There are two types of crimes – misdemeanors and felonies. Felonies are often considered “more serious” and involve prison sentences. Misdemeanors, by contrast, are considered “lesser crimes,” and are often charged when a person or the public has not been significantly harmed. Misdemeanors, however, carry long-term repercussions even though many do not take them seriously. These repercussions can include a maximum sentence of six months in jail, fines, restitution, and a criminal record. It is important that Phoenix residents recognize the gravity of the situation when charged with such offenses and not attempt to handle the matter on their own. Bretton Barber is a Phoenix criminal defense lawyer who gives cases the attention they deserve. Call our office today to speak with an attorney.
Aggressive criminal defense attorneys serving residents of Phoenix and the rest of Maricopa County
Arizona has three levels of misdemeanor charges. Each of these levels is meant to match the severity of the alleged crime.
- A class 1 misdemeanor is punishable by up to six months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
- A class 2 misdemeanor carry up to four months in jail and a $750 fine.
- A class 3 misdemeanor, by contrast, can result in a thirty day jail sentence and a fine of $500.
For certain crimes like DUI, although it is a class one misdemeanor, the fines can turn into well over $2,500 because of mandatory surcharges and penalties. It is crucial to gain an understanding of your situation even if you are charged with what you believe to be a low level misdemeanor. In addition to the criminal penalties, having a record can disqualify you from many jobs, leave you with a criminal background, make it harder to get into college, and you may lose the right to own a firearm in some instances. It is in your best interest to understand all your options before walking into a courtroom for the first time. This is why you should contact an attorney immediately if you have been charged with an Arizona misdemeanor.
Bretton Barber is a Phoenix criminal defense lawyer aggressively handling cases which are both large and small. Types of cases frequently handled by the Barber Law Group include:
- Misdemeanor DUI
- Simple Assault
- Domestic Violence allegations
- Petty Theft
- Disorderly Conduct
- Criminal Damage of Property
- Trespassing
We will immediately put a plan in place when you retain our office. This plan will include obtaining the arrest reports, identifying potential witnesses, viewing the scene of the incident, and demanding additional evidence from the prosecutors if necessary. This approach allows Bretton to determine whether witnesses are reliable, and to file any Motions necessary to correct violations of your Fourth or Fifth Amendment rights. The Barber Law Group’s first goal is always to gain you a dismissal. If such an outcome is not realistic then Bretton will ensure that your interests are protected as part of any plea offer you may accept. It is important to have an experienced attorney handle the plea bargaining process where you can hopefully avoid jail time and possibly enter into a diversion program. We recognize this is a serious time in your life and will guide you through the process. Call today to speak with an attorney. 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.
Phoenix criminal defense lawyer who remains in regular communication with his clients
It is impossible for an attorney to do their job without having a strong channel of communication with their client. Bretton utilizes phone, email, and text messaging to stay in touch with clients and answer questions, in order to obtain the information he needs to get the results one needs. Bretton is available to answer questions both during business hours and during weekends and holidays when necessary. He understands that this is a stressful time in your life and that it is important for you to be able to get your questions answered immediately. Bretton prides himself on his honest approach with clients – he does not sugar coat the facts of your case and will work hard to win you the best possible outcome. If you have been charged with a misdemeanor then you need a Phoenix attorney who is on your side.
Contact Bretton today and schedule a free consultation. We are also able to help with issues which arise from charges such as professional license suspensions and the appeal of a professional license hearing.
