Goodyear Criminal Lawyer

Few things are more unsettling than being accused of a crime, especially when you have never been in trouble with the law before and suddenly find yourself facing a process that feels confusing, fast-moving, and, in many cases, frightening. Fortunately, those facing criminal charges in Goodyear do not have to go through the process alone. Contact an experienced and highly-skilled Goodyear criminal defense lawyer from The Weingart Firm, PLLC for a free consultation today.

Criminal Defense Lawyer Serving Clients in Goodyear, Arizona

Our Goodyear criminal defense lawyer handles a wide range of charges on behalf of our clients, including the following:

• DUIs
• Drug Crimes
• Domestic Violence
• Violent Crimes
• Juvenile Offenses
• Gun Crimes
• Theft Crimes
• Assault
• Sex Crimes
• White-Collar Crimes

How Criminal Charges Affect Your Record

One of the most common concerns people have, and understandably so, is how a criminal charge will affect their record, both now and in the future. The truth is that even a relatively minor offense can follow a person longer than they expect, particularly when background checks are involved.

Employers, landlords, and licensing boards throughout the Valley of the Sun routinely review criminal histories, and even a misdemeanor conviction can raise questions that make everyday things, such as finding housing or securing certain types of employment, more difficult than they otherwise would be. Some of the ways a criminal record may affect a person are as follows:

• Difficulty passing employment background checks
• Obstacles when applying for housing or professional licenses
• Increased insurance costs in certain situations
• Loss of certain civil rights in more serious cases

Arizona law does allow some convictions to be set aside, and record sealing may be available in certain circumstances, but these remedies are not automatic and must be requested through the court, which is one reason many people choose to seek legal guidance early rather than waiting until after a case has already concluded.

Misdemeanors vs. Felonies in Arizona

In Arizona, misdemeanors are generally considered less serious offenses and are often handled in municipal or justice courts. These charges may still carry penalties, including jail time, fines, probation, or mandatory classes, and while they are less severe than felonies, they should not be taken lightly, as repeat offenses or certain aggravating factors can lead to harsher consequences.

Felonies, on the other hand, are prosecuted in Superior Court and carry significantly more serious potential penalties, including prison sentences, extended probation, and long-term consequences that may affect civil rights, employment opportunities, and other aspects of daily life for years to come. When comparing misdemeanors and felonies, several differences are worth understanding:

• Felony cases typically involve more complex procedures and longer timelines
• Potential penalties are substantially greater in felony matters
• Felony convictions often carry longer-lasting collateral consequences
• Certain felony offenses may involve mandatory sentencing requirements under Arizona law

Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Goodyear, Arizona

If you’re accused of a crime, we’re here to help. Contact a Goodyear criminal defense lawyer from The Weingart Firm, PLLC for a free, no-obligation consultation today so we can get started working on your case.