Committing a crime and being convicted is one thing. However, being arrested, charged, or falsely accused of a crime is an entirely different story. It can be stressful and overwhelming to be accused of something you did not do. Therefore, it is important to know what to do if you’ve been falsely accused of a crime in Flagstaff, AZ.
At Grand Canyon Law Group, we litigate a broad range of crimes, from simple misdemeanors to homicide. We take a non-judgmental and strategic approach to our cases, thoroughly challenging evidence and working with professionals like detectives, forensic scientists, and other legal professionals to help you reach the most optimal outcome. We are diligent in ensuring all accusations against you are based on truth.
Criminal Law in Arizona
In Arizona, crimes are typically categorized as misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors are less serious crimes than felonies and are also met with less severe consequences. There are three classes of misdemeanors, with class 3 being the least severe, and six classes of felonies, with class 6 being the least serious.
The criminal process in Arizona consists of seven main steps, which are:
- Arrest
- First appearance
- Preliminary hearing
- Arraignment/Charges
- Pretrial conference
- Trial
- Sentencing
If you are dissatisfied with your sentence or continue to maintain your innocence, you can appeal the court’s decision, in which you will want a lawyer present to help with the process.
For a free legal consultation, call 480-400-5555
Penalties for the Most Common Crimes in Arizona
Besides being classified as either misdemeanors or felonies, crimes in Arizona are categorized as either property crimes or violent crimes. Property crimes are the most commonly committed crimes in Flagstaff, Arizona, with 1,502 cases of larceny-theft being reported in the 2023 Flagstaff Annual Police Report. In general, the most commonly reported crimes in Flagstaff include:
- Homicide
- Sex offenses
- Sexual assault
- Robbery
- Aggravated assault
- Burglary
- Larceny theft
- Grand Theft Auto
With the exception of simple assault, violent crimes are often charged as felonies in Arizona and could mean serving 4 months to life in prison, depending on the severity of the crime and the historical record of the perpetrator. While burglary and grand theft auto are felony property crimes, larceny-theft is typically charged as a class 1 misdemeanor, which could mean spending up to 6 months in jail plus fines.
Drug crimes are considered offenses in Arizona, and the penalties associated with each offense depend on the type of drug involved, the amount, and whether there were aggravating factors.
Being Falsely Accused: What to Do
If you are accused of a crime, you were likely arrested and held in police custody before having a bond hearing, which could potentially release you from custody. Without the intervention of a lawyer, you could be in for a grueling process, so here are some steps to take if you are wrongly accused of a crime:
- Act fast: Do not delay in contacting a lawyer if you are arrested for a crime.
- Remain silent: Exercise your right to remain silent in all police interactions and avoid discussing your case with anyone except your lawyer.
- Keep your evidence: To prove you were wrongly accused, you will need evidence such as photos, clothing, correspondence, and even bank statements to strengthen your case.
- Demand a search warrant: Unlawful searches and seizures are a viable defense against criminal accusations.
- Remain calm and professional: You should avoid providing law enforcement or the prosecution with a reason to convict you. Remaining calm and professional and letting your lawyer take the driver’s seat may be paramount in proving your innocence.
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Reasons for Being Falsely Accused of Crimes
There are several reasons a person may be falsely accused of a crime, one of the most common being a mistaken identity. For example, in 2020, a Flagstaff man was able to file a claim against the Flagstaff Police Department for being falsely accused of selling LSD. Officers ignored evidence that absolved him of the crime, and he had to spend 30 hours in jail.
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FAQs
Q: Could You Go to Jail for False Accusations in Arizona?
A: You could go to jail if you make false accusations in Arizona, as it is considered a class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and $2,500 in fines. On the other hand, if someone wrongly accuses you of a crime, you could spend a short amount of time in jail while the case is being investigated unless you are able to post a bond or your lawyer can get your charges dismissed.
Q: How Do I Defend Myself Against False Accusations?
A: To defend yourself against false accusations, you will need a skilled Flagstaff criminal defense lawyer by your side. Without the counsel of an experienced criminal lawyer, you could make a mistake that could increase your chances of spending time in jail for a crime you did not commit. You will also need evidence to defend yourself that either legitimizes your alibi or generally proves your innocence.
Q: What Should You Avoid Doing If False Allegations Are Made Against You?
A: If false accusations are made against you, you should avoid discussing your case with anyone but your lawyer first and foremost. You should also avoid tampering with or destroying any evidence that may help your case. Without evidence, it is difficult to prove false accusations and bring the perpetrator to justice.
Q: How Do You Deal With Being Falsely Accused of a Crime?
A: To deal with being falsely accused of a crime, you will want to build a system of support, including your lawyer. Being falsely accused of a crime can be emotionally draining and devastating, with some crimes leading to a long time in prison. Therefore, you should create a support system of people who can not only help you with your case but also provide emotional and psychological support.
Contact a Skilled Criminal Lawyer Today
If you are falsely accused of a crime, do not try to handle your case alone. One misstep could mean the difference between serving life in prison and living your life freely. To help you secure the latter, our lawyers at Grand Canyon Law Group are prepared to defend you both inside and outside of the courtroom. Do not delay contacting our office today; your future may depend on it.
Call or text 480-400-5555 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
