It is illegal to purposefully damage property that does not belong to you. Most Arizona property damage charges are relatively minor and are charged as a misdemeanor. If the value of property was more than $250 then one may be facing more serious felony charges. Even misdemeanor property damage charges, however, can have a negative impact on your future. If you have been charged with a misdemeanor for damaging property then do not make the mistake of thinking it is “no big deal.” Consulting with an attorney may protect you from accepting a plea deal that is not in your best interest. Contact our Phoenix office to speak with criminal defense lawyer Bretton Barber today.
Phoenix lawyer defending misdemeanor cases involving damage to public and private property
There are a number of incidents which result in criminal damage of property charges. These incidents include:
- Damaging the exterior of a private residence, such as breaking windows, egging the exterior walls, destroying plants, or graffiting a private home
- Graffiting or defacing public property, or a location of business
- Tampering with utility property, such as gas, water, or electric
- Parking your vehicle to purposefully block livestock from accessing water
The extent to which one is charged will often be based on the amount of damage caused. If one is charged with a class two misdemeanor then they may be facing a $750 fine and four months in jail. Most persons who are charged with damaging property are not career criminals. Many have either made a foolish mistake, have been misidentified, or did not act with intent when the incident occurred. Hiring an attorney who can guide you through the process, and ensure your rights are protected, is crucial.
Bretton Barber is a Phoenix criminal defense lawyer who aggressively protects those whom he represents. Bretton will immediately examine the evidence in the case and file any necessary Motions with the Court. These Motions may include requests to exclude in Court identification by witnesses, statements made to the police, as well as any physical evidence recovered from the accused’s person. Bretton will also investigate your matter thoroughly and will be prepared to challenge the state’s evidence. He will ensure that you understand each step of the process and that you are prepared at trial. He will also not take your case to trial needlessly; in matters where a plea bargain is in your best interests then he will work to ensure that you receive the best deal possible. In addition to Phoenix we represent defendants in other Maricopa County cities such as Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Gilbert. We also assist Pima County residents in Tucson. Call our attorney today.
Phoenix criminal attorney focusing on communication with clients
Most complaints against attorneys involve a lack of communication. Bretton Barber vowed that he would prioritize the lawyer-client relationship when he began his Phoenix firm. That is why he provides his clients direct lines of communication, including phone, email, and text messaging. Bretton answers client questions during work hours, on weekends, and during the holidays when necessary. He knows that this is a frightening time in your life and that you depend on your attorney to keep you up to date. This is a responsibility Bretton takes seriously. He will personally handle all matters to your case, will be at every hearing, and will be accessible to answer questions. Contact him today and schedule a free consultation.
We are also able to assist with other matters which often accompany property damage cases. These matters include charges for trespassing, defending against allegations of disorderly conduct, as well as gaining an expungement or conviction set aside.
