Frequently Asked Questions
What's the first thing you should do after a DUI arrest in Arizona?
Contact an attorney immediately to protect your driving privileges and preserve MVD deadlines. Arizona's strict DUI penalties require fast action, including challenging administrative license suspensions within 15 days. At Squires Law LLC, we review traffic stops and breathalyzer results quickly to identify defense options early.How does forensic toxicology help in a DUI defense case?
A forensic toxicology expert reviews blood or breath test procedures to identify errors law enforcement made during testing. This full report can cite procedural mistakes, calibration issues, or contamination that weakens the prosecution's case. At Squires Law LLC, we hire outside experts to provide detailed toxicology analysis and defense recommendations.Can you be charged with a weapons offense just for being near a firearm?
Yes, Arizona's prohibited possessor statute can charge individuals simply for being near a firearm if they have certain prior convictions. Weapons charges range from illegal machine guns to proximity cases, each with unique defenses. At Squires Law LLC, we examine stop-and-search procedures and firearm data to challenge these allegations.What are common 4th Amendment violations in Tempe criminal cases?
Common violations include unlawful traffic stops, searches without probable cause, and seizures of evidence without a warrant. These procedural errors often occur during stops near ASU, Mill Avenue, and Loop 202 corridors. At Squires Law LLC, we use a fact-driven investigative approach to challenge illegal searches and protect your constitutional rights.What affects the cost of a criminal defense case in Arizona?
Case complexity, charge severity, evidence volume, and court jurisdiction all impact defense costs. Felony cases requiring expert witnesses or extensive investigation typically cost more than misdemeanors. At Squires Law LLC, we provide transparent communication about case scope and offer direct attorney access throughout the process.When should you hire a lawyer after being arrested in Tempe?
Hire a lawyer immediately, ideally before making any statements to police or prosecutors. Early involvement allows your attorney to secure evidence, challenge illegal procedures, and prevent self-incrimination. At Squires Law LLC, we offer availability for urgent arrests and high-pressure situations throughout Tempe and Maricopa County.What's the difference between possession and intent to sell drug charges?
Possession involves holding drugs for personal use, while intent-to-sell charges allege distribution based on quantity, packaging, or other evidence. Intent-to-sell carries harsher penalties and often felony exposure. At Squires Law LLC, we evaluate search legality and lab reports to build strong defenses for drug cases near ASU and Tempe transportation hubs.How do body cameras help in domestic violence defense cases?
Body-cam footage can reveal inconsistencies in witness statements, officer bias, or due-process violations during arrest. Reviewing this evidence often uncovers defense opportunities missed by prosecution. At Squires Law LLC, we analyze body-cam footage, 911 records, and witness statements to protect clients' rights and reputations in emotionally charged cases.What makes aggravated assault a felony in Arizona?
Aggravated assault becomes a felony when serious injury occurs, a weapon is used, or the victim is a protected class like an officer. Arizona law treats these factors as aggravating circumstances with enhanced penalties. At Squires Law LLC, we challenge escalation decisions and review medical reports to mitigate long-term consequences.Can a disorderly conduct charge hurt your college record?
Yes, a disorderly conduct conviction can impact academic standing, scholarships, and future employment opportunities. These charges often arise from ASU-area nightlife or public events in Tempe. At Squires Law LLC, we focus on reducing record impact and provide discreet representation tailored to Tempe Municipal Court proceedings.How does radar calibration affect a criminal speeding defense?
Improperly calibrated radar devices can produce inaccurate speed readings, weakening the prosecution's evidence. Arizona courts require proof of proper calibration and officer training. At Squires Law LLC, we review radar readings, calibration records, and officer notes to challenge criminal speeding charges on Tempe's major corridors like US-60 and Loop 202.Who is eligible for expungement in Arizona?
Individuals with certain dismissed cases, completed sentences, or qualifying convictions may pursue expungement under Arizona law. Eligibility depends on offense type, time elapsed, and court jurisdiction. At Squires Law LLC, we review prior convictions and assist with Maricopa County petition preparation to help Tempe clients improve employment and housing opportunities.What's the biggest mistake people make after a DUI arrest in Arizona?
The biggest mistake is waiting too long to act, which can result in losing the MVD hearing deadline and forfeiting driving privileges. Arizona imposes strict DUI penalties and fast-moving administrative timelines. At Squires Law LLC, we encourage clients to schedule a consultation immediately to preserve defense options and protect their license.How does a DUI defense attorney challenge breathalyzer results?
A defense attorney reviews traffic stop procedures, breathalyzer calibration records, and officer reports to identify testing errors or rights violations. At Squires Law LLC, we hire an outside forensic toxicology expert who provides a full report citing errors law enforcement made during testing and offers recommendations for the defense process.Can you be charged with a weapons offense if you never touched the gun?
Yes, Arizona's prohibited-possessor statutes can apply even if you are simply near a firearm and fall under restricted categories. Weapons charges include many subsections, each with unique defenses. At Squires Law LLC, we challenge stop-and-search procedures and establish whether rights violations occurred to build a strong technical defense.What are common defenses to drug charges in Tempe?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search, vehicle stop, or property seizure that led to drug evidence. Many Arizona drug cases involve Fourth Amendment violations. At Squires Law LLC, we evaluate searches, lab reports, and officer conduct to identify strong defense angles, especially in stops near ASU or major highways.How do police handle domestic violence calls near ASU housing?
Police often make arrests based on mandatory-arrest policies, even when evidence is unclear or witness statements conflict. Officers frequently rely on 911 records and brief interviews at the scene. At Squires Law LLC, we review body-cam footage and witness statements to identify inconsistencies or due-process violations in these emotionally charged cases.What makes an assault charge aggravated in Arizona?
An assault becomes aggravated when it involves serious injury, use of a weapon, or occurs against protected individuals like police officers or minors. Arizona law treats aggravated assault as a felony with significant sentencing exposure. At Squires Law LLC, we review medical reports and surveillance footage to uncover defense opportunities and challenge escalation decisions.Can disorderly conduct charges affect my college enrollment?
Yes, disorderly conduct convictions can appear on background checks and impact academic standing, scholarships, and future employment opportunities. These charges are common in ASU-area nightlife zones and public events. At Squires Law LLC, we focus on reducing the impact on your record and handle municipal court proceedings quickly to protect your future.What's the difference between reckless driving and criminal speeding in Arizona?
Reckless driving involves willful disregard for safety, while criminal speeding is defined by specific speed thresholds, such as exceeding 85 mph or 20+ mph over the limit. Both are criminal offenses, not civil infractions. At Squires Law LLC, we challenge radar calibration and officer notes to protect your license and insurance rates.How do search and seizure violations help a criminal defense case?
If police conducted an unlawful search or seizure, the evidence obtained may be suppressed and excluded from trial under the Fourth Amendment. This can weaken or dismiss the prosecution's case entirely. At Squires Law LLC, we use a fact-driven, investigative approach to identify procedural violations and protect your constitutional rights throughout Maricopa County courts.When should I request expungement of my Arizona criminal record?
You should request expungement as soon as you become eligible, which depends on case outcome, charge type, and waiting periods under Arizona law. Expungement improves employment, housing, and licensing opportunities. At Squires Law LLC, we review prior convictions or dismissed cases, assist with documentation, and file petitions in Maricopa County courts to help clients achieve a fresh start.Why does Tempe have so many DUI stops near Mill Avenue?
Mill Avenue and surrounding ASU-area corridors see heavy nightlife traffic, making them high-priority enforcement zones for DUI patrols. Officers frequently monitor bars, restaurants, and Loop 202 on-ramps in downtown Tempe. At Squires Law LLC, we tailor defense strategies for these high-traffic locations and use our familiarity with local policing patterns to challenge stops effectively.What should I do if police want to question me without a lawyer?
Politely invoke your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent and request an attorney before answering any questions. Anything you say can be used against you, even if you believe it helps your case. At Squires Law LLC, we specialize in interrogation defense and advise clients to reach out early to avoid self-incrimination and protect their rights.What's the biggest mistake people make after a DUI arrest?
The biggest mistake is waiting too long to act, which can result in missed MVD deadlines and lost defenses. Arizona DUI penalties are harsh, and fast action is critical to protect driving privileges. At Squires Law LLC, we encourage clients to schedule a confidential consultation quickly to preserve all defense options.How does forensic toxicology help defend a DUI case?
Forensic toxicology experts review testing procedures and identify errors made by law enforcement during breath or blood analysis. At Squires Law LLC, we hire an outside expert who provides a full report citing testing mistakes and recommendations that strengthen the defense process in Tempe and surrounding areas.
