Arizona Unlawful Flight Lawyer – Tamou Law Group
Facing an unlawful flight charge in Arizona is a serious matter that can lead to harsh legal consequences. Arizona’s criminal laws take fleeing from law enforcement extremely seriously, and being convicted of this crime can result in a felony record, jail time, and substantial fines. To protect your future, it’s crucial to work with an experienced Arizona unlawful flight lawyer who can help you navigate the legal system and build a strong defense.
At Tamou Law Group, our legal team, led by Michael Tamou, is highly skilled in defending clients against unlawful flight charges. With years of experience in Arizona criminal law, we have developed a deep understanding of how to challenge the prosecution’s case and work to get charges reduced or dismissed. If you are facing unlawful flight charges, we are here to provide you with the expert defense you need.
What is Unlawful Flight in Arizona?
Unlawful flight, a vehicular crime, is defined under Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) § 28-622.01. According to this statute, a person commits unlawful flight when they knowingly flee or attempt to elude a pursuing law enforcement officer who has given a lawful signal to stop. This signal could come from flashing lights, sirens, or a direct command to halt. The key element in unlawful flight cases is the intent of the driver to evade the police.
To be charged with unlawful flight in Arizona, the prosecution must prove that the driver:
- Received a lawful signal from law enforcement to stop, and;
- Knowingly ignored or attempted to evade that signal.
Unlawful flight is not merely a traffic violation; it is classified as a Class 5 felony under Arizona law. This means that the penalties for a conviction can be severe, including significant jail time, fines, and long-term impacts on your record. Unlawful flight accompanied by another crime, such as Driving Under the Influence, can lead to additional charges and harsher penalties.
Penalties for Unlawful Flight in Arizona
Since unlawful flight is classified as a felony, the consequences of a conviction are serious. The penalties may include:
- Imprisonment: A Class 5 felony conviction can result in six months to two years in prison, or longer with aggravating factors such as prior convictions or concurrent crimes.
- Fines: Convictions can carry fines of up to $150,000, not including court costs or restitution for damages.
- Driver’s License Suspension: The defendant’s license may be suspended or revoked, affecting work and daily activities.
- Probation: Courts may impose probation instead of prison time, often requiring community service, monitoring, or rehabilitation programs.
The harsh nature of these penalties makes it essential to work with an Arizona unlawful flight lawyer who understands how to navigate the complexities of Arizona’s criminal justice system.
ARS § 28-622.01 – Arizona’s Unlawful Flight Statute Summarized
The statute reads:
“A driver of a motor vehicle who willfully flees or attempts to elude a pursuing official law enforcement vehicle that is appropriately marked showing it to be an official law enforcement vehicle and that is either sounding a siren or flashing its lights as required by law is guilty of a class 5 felony.”
- Willful Fleeing: The driver must have intentionally tried to avoid law enforcement.
- Pursuing Vehicle: The police vehicle must be marked and using proper signals.
- Felony Classification: A conviction results in a Class 5 felony record with serious long-term consequences.
An experienced Arizona unlawful flight lawyer like Michael Tamou can analyze your case to determine whether the prosecution has sufficient evidence of willful intent and challenge weaknesses in their argument.
Defending Against Unlawful Flight Charges in Arizona
Common Defense Strategies
- Lack of Intent: Showing the driver was unaware of the officer’s signal or had no intent to flee.
- Unlawful Signal: Arguing the pursuing vehicle was not properly marked or signaling legally.
- Mistaken Identity: Establishing that law enforcement identified the wrong vehicle or driver.
- No Willful Evading: Demonstrating that any delay in stopping was reasonable or for safety reasons.
Each case is unique. At Tamou Law Group, we carefully examine every detail to uncover errors, inconsistencies, and possible grounds for dismissal.
Proven Experience
Michael Tamou has successfully defended numerous clients facing felony charges, building strong, evidence-based defenses to achieve the best possible outcomes.
The Legal Process for Unlawful Flight Cases
Understanding the legal process can help reduce anxiety and prepare you for what’s ahead:
- Investigation & Arrest: The case starts when law enforcement suspects you of fleeing and initiates charges.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea; your Arizona unlawful flight lawyer will guide you.
- Discovery: Both sides exchange evidence; your attorney reviews it for weaknesses or unlawful actions.
- Pretrial Motions: Motions may challenge improper evidence or unlawful procedures.
- Plea or Trial: Depending on the evidence, your lawyer may negotiate or take your case to trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your lawyer can argue for reduced penalties or mitigating factors.
With Tamou Law Group by your side, you’ll receive aggressive and strategic representation through every stage of your case.
Why You Need an Arizona Unlawful Flight Lawyer
- Extensive Legal Knowledge: Michael Tamou and his team deeply understand Arizona’s criminal laws and how to use them effectively in your defense.
- Thorough Investigation: We examine police reports, dashcam footage, and every detail for inconsistencies.
- Negotiation Experience: Skilled in negotiating reduced charges or plea deals when beneficial.
- Personalized Defense Strategy: Every case is different, and we tailor our approach to your circumstances.
Protect Your Future with Tamou Law Group
If you are facing unlawful flight charges in Arizona, don’t wait to seek help. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can start building your defense and protecting your rights.
Call Tamou Law Group today at 623-321-4699 for a free consultation with an experienced Arizona unlawful flight lawyer. Let us help you navigate your case and work toward a positive resolution.