Being charged with criminal charges can be a terrifying experience. The uncertainty of what lies ahead can feel overwhelming, and the thought of losing your freedom is a heavy burden to bear. As a Tucson resident charged with a crime, understanding what comes next can help you regain some control. An experienced criminal defense attorney like Priscilla Frisby representing you can provide peace of mind and significantly improve your chances in court.

Learn what to expect when charged with a crime in Tucson and how having criminal lawyers in Tucson by your side can help protect your rights.

The Arrest: What Happens First?

Arrest is the first step in any criminal case. Whether you’re arrested on the spot or after an investigation, this can be an incredibly stressful experience. The police may take you into custody and transport you to a local detention center for processing, also known as “booking.” This is when your details, fingerprints, and photographs are taken.

What should you do if you’re arrested? Most importantly, stay calm and remember you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Invoking these rights immediately can significantly impact how your case unfolds. It is best to contact a criminal lawyer as soon as possible so they can start working on your defense.

Arraignment: The First Court Appearance

After being arrested, your first court appearance will typically be your arraignment. This is where you’ll formally hear the charges against you and enter a plea: guilty, not guilty, or no contest. It’s important to note that you should never make this decision alone. Without experienced legal counsel by your side, you may not be able to understand the court proceedings and the significance of each plea.

A qualified criminal lawyer in Tucson will guide you through this process, ensuring the right decisions for your case are made. They’ll review the charges, advise you on your plea options, and help you understand the potential outcomes based on your situation.

The Importance of Bail: Can You Stay Out of Jail?

Bail is often set during the arraignment or shortly after the arrest. This is the amount of bond required to be paid to ensure that you are available at the court whenever required for future proceedings. Bail can be set high, low, or even denied depending on the nature of the charges, your criminal history, and other factors.

This is another reason why having criminal lawyers in Tucson on your side is crucial. An attorney can negotiate for a lower bail amount or request that you be released on your recognizance without having to pay the bail amount. Once out of custody, you can help the attorney prepare for your case more effectively and maintain your personal and professional life while awaiting trial.

Pre-Trial Process: Building a Strong Defense

The pre-trial process begins once the arraignment is completed and you have been released on bail. During this time the attorney gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, and reviews the prosecution’s case. This is a critical period that involves building a strong defense.

A good defense attorney will look for shortcomings or gaps in the prosecution’s case, like the conduction of illegal searches, making improper arrests, or unreliable witness testimony. They will work towards building a strong strategy that will either weaken the prosecution’s evidence or prove your innocence. This phase also involves filing motions for suppressing evidence or dismissing the case altogether if there are grounds to do so.

When you work with criminal lawyers in Tucson like Priscilla Frisby, you’ll have a knowledgeable and experienced advocate digging deep into the details of your case, ensuring that no stone is left unturned.

Plea Bargains: Should You Accept One?

The prosecution may offer a plea bargain in some criminal cases. This is a deal where you agree to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence. While this might sound appealing, it’s not always in your best interest.

A skilled criminal lawyer in Tucson can help evaluate whether accepting a plea bargain is the right choice for you. In some cases, going to trial may be beneficial, while in some, accepting the deal offered by the prosecution could help reduce your chances of facing harsher penalties. Only an experienced criminal lawyer can provide the right guidance for making such a critical decision.

The Trial: What to Expect in Court

When your case goes to trial, the lawyer will present the facts of your case to a judge or jury. The judge or the jury will then determine whether you’re guilty or not guilty. The prosecution will present their evidence against you while your defense attorney will challenge the evidence provided, present your side of the story, and argue in your favor.

Going through a trial is a daunting experience, but a dedicated criminal lawyer in Tucson will fight tirelessly for your rights and your freedom. A well-prepared defense will make the biggest difference in the outcome of your case.

Sentencing: What Happens if You’re Convicted?

If the court finds you guilty, the next step is sentencing. At this time, the judge will determine the punishment for the crime. Depending on the severity of the offense, the punishment sentencing can range from fines and probation to prison.

Even at this stage, your attorney can advocate on your behalf. They can argue for lighter penalties, such as reduced jail time or alternative sentencing options like community service or rehabilitation programs. A good criminal lawyer in Tucson knows how to negotiate for the best possible outcome, even after a conviction.

Appeals: Not the End of the Road

If convicted by the court, it does not mean you cannot take any further steps. You have the right to file an appeal, challenging the conviction or sentence based on legal errors that occurred during the trial. An experienced attorney will help determine if you have grounds for an appeal and guide you through the appeal process.

Working with criminal lawyers in Tucson like Priscilla Frisby gives you access to professionals who know how to navigate the appeals process and will continue to fight for your rights.

Conclusion: Why You Need a Criminal Lawyer in Tucson

Being charged with a crime in Tucson can feel like the world is crashing down on you. The legal system is complex, and facing it alone is not an option you should consider. From the moment of arrest to possible appeals, having a knowledgeable and passionate criminal lawyer in Tucson like Priscilla Frisby on your side can mean the difference between freedom and facing serious consequences.

The stakes are high, but you don’t have to face this alone. If you’ve been charged with a crime in Tucson, consult an experienced criminal lawyer in Tucson today. Protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.