Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chandler

Criminal Defense Attorney In Chandler, AZ

Being arrested or charged with a criminal offense is a highly stressful experience. A Chandler criminal defense lawyer can guide you through the criminal justice system, protecting your interests and advocating for your rights. With the support of a defense attorney, you are more likely to avoid the consequences of conviction or secure less severe penalties.

If you are arrested for any crime in the Chandler area, the first steps you take immediately following your arrest can influence the rest of your life in various unpredictable ways. While you are likely to be understandably concerned about the potential penalties you could face in sentencing, the reality is that a conviction can change your life beyond the scope of your penalties. A Chandler criminal defense lawyer is an invaluable asset in this situation.

Being arrested or being informed that criminal charges may be brought against you can be a terrifying experience. The prospect of criminal proceedings, fines, or even incarceration is frightening, and it is difficult to know how to proceed. The criminal justice system is complex and often stacked against the accused. It is essential to contact a Chandler criminal defense lawyer to represent you.

For a free legal consultation with a Criminal Defense lawyer serving Chandler, call 480-400-5555

Get an Experienced Chandler Criminal Defense Attorney With Grand Canyon Law Group

The law provides numerous protections for individuals accused of crimes, but you require an experienced attorney to effectively safeguard your rights and freedom. David Lish and Ryan McPhie at Grand Canyon Law Group are former Deputy County Attorneys with decades of combined experience handling thousands of criminal cases on both sides of the courtroom.

They have a unique insight into how criminal prosecution works in Arizona, as well as extensive knowledge of Maricopa County and Arizona courts. Our legal team is familiar with the system and can empower you to be proactive in your defense, taking full advantage of your rights. A Chandler criminal defense lawyer will provide the support you need during such an important time. 

In addition to the unique vantage point we have because of our experience on the prosecution’s side of the courtroom, our clients benefit from our expanded availability. We know that people facing major legal challenges often need support outside of typical business hours, so we allocate our time and resources to take care of our clients at any time of the day or night. Whenever you need us, we are there for you.

Chandler Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me 480-400-5555

Criminal Sentencing in Maricopa County

The Arizona Judicial Branch’s Judicial Data Report from 2024 states that there were 331,191 justice court filings in Maricopa County in the fiscal year 2024. In the entire state, there were nearly 94,000 misdemeanor and felony cases.

In the Superior Court for Maricopa County, 27,314 felony criminal cases and one misdemeanor criminal case were filed in fiscal year 2024. These criminal felony cases included more than 12,000 cases of controlled substance and drug paraphernalia possession and over 2,200 cases of aggravated assault.

In the same year, the Chandler Municipal Court handled 4,825 misdemeanor cases. There were also 3,167 criminal traffic cases filed, including nearly 1,400 driving under the influence (DUI) cases and 350 criminal speeding cases.

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Cases We Handle

When you are searching for a Chandler criminal defense lawyer to represent you, it is absolutely crucial that you choose a defense attorney who has proven experience handling cases like yours. Grand Canyon Law Group represents clients who have been charged with both misdemeanors and felonies. Below, we provide a brief description of these two classifications.

Misdemeanors are considered “lesser” crimes than felonies. You generally won’t be sentenced to prison time if convicted of a misdemeanor, but you may be sentenced to serve time in jail, as well as forced to complete probation and pay hefty fines. There are three classes of misdemeanors, with Class 1 being the most serious.

Felonies are considered more serious crimes, and often involve the potential of a prison sentence, even for a first-time offender or a non-violent offense. Felonies include dangerous crimes, which cause or could potentially cause injury or death to another person, as well as many non-dangerous crimes. As with misdemeanors, felonies are classified according to seriousness, with Class 1 being the most serious; there are six classes of felony crimes.

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Misdemeanor Charges

Do not make the mistake of assuming that facing a misdemeanor charge means your penalties will be mild, and do not assume that if you are charged with a felony, you are definitely going to jail. The average person cannot make fully informed decisions about their defense in any criminal case. Our team is ready to leverage our experience and professional resources for you, answer your most important legal questions, and guide you to a positive outcome.

We have an extensive professional record of successful criminal defense cases in the Chandler area and throughout the surrounding communities of Arizona. We represent clients who have been accused of many different offenses, including:

• Criminal assault is an offense that involves knowingly or recklessly causing injury to someone, knowingly putting them in reasonable fear of being harmed, or touching someone in a way meant to provoke them.
• Criminal traffic violations include reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident, excessive speeding, causing an accident resulting in death, and driving without a license.
• Domestic violence includes violent offenses committed against a spouse, family member, or household member with whom you have a close relationship.
• DUI, or driving under the influence, involving both alcohol and drugs, can be charged if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is over the legal limit, or if your BAC is under the legal limit but your driving was impaired.
• Drug crimes, including the possession, sale, growing, and transportation of drugs, are charged more severely if the drugs are considered more dangerous and/or if there is a large amount of the controlled substance.
• Sex crimes, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, sex offenses involving minors, and many other very serious offenses, carry substantial consequences like years in jail and lifetime registration as a sex offender.
• Theft crimes include extortion, theft of a motor vehicle, and gift card theft, as well as shoplifting.
• White collar crimes, which are non-violent financial crimes including forgery, money laundering, and telemarketing fraud, often require a convicted individual to pay restitution.
• Probation violations may seem minor, but can result in immediate imprisonment, affecting your life and freedom.

We also help our clients restore their civil rights once they complete probation, including the right to vote, to serve on a jury, to run for public office, and to possess firearms. Additionally, we help eligible clients have past convictions set aside, which is the closest thing to expungement that Arizona offers. This can help make it easier to get a job and increase the odds of qualifying for public housing.

Know Your Rights When You Are Arrested

It is very common for individuals charged with various crimes to make critical errors in the immediate stages following their arrests. Once you are placed under arrest, the arresting officer is legally required to read you your Miranda rights. This is a brief and concise explanation of the rights you have that come into play in this situation. If they fail to read you your rights, notify your attorney immediately at your first opportunity.

American citizens have certain Constitutional rights that remain in force even when they are being investigated, arrested, or tried for a crime. These rights support the pursuit of justice by putting safeguards in place that are meant to make the criminal justice process fairer for defendants.

The Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees the right to protection from unreasonable searches of your property or seizure of your property. The Amendment states that any searches or seizures of an American citizen’s property can only be made if there is probable cause to support such actions, and warrants for search or seizure must specifically describe the property being searched or taken into custody.

Other Rights You Have

The Fifth Amendment protects you from self-incrimination, so once you are placed under arrest, you have no obligation to answer any questions or provide any statements to the police, no matter what they may claim to the contrary. You should comply with their directions and not resist arrest, even if you know you have done nothing wrong. Stay silent until you are allowed to make your phone calls, and then contact a Chandler criminal defense lawyer.

The Sixth Amendment protects your right to legal counsel when you are charged with a crime. Securing experienced criminal defense representation immediately following your arrest provides the greatest chance of formulating an effective defense against the charges that have been filed against you. A good attorney can review the police report from your arrest, listen to your side of the story, and help you determine the most viable defenses you could employ.

People arrested for the first time are most likely to forget their constitutional rights. This is a very stressful and scary situation for anyone, and anyone in this position is likely to say something that could be later taken out of context and used against them. Remember that if you are ever arrested for any crime in Chandler, remain silent until you can speak with a Chandler criminal defense lawyer.

What Is the Legal Process for a Criminal Trial?

As stated, the legal process is complex and can vary based on individual circumstances. However, below we provide a brief description of the steps involved in most Arizona criminal proceedings.

• Initial appearance: Following your arrest, you will appear in court, where the judge will set the conditions of your release and schedule your arraignment. If bail is an option, your Chandler criminal defense lawyer can help you understand bail and the bonding process as it applies to your situation. This could enable you to leave police custody until your arraignment.
• Arraignment: The judge will read the crimes that you have been charged with and make sure that you understand the charges. You will enter a plea of guilty or not guilty at this time. Usually, defendants enter a not guilty plea so that their attorney can start the process of discovery and begin negotiations with the prosecution.
• Discovery: Discovery is the process during which the prosecution and the defense share their evidence with each other. When a person is accused of a crime, their legal counsel must be given access to any evidence possessed by the prosecution to give the defense a fair chance to build a compelling case.
• Plea bargaining: When a criminal case is filed by the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, it joins a long list of active cases. Plea bargaining provides an opportunity for the prosecution and the defense to assess the likely outcome of the case and reach a plea agreement before the case ever goes to trial. In a plea agreement, the defendant agrees to plead guilty to some or all of the charges in exchange for a more lenient sentence.
• Pre-trial conference: This is another opportunity for your lawyer to negotiate with the prosecution and work toward a resolution, which may include a change of plea, motion hearing, or trial. The court generally expects an update on the progress of the case during this hearing.
• Evidentiary hearings: In many criminal cases, the success or failure of the prosecution and the defense rests on the quality of the evidence each side is allowed to put forward. In an evidentiary hearing, both sides can challenge the admissibility of a certain piece of evidence.
• Trial: Most criminal cases are resolved before ever going to trial. However, if your case is one of the few that goes to trial, then this is the chance for your attorney to make your case before a judge (bench trial) or a jury of your peers (jury trial). Criminal court litigation is time-consuming, stressful, and beholden to strict procedures. Your attorney can help you approach every courtroom session with confidence.
• Sentencing: During the sentencing phase of a trial, the judge in the case determines the appropriate sentence for the crime. In a jury trial, the judge may consider the recommendations of the jury when deciding your sentence.
• Appeal: If you are convicted of the crime you are charged with, you can appeal the conviction or your sentence, or both, in the Arizona Court of Appeals. Your attorney can help you with the appeal process by bringing up any potential mistakes during the trial.
• Post-conviction relief: If an initial appeal is unsuccessful, you can apply for post-conviction relief. Sometimes, new evidence in a defendant’s favor is discovered after a trial. Post-conviction relief allows a convicted person to present new evidence, possibly exonerating them.

The process of a case will also depend on whether it is managed by the Criminal Department of the Maricopa Superior Court or the Chandler Municipal Court. It’s essential to collaborate with a legal team that has experience working with prosecutors and other court officials.

A good Chandler criminal defense lawyer can help you prepare for each phase of your case so you can approach your proceedings with confidence. If you did not commit the offense, your attorney’s goal will be to show that the prosecution cannot meet the burden of proof to convict you. If you broke the law, it is possible for the prosecution’s case to fall apart in various ways, but it is prudent not to expect this and to seek a lighter penalty if at all possible.

Criminal Offense Sentencing Guidelines in Chandler

Arizona’s sentencing guidelines establish mandatory jail sentences for many offenses, even when committed by people with no prior criminal record. Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 13 §702, outlines the suggested sentences for first-time offenders of various crimes.

The law uses a classification system that designates felonies as Class 1 through 6. Class 1 felonies are the most serious and include first and second-degree murder. First-degree murder is punishable by life imprisonment or death, and first-degree murder carries a sentence of 16 years to life imprisonment.

Class 6 includes the least serious felony offenses. Examples of Class 6 felonies include resisting arrest, aggravated DUI (more commonly charged as a higher, Class 4 felony), and possession of marijuana. The typical sentence upon conviction of a Class 6 felony is between six months and two years in prison for first offenders, and between one year and two and three-quarters years for repeat offenders.

Judges’ Discretionary Authority

It is important for a defendant to remember that while many crimes in Arizona entail non-negotiable mandatory minimum sentences, judges have broad discretionary power to customize a defendant’s sentence as they see fit. Aggravating and mitigating factors come into play in these decisions, with aggravating factors increasing the likelihood of severe penalties while mitigating factors work in the defendant’s favor and may encourage leniency in sentencing.

An experienced Chandler criminal defense lawyer can help their client make a more compelling argument to disprove allegations of aggravating factors, if possible, and to highlight potentially mitigating factors whenever possible.

Defense Strategies Against Criminal Prosecution

There are many strategies for defending against criminal charges. A good lawyer will deploy a personalized strategy for each criminal defense case in Chandler to combat allegations and make sure that the defendant’s rights are protected throughout the investigation and prosecution.

Successfully defending against a criminal charge in Chandler may require proving a mistake of fact, highlighting a problem with the evidence the prosecution has compiled against you, or proving a mistake of law, meaning some type of procedural misstep has occurred, and either the police and/or the prosecutor has compromised the integrity of the case against you. You may also need to prove a due process violation or a violation of your constitutional rights.

When you hire a criminal defense lawyer, they can look over the specifics of your case to determine what is the right defense. Every single criminal case is different, and the right defense strategy depends on the facts of your arrest and the case the prosecution has against you. Your attorney considers how to most effectively avoid conviction or minimize penalties. There may be options for alternative sentencing that limit the impact of a conviction on your life.

Proof Beyond a Reasonable Doubt

Prosecutors have the burden of showing a defendant is guilty—the defendant does not need to prove their innocence. Furthermore, the prosecutor must present evidence that sufficiently proves guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt”. This means that a prosecutor must present powerful evidence of guilt that leaves every member of a jury, or the judge, firmly convinced that the defendant is guilty of committing every element of the crime.

Grand Canyon Law Group criminal defense attorneys work on a defendant’s behalf to show that a prosecutor’s case is not strong enough to meet the “beyond a reasonable doubt” standard. When prosecutors believe they could have trouble meeting this burden, they often agree to a settlement on a lesser charge or may dismiss the charges entirely.

Plea bargaining is not an option for every defendant, but if a defendant knows they have broken the law and the prosecution has more than enough evidence to secure their conviction, plea bargaining may not only lead to swifter court proceedings but also a favorable outcome for the defendant. The prosecutor may exchange an immediate guilty plea for reduced and/or dropped

charges along with lighter sentencing. Your attorney can help you understand this process.

Violation of the Fourth Amendment

The Fourth Amendment to the Constitution protects citizens from unlawful or unreasonable search and seizure. Our criminal defense attorneys love to argue this issue. We always check to make sure that local law enforcement did not violate the defendant’s rights before, during, or after the arrest. This is often an area for argument and negotiation.

Law enforcement officers must have reasonable suspicion or probable cause to stop a person or search them and their belongings. Probable cause means that the officers must have enough basis, based on facts, that a crime was committed and that the individual might be involved in it.

Building a Case

Officers sometimes stop Chandler residents or conduct searches based on pretextual reasons rather than reasonable suspicion based on facts. Depending on the circumstances, this may be improper. If a police officer comes to your door asking to search your home, you do not have to give your consent unless they arrive with a warrant signed by a judge.

Similarly, you do not legally have to allow police to search your car if they ask to do so in the course of a normal traffic stop. For police to search your vehicle, they must have probable cause to do so. Some things that might constitute probable cause to search a vehicle include smelling alcohol or drugs, or being able to see illegal items from outside the car.

If a defendant’s attorney can show that an arrest or a search happened without probable cause or improperly, any evidence that the arrest or search produced will not be admitted into testimony and can even lead to a dismissal of the case.

Violation of Detainee Rights

Once an arrest has occurred, law enforcement must honor the detainee’s right to legal counsel and right against self-incrimination. They also may not abuse or harm the detainee in any way. A failure to respect these rights can result in charges being dismissed or never being filed in the first place. If the police violated the defendant’s rights, this compromises the integrity of a criminal case against the defendant at the outset.

Your Chandler criminal defense lawyer can help you determine how you can leverage any such violation in your case. You may not only have grounds to seek a case dismissal but also a claim for damages against the police department and/or state, depending on the severity of the incident and the severity of the effects.

Why You Need to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal defendants sometimes choose to represent themselves in court rather than to hire an attorney. However, there are numerous reasons why it is in your interests to hire a criminal defense lawyer with experience. Below, we discuss some of the most significant reasons.

• An attorney has the education and training to understand the complex legal process and to defend your rights, from the time that you are arrested until the case is concluded. Your situation is understandably stressful, and the mental and emotional strain of the situation may prevent you from making prudent decisions about your defense. Your attorney will also be familiar with case law, which could help you form more effective arguments in court.
• An attorney is experienced in negotiating with the prosecution, which may mean getting charges dismissed or reduced, resulting in less jail time, reduced fines, and less potential damage to your reputation. Plea bargaining is a complex process and is not available to every defendant. If this is an option in your case, however, you will need a seasoned attorney to help you capitalize on this.
• Even simple charges that seem like they can be successfully handled without an attorney may have a serious impact on your life if things go awry. Any criminal record has the potential to cause you to miss out on job opportunities, qualify for entrance into school or certification programs, and diminish your standing in your community.
• If you represent yourself at trial, you will be held to the same standard as a licensed attorney. Don’t expect the judge or jury to help you present your case, and don’t expect the prosecution to go easy on you simply because you are unrepresented.

Even if you think you can disprove the case against you or that the facts will show that you are innocent, many who attempt this quickly discover that this is not a realistic expectation.

While we cannot guarantee any particular outcome in your case, Grand Canyon Law Group has a successful track record in its criminal defense cases. We focus on advocating for favorable outcomes in terms of your freedom and future, as well as helping reduce the stress of the situation by providing explanations and options throughout the case.

How to Prepare for an Initial Consultation With a Criminal Defense Lawyer

While the FBI’s statistics showed that between 2022 and 2023, there was a 3% decrease in national violent crimes, there is still a consistent need for criminal defense lawyer support. To prepare for an initial consultation with a lawyer, it is important to gather any documents related to your case, including police reports, court notices, or bail paperwork. Write down a clear timeline of events and note any questions or concerns you have.

Be prepared to be open and honest, as your lawyer is there to help you, not judge. Bring your ID to the meeting and be ready to discuss your background. Understanding the charges and your rights is key, and preparation makes sure your meeting is productive and focused, and leads to a clear plan of action moving forward. A lawyer can help you from this initial meeting to your trial in court, which may be the Municipal Court on East Chicago Street in Chandler and beyond.

What Are the Next Steps After an Arrest in Chandler?

After an arrest, it is crucial to obtain legal representation as soon as possible. Once you are processed, you should get in contact with an attorney who can defend you against the charges you are facing.

Until then, invoke your right to remain silent. Many people think they can explain themselves and avoid arrest, but it is more likely that they will say something incriminating that can be used against them. By consulting an attorney, you can entrust your case to them and safeguard your rights.

FAQs

What Is the Difference Between a Criminal Justice Attorney and a Criminal Defense Attorney?

A criminal justice attorney works within the broader legal system, often as a prosecutor or in public service. They may help enforce laws and support the court process. A criminal defense attorney, on the other hand, represents individuals accused of crimes. Their role is to protect the rights of the accused and build a defense. While both work in criminal law, one focuses on upholding charges, and the other focuses on defending against them.

Can I Afford a Criminal Lawyer?

Many criminal lawyers offer different payment options to make their services more accessible. Costs can vary based on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Some offer flat fees, while others charge by the hour. It’s helpful to ask about payment plans or free consultations. Talking to a few lawyers can give you a better sense of what’s possible with your budget.

Why Would You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

You need a criminal defense lawyer if you’re accused of a crime. They understand the legal system and protect your rights. A lawyer can help explain charges, gather evidence, and build a strong defense. They speak on your behalf in court and aim to reduce penalties or get charges dropped. Even if the case seems minor, legal support can make a big difference. Having a professional on your side helps you navigate complex laws with confidence.

Who Is More Powerful, a Prosecutor or a Lawyer?

A prosecutor is a lawyer, but with a specific role. They represent the government and decide whether to file criminal charges. Their decisions can strongly impact a case. Defense lawyers work to protect the accused. While prosecutors have certain powers, like influencing charges, both sides play key roles. Power depends on the situation and how each lawyer uses the law. Neither is more powerful; they just serve different purposes in the justice system.

How Long Do Criminal Cases Take?

The time a criminal case takes can vary widely. Simple cases can resolve quickly, while complex ones take longer. Factors include the type of charges, court schedules, and whether the case goes to trial. Some cases settle early through plea deals, while others need months of preparation. Delays can happen due to evidence, legal motions, or witness availability. Each case is different, so timelines are not always predictable.

Speak With a Chandler Criminal Defense Attorney

Too often, overzealous law enforcement officers and prosecutors proceed as if a defendant is guilty rather than extending them the presumption of innocence. The right criminal defense lawyer will assert a client’s innocence when appropriate, always insist and make sure that proper procedures are followed, and seek dismissal or reduction of any charges that the prosecution is unable to prove beyond a reasonable doubt.

Do not trust in luck or assume that law enforcement will be persuaded of your innocence. Some people feel that a prosecutor will see it their way and provide a fair outcome. However, they are not on your side. The criminal justice system is an “adversarial system” by nature, and the prosecutor’s job is to convict you. You need a Chandler criminal defense lawyer advocating for you.

How Our Team Can Help

If you are charged with a crime in the Chandler, AZ area, Grand Canyon Law Group will provide you with a free initial consultation, review the details of your case, and discuss your options. If we agree to represent you, you may be eligible for a payment plan. We are committed to providing our clients with aggressive and compassionate representation and strive to take all necessary steps to assist them.

We understand how the prosecution works, and that provides us with a unique advantage. While we cannot guarantee a favorable result, we strive to protect our clients’ freedoms. Allow our former prosecutors to press every advantage and work toward a positive outcome in your case.

Call or text 480-400-5555 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form