, and friends. For many people, their celebrations also include drinking. In fact, there is usually a significant increase in drunk driving accidents and DUI charges during the holiday season. Driving under the influence of alcohol or another substance—including...
When a lawyer uses an affirmative defense, they argue that the defendant’s guilty plea should be lesser or non-existent due to the extenuating circumstances. Even though the defendant admits their role in the crime, because of the situation they should not be held responsible for...
If you decide to go to trial rather than take a plea deal, the next step is choosing how to defend yourself. There are several routes you can take, from proving a lack of evidence to declaring a violation of constitutional rights. Your lawyer will...
We aren’t talking about accidentally putting your wallet through the washing machine. Money laundering is the act of disguising the proceeds of criminal activity. It is a serious crime and it comes with some significant consequences. In Arizona, money laundering is always a felony, so...
Arizona has strict laws regarding criminal convictions and the right to own and operate a firearm. However, your right to own a firearm can be restored in certain circumstances. In Arizona, all felony convictions and some misdemeanor convictions mean losing your Second Amendment right to...
In Arizona, any sexual contact with a minor by someone over the age of 18 is considered statutory rape. Minors are not legally allowed to give consent. Which means sexual contact could mean serving time in federal prison and having to pay steep fines, fees,...