At Coolidge Law, we understand that pleading guilty might not be your first choice, but sometimes it’s your only choice. Even if you are innocent, the evidence may be stacked against you, or you might have prior convictions, which could sway a jury of your...
What is Forensic Science? When thinking about forensics, most of us imagine scientists gathering DNA evidence from a crime scene. However, there are several disciplines in the forensic field. The AAFS (American Academy of Forensic Sciences) includes eleven different types of forensics in its organization. These...
What Is Considered a Federal Crime? Federal crimes are violations of the U.S. Constitution and always overrule state law. The majority of criminal trials are held in state courts. For a crime to go to federal court, it must be of federal interest. See below for...
If you’ve ever been pulled over and had your car searched, or been arrested for a crime, you may be left wondering if probable cause was established. You might even want to know exactly what probable cause is, to begin with. What is Probable Cause? Probable cause...
In today’s world, people use computers for everything. From business deals to banking transactions to ordering groceries online, computers are a mainstay in our lives. This increased use of computers has sparked a rise in cyber crimes. In Arizona, if you are charged with a...
The act of killing another person is a very serious crime with very serious consequences. First degree murder is the highest level of homicide, and it will be punished harshly. If you find yourself facing a charge of first degree murder in Arizona, you will...
Under Arizona law, it is not illegal for a person to display their firearm when justifiably defending themselves against physical harm, or protecting themselves against attempted unlawful or deadly physical force. A woman from Phoenix stops for gas very late one evening on the way home...
Felonies are the most severe type of crimes, and they carry the toughest penalties. While most people understand that a felony crime conviction includes jail time and fines, they may not realize they can lose certain rights if they plead guilty to a felony. One...
Murder is the most serious offense you can commit in Arizona. Because homicide charges are such grievous offenses, they carry the highest penalties. If found guilty of an Arizona homicide, you may even face the death penalty under certain circumstances. In the state of Arizona, there...
Sexual assault is an extremely serious charge in the state of Arizona. A person found guilty of sexual assault faces not only a felony conviction on their record, but also placement on the sex offender registry. These penalties can impact a person's life forever, affecting...