There are two ways that courts in Arizona interpret the law. Statutory law follows the letter of the law, while common law is based on previous rulings. In fact, an understanding of common law frequently helps defense attorneys build a stronger case. The term “common law”...
Plea deals, plea bargains, or negotiating a plea—no matter how you phrase it, these terms all refer to agreements between the prosecution and the defendant. Accepting a plea deal can help you avoid a harsh sentence or a costly trial, but it does mean a...
In Arizona, an assault can be either a misdemeanor or a felony. It all depends on the circumstances of the case. The charges will vary according to factors like the severity of the assault, whether there was a weapon involved, the age of the victim,...
Arizona has strict laws about trafficking in weapons, ammunition, and illicit drugs. Human trafficking has serious penalties as well. In fact, the penalties for trafficking crimes all carry prison sentences. All of the crimes associated with trafficking in drugs, weapons, or humans are felonies. Being convicted...
How does parole work in Arizona? Arizona does offer parole - it’s an opportunity for people who are incarcerated to spend less time in prison. This program is intended to give those who have been charged with a crime the chance to prove that they...
To convict someone of a crime in Arizona, the prosecution must meet a burden of proof. This includes proving that the defendant’s actions meet the definition of a crime. In criminal law, a crime can be broken down into four different elements: criminal acts, criminal...