How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Arizona?
Wondering how long a DUI stays on your record in Arizona? Learn about criminal records, driving records, and expungement options. DUI on Your Criminal Record In Arizona, a DUI conviction does not automatically disappear. DUI convictions remain on your criminal record...
How a Criminal Record Affects Employment in Arizona
A criminal conviction can create barriers to jobs, but Arizona offers protections and options for mitigation. At the Law Offices of T. M. Allen, we help minimize records through expungement, sealing, or record-set-aside. This post explores impacts, background...
Ignition Interlock Device Requirements in Arizona
After a DUI conviction in Arizona, getting behind the wheel again often means installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)—a breathalyzer connected to your vehicle's ignition system. At the Law Offices of T. M. Allen, we help clients navigate IID mandates,...
Drug Crime Charges in Arizona: Possession, Sales, and Trafficking Explained
Arizona takes drug offenses seriously. Whether the charge involves marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, prescription drugs, or fentanyl, the penalties can range from misdemeanor probation to years in state prison. Understanding the classification of your charge is...
Extreme DUI vs. Super Extreme DUI in Arizona: Penalties and Defenses
Arizona has some of the toughest DUI laws in the country. If you’re charged with an Extreme DUI or Super Extreme DUI, the penalties increase quickly—and jail time is often mandatory. Understanding the difference between these charges is critical if you’re facing DUI...
Shoplifting Charges in Arizona: Understanding the Law and Your Rights
Shoplifting is a common yet serious offense in Arizona, often stemming from a moment of poor judgment but carrying significant legal consequences. At the Law Offices of T. M. Allen, we specialize in criminal defense and have helped countless clients navigate these...
Felony vs. Misdemeanor in Arizona: What’s the Difference?
Criminal offenses in Arizona are categorized as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on severity. This distinction affects sentencing, future rights, and life opportunities. What Is a Misdemeanor in Arizona? Misdemeanors are less serious crimes punishable by:...
First-Time DUI in Arizona: Penalties, Jail Time, and Defense Options
A first DUI arrest is overwhelming—but it’s also the best opportunity to minimize damage. Penalties for a First-Time DUI A standard first-time DUI (BAC under 0.15%) includes: Minimum 10 days in jail (9 may be suspended) Fines and fees over $1,500 Alcohol screening and...
Domestic Violence Charges in Arizona: What You Need to Know Immediately
Domestic violence charges in Arizona move quickly — often within hours of an arrest. Many people are surprised to learn that “domestic violence” is not a separate crime, but rather a designation attached to certain offenses when the alleged victim has a qualifying...
Assault Charges in Arizona: Simple Assault vs. Aggravated Assault
Assault charges in Arizona range from misdemeanor offenses to serious felonies carrying years in prison. The difference often depends on the severity of injury, the alleged victim, and whether a weapon was involved. What Is Assault Under Arizona Law? Under A.R.S. §...
Can a Felon Own a Firearm in Arizona?
Felons in Arizona face strict firearm restrictions, but restoration is possible. The Law Offices of T. M. Allen can assist with a restoration of your rights. The Law on Felons and Firearms Under A.R.S. § 13-3101 and federal law (18 USC § 922), felons are "prohibited...
Criminal Trespassing Charges in Arizona: Degrees, Penalties, and Defenses
Trespassing might seem minor, but in Arizona, "criminal trespass" charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies, carrying jail time, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. At the Law Offices of T. M. Allen, we defend clients against trespassing...
Is Weed Legal in Arizona?
Yes, marijuana, or weed, is legal in Arizona for adults 21 and older. That has been the case since Arizona voters passed Proposition 207, also known as the Smart and Safe Arizona Act, in November 2020. Both recreational and medical marijuana are legal under state law....
What is a Marijuana DUI in Arizona?
Learn about Marijuana DUI Arizona A lot of people in Tempe assume that because marijuana is legal in Arizona, they cannot get a DUI for it. That is not how it works. Marijuana legalization did not change Arizona’s DUI laws. You can still be arrested, charged, and...
Interlock Requirement in Arizona: What You Need to Know After a DUI
If you have been charged with a DUI in Tempe or anywhere else in Arizona, one of the penalties you are almost certainly going to face is an ignition interlock device requirement. It does not matter if it is your first DUI offense. Arizona law is unusually strict about...
Is a DUI a Misdemeanor in AZ?
If you or someone you care about was just arrested for a DUI in Tempe, one of the first questions you probably have is: how serious is this? Is a DUI a misdemeanor or a felony in Arizona? The honest answer is that it depends on the situation. Most DUIs are...
What is an arraignment hearing?
An arraignment hearing in Arizona is a key step in the criminal process where the court officially tells the defendant what charges they face. At this hearing, the defendant also enters a plea, saying whether they are guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This is usually...
ARS Resisting Arrest: What It Is and How to Defend Against It
Resisting arrest in Arizona is a serious offense that can have lasting effects on your life. Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-2508, resisting arrest happens when someone tries to stop a police officer from making a lawful arrest, either by using force or other...
Is Pushing Someone Assault in Arizona?
When it comes to pushing someone in Arizona, many people wonder if it counts as assault under the law. The short answer is yes, pushing someone can be considered assault if it is done knowingly or intentionally with the purpose to injure, insult, or provoke that...
Signs that an Arizona DUI case is weak
Facing a DUI charge in Arizona can be stressful, but not every case is strong. Many DUI cases have weaknesses that could affect the outcome in your favor. Signs that an Arizona DUI case is weak often include illegal traffic stops, errors in field sobriety tests, and...
Do you have to identify yourself to the police in Arizona?
If you’re stopped by police in Arizona, you might wonder, "Do I have to identify myself?" In Arizona, the law requires you to provide your name or show identification if an officer has reasonable suspicion that you are involved in criminal activity. This means police...
What is racketeering in Arizona?
Racketeering in Arizona involves a series of illegal acts carried out as part of an ongoing criminal enterprise. It covers crimes like extortion, fraud, gambling, and even more serious offenses such as kidnapping or homicide, all linked together by a pattern of...
What happens when you go to court for shoplifting in Arizona?
Going to court for shoplifting in Arizona can be a stressful experience, and it’s important to know what to expect. When you appear in court, the judge will review the details of your case, including the value of the items involved and whether it’s your first offense....
Can I refuse a breathalyzer in Arizona?
Can You Refuse A Breathalyzer In Arizona? Refusing a breathalyzer in Arizona has serious consequences that many drivers don’t fully understand. When you say no to the test, the state takes immediate action against your driving privileges, even if you haven’t been...
What Is the Legal Alcohol Limit in Arizona?
Understanding the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Arizona is important for anyone who drives in the state. In Arizona, the legal BAC limit for drivers aged 21 and older is 0.08%. If a driver’s BAC is at or above this level, they can face DUI charges,...
Reckless driving first offense in Arizona: What to know
Getting charged with reckless driving in Arizona can be scary and overwhelming, especially if it's your first offense. Many people don't realize that reckless driving isn't just a traffic ticket – it's actually a criminal charge that can have serious consequences for...
Can an Arizona Police Officer Search Your Car Without a Warrant?
Getting pulled over can be stressful, especially when an officer wants to search your vehicle. Many Arizona drivers wonder if police can look through their car without getting permission from a judge first. Yes, Arizona police officers can search your car without a...
What Happens If You Violate Probation in Arizona?
Getting charged with a probation violation in Arizona can feel overwhelming and scary. Many people don't realize how serious these violations can be or what might happen next. If you violate probation in Arizona, you could face consequences ranging from a warning to...
What are the Arizona trespassing laws?
Property rights matter a lot in Arizona, and the state takes them seriously. Whether you accidentally wander onto someone's land or intentionally enter a restricted area, you could face criminal charges that affect your future. Arizona divides trespassing into three...
What are the consequences of violating an order of protection in Arizona
Breaking an order of protection in Arizona carries serious legal penalties that can change your life. Violating an order of protection is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Arizona, which means you could face up to six months in jail, fines up to $2,500, and immediate arrest....
How to get an order of protection dismissed or modified in Arizona
If you or someone you know has an order of protection in Arizona, you might wonder if it can be changed or removed. Orders of protection can feel overwhelming, especially when circumstances change or when you believe the order was issued unfairly. To get an order of...
How do restraining orders work in Arizona?
Being served with legal papers or needing protection from someone can be scary and confusing. Many people don't know where to start or what their rights are. At the Law Offices of T. M. Allen, we help people understand the legal process every day. In Arizona, a...
What is Shoplifting by Concealment?
Shoplifting isn't just about slipping items into a pocket and walking out. Many people don't realize that simply concealing merchandise while still in the store can be considered shoplifting in most states. Shoplifting by concealment occurs when someone hides...
Will you go to jail for a 2nd offense DUI in Arizona?
Getting a second DUI in Arizona is a serious matter. Many people worry about jail time when facing their second offense. If you get a second DUI in Arizona within seven years of your first one, you will go to jail for at least 30 days. The law requires a minimum...
Can assault with a deadly weapon charges be dropped in Arizona?
Facing assault with a deadly weapon charges in Arizona can be frightening and confusing. These serious charges fall under Arizona Revised Statute (ARS) §13-1203 and §13-1204, which outline different circumstances that can lead to aggravated assault charges when a...
Common Weapon Charges in Arizona
Arizona law treats weapons offenses very seriously. These charges can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies depending on the circumstances. Common weapons charges in Arizona include unlawful possession, carrying a weapon under the age of 21, misconduct involving...
What is an Undesignated Felony in Arizona?
In Arizona, many people facing criminal charges may hear the term "undesignated felony" but not understand what it means. An undesignated felony is a special type of Class 6 felony that gives defendants a chance at a better outcome. A Class 6 undesignated felony...
Are Aerial Fireworks Legal in Arizona?
If you've ever wondered about lighting up the Arizona sky with aerial fireworks, you should know the rules before planning your celebration. Arizona laws are clear on this topic. Aerial and exploding fireworks are illegal for consumer use in Arizona and can lead to...
What is considered criminal harassment in Arizona?
In Arizona, criminal harassment is defined as intentionally or knowingly bothering someone through specific actions directed at them. A person commits harassment in Arizona when they engage in conduct that would cause a reasonable person to feel seriously alarmed,...
What is the difference between assault vs aggravated assault in Arizona?
If you're facing assault charges in Arizona, understanding the difference between simple assault and aggravated assault is crucial. These two charges carry very different penalties and consequences that could impact your future. In Arizona, simple assault is a...
What counts as assault in Arizona?
In Arizona, assault doesn't always require physical contact. The state defines assault in three distinct ways under ARS 13-1203. A person commits assault by intentionally causing physical injury to another person, intentionally placing someone in fear of harm, or...
What Is The Charge For Switching Price Tags In Arizona
Switching price tags to pay less for merchandise is a form of retail fraud that can result in serious legal consequences in Arizona. This deceptive practice involves deliberately altering or replacing price tags to obtain items at a lower cost than their actual retail...
What is a reckless driving ticket in Arizona
A reckless driving ticket in Arizona represents more than just a simple traffic violation. When drivers operate their vehicles with disregard for the safety of people or property, they face serious legal consequences. Under Arizona law (ARS 28-693), reckless driving...
Destruction of Property and Criminal Damage in Arizona
Property destruction carries serious legal consequences in Arizona. Under state law, these acts fall under the criminal damage statute ARS § 13-1602, which encompasses various forms of property damage and defacement. A person commits criminal damage in Arizona by...
What is shoplifting by asportation in Arizona?
Shoplifting by asportation occurs when someone knowingly moves or carries away merchandise from its display location within a store with the intent to steal it. In Arizona, this common form of retail theft falls under A.R.S. 13-1805, which outlines specific elements...
Arizona DUI Sentencing: What to Expect
Arizona takes a tough stance on driving under the influence. The state's DUI laws impose significant penalties, even for first-time offenders. Anyone facing a DUI charge in Arizona should be prepared for potential jail time, fines, license suspension, and mandatory...
What is a Class 3 Felony in Arizona?
In Arizona's criminal justice system, felonies are categorized into different classes based on their severity. Class 3 felonies sit near the top of this hierarchy, representing serious offenses that carry significant penalties. A Class 3 felony in Arizona typically...
How Long is a Life Sentence in Arizona?
Life sentences in Arizona carry significant weight within the state's criminal justice system. The duration of these sentences can vary based on the specific circumstances of the crime and the terms set by the court. In Arizona, a life sentence typically means 25...
Grand Larceny vs Petty Larceny in Arizona
Arizona law distinguishes between grand larceny and petty larceny based on the value of stolen property. Petty larceny, often called petty theft, involves property valued under $1,000. It's classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying potential penalties of up to 6...
What is a dangerousness hearing in Arizona?
In Arizona's criminal justice system, a dangerousness hearing serves a crucial purpose. This proceeding determines whether a defendant poses a significant threat to public safety and should be held without bail before trial. The court evaluates evidence presented by...
How Long Does the State Have to File Charges in Arizona?
Arizona's legal system imposes time limits on filing criminal charges, known as statutes of limitations. These time frames vary depending on the severity and type of offense committed. For misdemeanor offenses in Arizona, prosecutors generally have 1 year to file...
Can Domestic Charges be Dropped in Arizona?
Domestic violence charges in Arizona are taken very seriously by the legal system. Many victims mistakenly believe they have the power to drop charges against their abuser. However, in Arizona, the decision to drop domestic violence charges rests solely with the...
What Drugs are Legal in Arizona?
Arizona's drug laws have evolved over the years, reflecting changing attitudes and public health considerations. While many substances remain illegal under state and federal law, there have been notable shifts in the legal status of certain drugs. In Arizona,...
Arizona Shoplifting Laws: What You Need To Know
Arizona's shoplifting laws are stricter than you might expect. While many assume shoplifting is a minor offense, it can actually result in serious consequences, including felony charges in certain situations. Under Arizona Revised Statute 13-1805, shoplifting occurs...