Maricopa County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Tamou Law Group
Aggressive Criminal Defense in Maricopa County, Arizona. Michael Tamou fights for your rights, your freedom, and your future.
623-321-4699 — Free ConsultationMaricopa County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Tamou Law Group
When you need a criminal defense lawyer in Maricopa County, you’re entering the busiest criminal justice system in Arizona. With over 4.5 million residents and multiple jurisdictions spanning from Phoenix to Surprise, Maricopa County processes more criminal cases annually than any other Arizona county.
The sheer volume creates a system that moves fast and punishes mistakes harshly. For immediate legal representation, call 623-321-4699 to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
The Maricopa County Criminal Justice Machine
Maricopa County’s criminal justice system operates like no other in Arizona. The Maricopa County Superior Court handles felony cases across 27 jurisdictions, while municipal courts in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Glendale, and smaller cities process thousands of misdemeanor cases monthly.
This massive caseload creates unique challenges and opportunities. Prosecutors often rely on quick plea bargains to manage their dockets, but they’re also less likely to dismiss cases that would be dropped in smaller counties. Understanding how to navigate this system requires local experience and strategic thinking.
Tamou Law Group, PLLC has defended clients across every Maricopa County jurisdiction. Our team, including former prosecutors and public defenders, knows how cases move through each court and which strategies work with different judges and prosecutors.
Misdemeanor Criminal Charges Throughout Maricopa County
Misdemeanor charges in Maricopa County create permanent criminal records that follow you for life. Even a Class 3 misdemeanor conviction can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing opportunities.
The most common misdemeanor charges we defend include:
- DUI – ARS §28-1381 (Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 6 months jail, $2,500 fine)
- Disorderly Conduct – ARS §13-2904 (Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 6 months jail)
- Assault – ARS §13-1203 (Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 6 months jail)
- Criminal Damage – ARS §13-1602 (Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 4 months jail)
- Shoplifting – ARS §13-1805 (Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 6 months jail)
- Drug Paraphernalia – ARS §13-3415 (Class 6 felony or Class 1 misdemeanor)
- Trespassing – ARS §13-1502 (Class 3 misdemeanor: up to 30 days jail)
- Reckless Driving – ARS §28-693 (Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 4 months jail)
- Suspended License – ARS §28-3473 (Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 6 months jail)
Arizona’s misdemeanor structure includes three classes with maximum penalties:
- Class 1: Up to 6 months jail, $2,500 fine plus surcharges
- Class 2: Up to 4 months jail, $750 fine plus surcharges
- Class 3: Up to 30 days jail, $500 fine plus surcharges
Award-Winning Criminal Defense in Maricopa County
Recognized by the nation’s top legal organizations
What Should I Do If I Am Arrested In Maricopa County Arizona?
Invoke your right to remain silent immediately and request an attorney. Do not consent to searches, avoid discussing your case with anyone except your lawyer, and contact Tamou Law Group at 623-321-4699 for immediate legal representation.
The first 48 hours after arrest are critical. What you say and do during this window often determines whether charges stick or get dismissed. Maricopa County police departments use sophisticated interrogation techniques designed to secure confessions, even from innocent people.
Key steps to protect yourself:
- Clearly state: “I invoke my right to remain silent and want a lawyer”
- Do not consent to any searches of your person, vehicle, or property
- Do not answer questions or make statements, even casual conversation
- Avoid posting about your arrest on social media
- Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately
Felony Defense Across Maricopa County Jurisdictions
Felony charges in Maricopa County carry prison sentences, lifetime consequences, and loss of fundamental civil rights including voting, gun ownership, and professional licensing. These cases demand aggressive criminal defense from day one.
Common felony charges we defend include:
- Aggravated Assault – ARS §13-1204 (Class 3 felony: 2-8.75 years prison)
- Drug Possession – ARS §13-3407 (Class 4 felony: 1-3.75 years prison)
- Drug Sales – ARS §13-3408 (Class 2 felony: 3-12.5 years prison)
- Armed Robbery – ARS §13-1904 (Class 2 felony: 7-21 years prison)
- Burglary First Degree – ARS §13-1506 (Class 2 felony: 3-12.5 years prison)
- Burglary Second Degree – ARS §13-1507 (Class 3 felony: 2-8.75 years prison)
- Sexual Assault – ARS §13-1406 (Class 2 felony: 5.25-14 years prison)
- Aggravated DUI – ARS §28-1383 (Class 4 felony: 4 months-2 years prison)
- Weapons Misconduct – ARS §13-3102 (Class 4 felony: 1-3.75 years prison)
Arizona’s felony sentencing structure includes:
- Class 2: 3-12.5 years prison (dangerous crimes: 7-21 years)
- Class 3: 2-8.75 years prison (dangerous crimes: 5-15 years)
- Class 4: 1-3.75 years prison (dangerous crimes: 4-8 years)
- Class 5: 0.5-2.5 years prison
- Class 6: 0.33-2 years prison
How Criminal Cases Move Through Maricopa County Courts
Understanding the criminal court process in Maricopa County helps you make informed decisions at every stage. The system moves differently depending on whether you’re charged with a misdemeanor or felony, and which jurisdiction handles your case.
Misdemeanor Process:
Most misdemeanor cases start in municipal courts like Phoenix City Court, Scottsdale City Court, or Mesa Municipal Court. After arrest and booking, you’ll have an initial appearance within 24 hours where bail is set. Arraignment follows within 10 days, where you enter a plea.
Felony Process:
Felony cases go through Maricopa County Superior Court. After arrest, you have an initial appearance for bail setting, followed by a preliminary hearing where prosecutors must show probable cause. If bound over, you’re arraigned and the case proceeds to pretrial conferences and potential trial.
Early attorney involvement changes everything. Michael Tamou and his team can often negotiate with prosecutors before charges are filed, potentially preventing felony charges or securing dismissals.
Comprehensive Criminal Defense Services
Tamou Law Group, PLLC handles the full spectrum of criminal charges throughout Maricopa County:
- DUI/DWI Defense: Regular DUI, extreme DUI, aggravated DUI, and commercial driver DUI cases
- Drug Crimes: Possession, sales, transportation, manufacturing, and paraphernalia charges
- Violent Crimes: Assault, aggravated assault, domestic violence, and weapons charges
- Sex Crimes: Sexual assault, indecent exposure, and internet crimes against children
- Theft Crimes: Shoplifting, armed robbery, burglary, and white collar fraud
- Traffic Offenses: Suspended license, reckless driving, and hit-and-run charges
- White Collar Crimes: Fraud, forgery, identity theft, and embezzlement
- Probation Violations: Technical violations and new law violations
- Expungements: Record sealing and rights restoration
Defense Strategies That Protect Your Future In Maricopa County
Effective criminal defense strategies require understanding how Maricopa County prosecutors build cases and where their evidence is weakest. Our team, including former prosecutors and public defenders, anticipates prosecution tactics and builds defenses accordingly.
Common defense approaches include:
- Fourth Amendment Challenges: Suppressing evidence from illegal searches and seizures
- Probable Cause Attacks: Challenging the initial stop or arrest
- Witness Credibility: Exposing inconsistencies in police reports and witness statements
- Procedural Violations: Identifying Miranda violations and due process errors
- Diversion Programs: Negotiating treatment and education alternatives to conviction
- Plea Negotiations: Reducing charges or securing probation instead of jail time
- Trial Advocacy: Taking cases to jury trial when dismissal or acceptable plea isn’t available
In a recent Maricopa County drug possession case, Tamou Law Group secured a complete dismissal for a client facing Class 4 felony charges by proving the search violated Fourth Amendment protections during a routine traffic stop.
Why Choose Tamou Law Group For Maricopa County Criminal Defense
Michael Tamou and his experienced legal team understand that aggressive defense starts immediately after arrest. Our team includes former prosecutors and public defenders who know how the other side builds cases and use that insight to protect our clients.
What sets us apart:
- Local Court Knowledge: Extensive experience in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Glendale, and all Maricopa County jurisdictions
- Personal Attention: Michael Tamou personally handles every case – never handed off to associates
- Former Prosecutor Insight: Team members with prosecution and public defender experience
- Proven Results: Over 1,000 successful case outcomes throughout Maricopa County
- 24/7 Availability: Immediate response for arrests and emergencies
Who Is The Best Criminal Defense Lawyer In Maricopa County?
Tamou Law Group, PLLC is recognized as the leading criminal defense firm in Maricopa County, with Michael Tamou earning multiple awards including National Top 100 Trial Lawyers and Super Lawyers 2025 recognition.
Awards and Recognition:
- Top 40 Under 40 Criminal Defense Lawyers
- National Top 100 Trial Lawyers
- Super Lawyers 2025
- National College for DUI Defense (NCDD) Member
- DUI Defense Lawyers Association (DUIDLA) Member
- Elite Lawyers 2025
- Over 500 cases handled annually
- 1,000+ successful case outcomes
Free Consultation For Maricopa County Criminal Charges
If you’re facing criminal charges anywhere in Maricopa County, time is critical. Contact Tamou Law Group, PLLC immediately for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to discuss your case and begin building your defense.
Our office is located at 9375 E Shea Blvd, Suite 100, Scottsdale, AZ 85260, convenient to all Maricopa County courts. Call 623-321-4699 now to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Don’t face the Maricopa County criminal justice system alone. Tamou Law Group, PLLC provides the aggressive representation you need to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.
Michael Tamou
Founding Attorney, Tamou Law Group, PLLC
Awards & Memberships
Facing Criminal Charges in Maricopa County?
Don’t face the justice system alone. Call Michael Tamou for a free, confidential consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Criminal Charges in Maricopa County, Arizona
Should I accept a plea deal or go to trial in Maricopa County?
The decision depends on the strength of evidence against you and potential trial outcomes. Maricopa County prosecutors often offer reasonable plea deals due to heavy caseloads, but some cases should go to trial when evidence is weak. Tamou Law Group evaluates every case individually, analyzing police reports, witness statements, and evidence to determine whether a plea or trial gives you the best outcome.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Arizona?
Arizona allows record sealing for many criminal convictions under ARS §13-911. You can petition to seal records after completing your sentence, including probation. Misdemeanors can be sealed immediately after completion, while felonies require waiting periods. Record sealing hides convictions from most background checks, helping with employment and housing applications.
What should I do if I am arrested in Maricopa County?
Invoke your right to remain silent immediately and request an attorney. Do not consent to searches or answer questions beyond providing identification. Contact Tamou Law Group at 623-321-4699 immediately. What you do in the first 48 hours after arrest can determine your case outcome. Avoid social media posts about your arrest and do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer.
Can criminal charges be dropped before trial in Maricopa County?
Yes, criminal charges can be dismissed or reduced before trial through effective legal representation. Prosecutors may drop charges due to insufficient evidence, procedural violations, or successful plea negotiations. Early attorney involvement is crucial – Tamou Law Group has secured dismissals by challenging probable cause, exposing evidence problems, and negotiating with prosecutors before formal charges are filed.
How long does a criminal case take in Maricopa County?
Misdemeanor cases typically resolve within 2-4 months, while felony cases can take 6-18 months or longer if they go to trial. Maricopa County’s heavy caseload can cause delays, but speedy trial rights under Arizona law require resolution within specific timeframes. Plea negotiations can expedite resolution, while complex cases requiring investigation and motions take longer to resolve.
How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Maricopa County?
Criminal defense fees vary based on case complexity and charge severity. Misdemeanor cases typically cost $2,000-$5,000, while felony cases range from $5,000-$25,000 or more for serious charges. Tamou Law Group offers free consultations and payment plans to make quality representation accessible. The cost of hiring an experienced attorney is minimal compared to the lifetime consequences of a criminal conviction.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Arizona?
Misdemeanors carry maximum penalties of 6 months jail and $2,500 fines, while felonies carry prison sentences from 4 months to life. Felony convictions result in loss of civil rights including voting and gun ownership. Both create permanent criminal records, but felonies have more severe long-term consequences for employment, housing, and professional licensing in Arizona.
Will a criminal charge show up on a background check in Arizona?
Yes, both arrests and convictions typically appear on background checks unless records are sealed. Even dismissed charges may show up on comprehensive background checks. Misdemeanor and felony convictions create permanent records affecting employment, housing, and licensing opportunities. Record sealing under ARS §13-911 can hide many convictions from most background checks after completing your sentence.
Schedule Your Free Consultation With Tamou Law Group, PLLC Today
Don’t face the justice system alone. Call Michael Tamou for a free, confidential consultation.