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Arizona Criminal Defense Lawyer

Arizona Criminal Defense Lawyers

Michael Tamou, Arizona criminal defense attorney

Michael Tamou

Founding Attorney · Criminal Defense

5.0 · Criminal Defense

Under investigation or charged with a crime in Arizona? Tamou Law Group defends the full range of state and federal charges, DUI, drug, violent, sex, theft, and white collar crimes, at every stage from investigation through trial. The earlier we are involved, the more we can do. Do not talk to police before you call us.

Recognized By

NTL Top 100 Trial Lawyers NTL Top 40 Under 40 Trial Lawyers Elite Lawyer 2026 Criminal Defense 2027 Southwest Super Lawyers National College For DUI Defense DUI Defense Lawyers Association
Michael Tamou, Arizona criminal defense attorney

Michael Tamou

Founding Attorney · Criminal Defense

★★★★★ 5.0 · Criminal Defense

As Seen On

As Seen On NBC News, USA Today, Digital Journal, AZ Central, Lamar, ABC News, Fox News
Tamou Law Group team, former prosecutors defending Arizona criminal cases

Our Team Has SeenBoth Sides

Former Prosecutors · Law Enforcement · Public Defenders

When you call Tamou Law Group, you reach a firm that handles criminal defense exclusively, across every charge from DUI to homicide, in courts throughout Arizona. Our team includes former prosecutors who built these cases and law enforcement officers who investigated them, so we know exactly how the State thinks, and where its cases break down.

At many large firms, the name on the building is a marketing figurehead, you will rarely get them on the phone and your case is handed to a junior associate. When you hire Tamou Law Group, your case is handled by a full team of attorneys, not associates, including Michael Tamou. Call 623-321-4699 for a free, confidential consultation, 24/7.

Written and legally reviewed by Michael Tamou, Founding Attorney of Tamou Law Group, PLLC. Last updated June 27, 2026.

What Does an Arizona Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

Quick answer: A criminal defense lawyer protects your rights and your freedom from the moment you are investigated through trial and appeal. Tamou Law Group defends the full range of Arizona charges, DUI, drug, violent, domestic violence, sex, theft and property, and white collar crimes, in both state and federal court. Arizona grades felonies Class 1 (most serious) to Class 6, and many offenses carry mandatory or flat-time prison. The single most important thing you can do is get a lawyer involved early, often before charges are filed.

Key Takeaways

  • We defend every Arizona criminal charge, DUI, drugs, violent crimes, domestic violence, sex crimes, theft and property crimes, and white collar, in state and federal court.
  • Arizona felonies run Class 1 (murder) to Class 6; misdemeanors are Class 1–3. The class drives your exposure.
  • Many charges carry mandatory or flat-time prison (“dangerous offenses,” crimes against children), so fighting the charge level is critical.
  • The investigation / pre-charge window is often where cases are won, sometimes before any charge is filed.
  • We handle every stage: diversion, plea negotiation, suppression motions, trial, and appeal.
  • Our team includes former prosecutors and law enforcement officers who know how the State builds a case.
  • Your case is handled by a full team of attorneys, not associates, including Michael Tamou, available 24/7 at 623-321-4699.

Recognized By

NTL Top 100 Trial LawyersNTL Top 40 Under 40 Trial LawyersElite Lawyer 2026 Criminal DefenseNational College For DUI DefenseDUI Defense Lawyers Association2027 Southwest Super Lawyers

Act Early

Under Investigation?

The time before charges are filed is often the most important, and most winnable, stage. Do not talk to detectives or turn over anything. Call us first.

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Your Rights

Just Arrested?

You have the right to remain silent and to a lawyer, use them. Politely decline to answer questions and call us before any interview or statement.

See Practice Areas →

Every Charge

Misdemeanor or Felony

From a first DUI to a serious felony, we defend the full range of Arizona charges in state and federal court, and at every stage of the case.

CALL NOW

Under investigation or charged in Arizona? Talk to Tamou Law Group before you speak to police.

How We Can Help

Arizona Criminal Defense Practice Areas

Whatever you are facing, choose your charge below for a complete guide, or call us 24/7 for a free, confidential consultation.

DUI Defense

First Offense to Aggravated

Standard, extreme, aggravated, drug, and fatal DUI. The stop and the testing are where these cases are won.

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Drug Crimes

Possession to Sales

Possession, paraphernalia, sales, and trafficking of drugs and marijuana, with diversion options for many cases.

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Violent Crimes

Assault to Homicide

Assault, aggravated assault, robbery, and weapons charges, many of them ‘dangerous’ felonies with mandatory prison.

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Homicide & Manslaughter

Negligent Homicide to Murder

Vehicular and intentional killings, from negligent homicide and manslaughter to first- and second-degree murder.

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Domestic Violence

A.R.S. 13-3601

DV charges that carry a firearm ban, no-contact orders, and counseling, often built on a single, one-sided account.

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Sex Crimes

Discreet, Aggressive Defense

Sexual abuse, assault, and related charges, among the most serious in Arizona, defended with discretion and force.

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Theft Crimes

Shoplifting to Robbery

Theft, shoplifting, burglary, robbery, and stolen property, graded by value, with diversion for many first offenses.

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Property Crimes

Damage, Trespass & Arson

Criminal damage, vandalism, criminal trespass, burglary, and arson, graded by value and the type of property.

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White Collar & Fraud

Fraud, Embezzlement & Laundering

Fraudulent schemes, theft, money laundering, and identity theft, often defended before charges are even filed.

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Vehicular Crimes

DUI, Reckless & Hit-and-Run

DUI, reckless driving, hit-and-run, and fatal-crash charges, where a vehicle becomes a ‘dangerous instrument.’

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Aggravated Assault

A.R.S. 13-1204

Assault with a weapon, serious injury, or a protected victim, a dangerous felony, often defended as self-defense.

Learn More →

Probation Violations

Petition to Revoke

Violation hearings where a judge can impose your original sentence, we fight for reinstatement, not revocation.

Learn More →

Do not see your charge, or not sure what you are facing? Call now, we defend it all.

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Know How It Works

How an Arizona Criminal Case Works

Understanding the system, and where the leverage is, is the first step to protecting yourself. Statutes link to azleg.gov.

Felonies, Misdemeanors & Sentencing

Arizona grades crimes from petty offenses and Class 1–3 misdemeanors up through Class 6 to Class 1 felonies, with Class 1 reserved for murder. Felony sentences follow a structured range (mitigated, minimum, presumptive, maximum) under A.R.S. § 13-702, and prior convictions raise that range substantially. Many offenses also carry mandatory or flat-time prison.

“Dangerous Offenses” & Crimes Against Children

When a crime involves a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument, or the intentional or knowing infliction of serious physical injury, it can be charged as a dangerous offense (A.R.S. § 13-704), removing probation and making prison mandatory. Certain offenses against a child under 15 are charged as Dangerous Crimes Against Children (A.R.S. § 13-705), with long, often consecutive terms. Defeating these designations is frequently the heart of the defense.

State vs. Federal Court

Most Arizona charges are prosecuted in state court by a County Attorney or the Attorney General, but some conduct, drug trafficking, large-scale fraud, firearms, can be charged federally, with different procedures and tougher sentencing guidelines. We assess and defend exposure on both fronts.

Your Constitutional Rights

You have the right to remain silent, to refuse consent to searches, and to a lawyer. Evidence obtained through an unlawful stop, search, or interrogation, or without a valid Miranda warning, can be suppressed, sometimes ending the case. Asserting these rights early is one of the most powerful things you can do.

Diversion, Plea & Trial

Cases resolve in several ways: diversion (completing a program for a dismissal, common for first-time and lower-level offenses), a negotiated plea to reduced charges, or trial. We prepare every case as if it is going to trial, because that readiness is what produces the best diversions and pleas, and protects you if the State will not be fair.

Sentencing at a Glance

Arizona Felony Classes & Exposure

The felony class drives your exposure. These are first-offense, non-dangerous presumptive terms, priors and ‘dangerous’ designations raise them sharply.

Arizona Sentencing Overview (First Offense, A.R.S. § 13-702)
ClassExamplesPresumptive / Exposure
Class 1 FelonyFirst- & second-degree murderLife or the death penalty / 10–25 yrs
Class 2 FelonyManslaughter, armed robbery, fraud schemes, drug sales5 years (3–12.5)
Class 3 FelonyAggravated assault, burglary 2nd, vehicle theft3.5 years (2–8.75)
Class 4 FelonyAggravated DUI, identity theft, drug possession (some)2.5 years (1–3.75)
Class 5 FelonyUnlawful flight, some thefts1.5 years (0.5–2.5)
Class 6 FelonyPossession, trespass 1st, low-level theft1 year (0.33–2)
Class 1 MisdemeanorDUI, assault, shoplifting, disorderly conductUp to 6 months jail

Moving a charge down even one class, or off a ‘dangerous’ designation, can mean years of difference. That is the core of what we do.

Whatever you are facing, the earlier we start, the more we can do. Call now, 24/7.

Defense Strategies

How We Defend Every Case

No matter the charge, strong defenses share the same foundations, attacking the State’s evidence, its procedure, and its theory.

Attacking the State’s Case

Unlawful Stop, Search & Seizure. Evidence from an illegal stop, search, or warrant can be suppressed, often gutting the case.

Miranda & Statement Violations. Admissions obtained without a valid warning, or after you asked for a lawyer, can be thrown out.

Insufficient Evidence. The State must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt, we hold it to that on each one.

Faulty Forensics. Breath and blood tests, drug analysis, DNA, and reconstructions are all challengeable by independent experts.

Affirmative Defenses & Mitigation

Self-Defense & Justification. In violent cases, justified force is a complete defense the State must disprove.

Lack of Intent. Most crimes require a culpable mental state, accident, mistake, or good faith can defeat the charge.

Mistaken Identity & False Allegations. Common in domestic, sex, and theft cases, where motive and unreliable identification undermine the State.

Diversion & Mitigation. For eligible cases, we secure diversion ending in dismissal, or build the mitigation that keeps you out of prison.

After reviewing your case, we will explain which defenses apply and the best path forward.

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Our Defense Team

The Experts We Bring to the Table

The State builds cases with crime labs, forensic analysts, and police testimony. We answer with the same caliber of specialists.

Forensic Toxicologists

Blood, Breath & Drugs

Challenge BAC and drug results, lab protocol, and whether the science actually proves impairment or the alleged amount.

DNA & Crime-Lab Experts

Forensic Evidence

Audit DNA, fingerprint, and trace evidence and the lab procedures behind them, where errors and contamination are common.

Video & Digital Forensics

Footage & Devices

Recover and analyze surveillance, body-cam, and device data that often contradicts the State’s narrative.

Eyewitness-ID Experts

Identification

Expose the well-documented unreliability of eyewitness identification, a leading cause of wrongful convictions.

Accident & Scene Reconstructionists

What Really Happened

Independently reconstruct crashes and crime scenes, frequently reaching conclusions opposite the police report.

Mitigation Specialists

Diversion & Sentencing

Build the personal, treatment, and restitution case that wins diversion and keeps clients out of prison.

Your freedom is worth the call. Free & confidential consultation, 24/7.

What to Expect

The Arizona Criminal Case Process

Knowing the stages, and where we add the most value, helps you understand what comes next.

1
Investigation

Cases often begin before any arrest. If you are contacted by police or get a target letter, we step in early, sometimes heading off charges entirely.

2
Arrest & Initial Appearance

After an arrest, the court sets release conditions. We fight for the lowest possible bond and the fewest restrictions on your life.

3
Charging & Arraignment

The State files charges and must disclose its evidence. We obtain everything and start building the defense immediately.

4
Motions & Investigation

We file motions to suppress unlawful evidence, retain experts, and investigate, the work that wins cases before trial.

5
Plea, Diversion or Trial

We negotiate from strength, for a dismissal, diversion, or a reduced plea, and take the case to trial when that is the right call.

6
Sentencing & Appeal

If it comes to sentencing, we present compelling mitigation, and we protect your right to appeal an unjust result.

Statewide Defense

Areas We Serve

Tamou Law Group defends criminal cases across Maricopa County and all of Arizona.

We represent clients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Peoria, Surprise, Goodyear, Avondale, and throughout Maricopa County, with representation available statewide and in federal court. Call 623-321-4699 for a free, confidential consultation, 24/7.

What Sets Us Apart

A Full Team of Attorneys, Not Associates

The single biggest factor in your defense is who actually handles your case, and how hard they fight it.

The Name On The Door

At many large firms, the name on the building is a marketing figurehead. You may never get them on the phone, and your case is handed to a rotating junior associate who has never tried a case like yours. At Tamou Law Group, your defense is handled by a full team of experienced attorneys, not junior associates, including founding attorney Michael Tamou. The same senior team handles your calls, your strategy, and your court dates.

Our reputation is built on results and on our clients’ words, a 5.0-star Google rating from people we have actually defended. Read them in the reviews below.

Client reviews

What our clients say

5.0
Based on 109 Google reviewsRead all reviews on Google →
  • I highly recommend Michael Tamou! He recently handled my GCE application, and I couldn't be more grateful for his help. From the very beginning, Michael was incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and thorough in making sure everything was completed perfectly. What stood out the most was his compassion—legal processes can be highly stressful, but he treated me with genuine care, kept me informed, and made me feel completely supported throughout. If you need a dedicated and skilled attorney who truly cares about his clients, look no further than Michael Tamou.

    DMDan MillerGoogle review · Oct 2026
  • Michael Tamou is an exceptional attorney! Facing a case that could affect my future was incredibly stressful, but from our first conversation, he provided honest guidance, reassurance, and a clear plan. He immediately got to work, personally reviewing the evidence and reports, filing the necessary motions, and keeping me informed throughout the process. His expertise, persistence, and genuine care gave me confidence that my case was in capable hands. I’m incredibly grateful that Michael achieved the outcome I had hoped and prayed for: my case was dismissed. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking a skilled, dedicated, and caring attorney.

    TJTammy JohnsonGoogle review · Sep 2026
  • I had a great experience working with Michael. From the beginning, they were professional, knowledgeable, and responsive. They took the time to explain everything clearly, kept me informed throughout the process, and always had my best interests in mind. Their dedication and attention to detail gave me confidence during a stressful time, and they achieved a positive outcome for my case. I truly appreciate their hard work and would highly recommend them to anyone looking for an experienced and trustworthy attorney. Thank so much Tamou Law Group.

    AAAlejandra ArevaloGoogle review · Aug 2026
  • This is a great group of attorneys that work together!! There’s no other law firm I’d use for any situation. They put the time and effort into helping out any way they can. Mike and Kristie were both amazing in handling my situation and being transparent during the whole process.

    TTJ2KGoogle review · Nov 2026
  • I can’t thank Tamou Law Group enough for helping me with my case. They truly went above and beyond, and I’m incredibly grateful for their hard work, dedication, and support. Having a team in your corner that cares makes all the difference during a stressful time. Five stars don’t feel like enough! I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a law firm that will go the extra mile. Thank you for everything!

    EGEvan GibraelGoogle review · Oct 2026
  • I cannot recommend Ms. Jacie Cotterell highly enough. From start to finish, she was absolutely amazing throughout the entire process. She was professional, knowledgeable, and always took the time to answer my questions and explain everything clearly, which gave me a lot of peace of mind during a stressful situation. What stood out most was how genuinely caring and dedicated she was. I always felt like she had my best interests at heart, and her communication was excellent every step of the way. She made a difficult experience much easier to navigate and was always patient, supportive, and reassuring. I am incredibly grateful for all of her hard work and guidance. If you’re looking for someone who is compassionate, trustworthy, and truly committed to helping her clients, I wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Jacie Cotterell. Thank you again for everything, wyou made a lasting positive impact, and I truly appreciate all that you did.

    BPBlaze PeralesGoogle review · Aug 2026
  • Michael is hands down the best in the business. The day I called him he explained everything about my daughter’s situation and took the time to research the charges. He then gave me a price and gave me a chance to think it through before hiring him and two weeks later we retained his services. Michael went to work at that point with his team and brought results that no one else could do. My daughter now has a second chance to get her life on track over a few costly mistakes that could have landed her in prison and with a felony record but Michael did not allow that to happen. If you need solid representation that fights for you then hire Michael.

    RHrob hardeeGoogle review · Aug 2026
  • Kristie & Mike didn’t just see me as another client but as a person in need of help. The level of professionalism & communication going through my whole case made me feel at peace. Amazing lawyers & 10/10 would recommend!

    DNDanny NguyenGoogle review · Oct 2026
  • We {Carrie & Ted S.} are very pleased that we chose Mike Tamou Law Group to represent a criminal case that was against our granddaughter. The case against her was for two different ordeals, and in both situations - the cases were handled above & beyond what we expected. Because of Mike's quickness and professionalism, both situations were resolved in an expedited manor with positive results that we were extremely pleased with. Our granddaughter is also extremely pleased with the results. We would recommend {Mike} Tamou Law Group to anybody that is seeking legal advice in a criminal situation.

    TSTed SchroederGoogle review · Jul 2026
  • I had an aggravated DUI case class 4 felony. With an extensive criminal record of 7 prior felonies. Mr. Tamou did an outstanding job on my case, he got me the least possible amount of time. He got the prosecutor not to allege any of my priers. I did just 4 months with a probation tail. Other lawyers I spoke with prior to retaining M. Tamou, told me the best they could get, would be a few years in prison, due to my extensive criminal history. Michael said he would fight for me and he delivered. He has relationships with the prosecutors and judges and is a great negotiator. Also he was great with communicating with me throughout the process. Always returned my calls and text messages and kept me informed. I highly recommend him.

    PGPaul GonzalezGoogle review · May 2026
  • I had a great experience with Tamou Law! Michael was very helpful. He took the time to explain everything in a way that was easy for me to understand, which made the entire process feel much less overwhelming. He was patient, professional, and always made sure I felt informed and comfortable with each step. I truly appreciated his communication and support throughout! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

    SSandraGoogle review · Apr 2026
  • Michael is truly amazing. I am so happy that I chose him to help me with my legal situation. He is completely trustworthy. Michael was completely transparent and honest throughout the entire process and offered support to me like I was his own family member. He was patient and understanding and prompt in responding to any of my inquiries during my waiting period. His explanations were clear and logical, and I felt beyond comfortable with him. I really appreciate him and the staff in his practice, and I highly recommend him for anyone's legal needs!! Thank you, Michael! You're really the best. I appreciate you!

    RLRochelle LeeGoogle review · Feb 2026
  • Our family went through the worst time of our lives! It was wonderful to have Michael on our side fighting for us and giving us the advice we needed to take the right steps. Case Dismissed! Thank you for your hard work, dedication, and support.

    RERussell EllisGoogle review · Aug 2026
  • He's the Greatest lawyer we could have ever asked for he put his heart into helping us and we came out with exactly what we wanted! I highly recommend him!

    JOJose OrtizGoogle review · Oct 2026
  • ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I cannot thank Mike Tamou enough for what he did for my family. My son was facing serious charges that could have changed the course of his life forever. From the very beginning, Mr. Tamou treated us with compassion, respect, and honesty. He took the time to explain every step of the process, always making sure we understood what was happening and what to expect. His professionalism and dedication were unmatched. He worked tirelessly on my son’s case, exploring every possible option and fighting for the best outcome. Because of Mike’s skill, expertise, and determination, my son was saved from going to jail and now has the opportunity to move forward and rebuild his life. I am forever grateful for his hard work and would highly recommend Mike Tamou to anyone in need of a strong, knowledgeable, and caring defense attorney. He doesn’t just represent his clients—he truly fight for them.

    EHErin HernandezGoogle review · 2025
  • Michael did an amazing job helping my loved one with his case. He was the first call I made and I knew right then how much he truly cared for his clients. I highly recommend Tamou Law to anyone who reads this review. Michael worked extremely hard for us and exceeded my expectations of the outcome. He is compassionate, very knowledgeable, experienced, respected and very fair. He always took the time to take my calls and to listen to questions that we had. He works hard for his clients and is the kind of guy you want on your side. Thanks again Michael. You were a pleasure to work with.

    LBLaurie BryantGoogle review · 2024
  • Great experience from start to finish. Professional, responsive, and made a stressful situation much easier. I felt confident the whole time and really appreciated Michael’s support. Highly recommend!

    SMShivraj MannGoogle review · Apr 2026
  • Had a situation that Michael helped me through with the best possible outcome. Very responsive and actually cares about his clients.

    CJCaleb JohnsonGoogle review · Aug 2026
  • My son was an idiot and was in serious trouble. He was facing prison time. Fortunately, we were referred to Tamou Law Group by trusted friends and we are beyond grateful that we listened. From the onset, Michael helped to put our family at ease. We discussed the charges where Mike provided insight that helped adjust our expectations. Sure enough, it played out nearly exactly like Mike predicted. Mike put a strong case together – which resulted with no jail time! If you find yourself in need of legal representation, you should hire Michael Timou!

    AHArmando HernandezGoogle review · 2025
  • I can’t recommend Tamou law group enough. From day one, Micheal took the time to really listen, explained my options in a way that actually made sense, and built a strong strategy that put my mind at ease. The entire team was professional, responsive and genuinely caring throughout the whole process. They fought tirelessly and delivered a result that far exceeded my expectations. If you need a law firm you can trust completely, this is it. Thank you!

    BKBryan KingGoogle review · Dec 2025

Clients reach us searching in many ways, for the best criminal defense lawyer in Arizona, for a Phoenix criminal attorney, or for help with a specific DUI, drug, violent, or theft charge. However you found us, Tamou Law Group defends criminal cases across Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Peoria, and all of Maricopa County, with representation statewide and in federal court. Call 623-321-4699 for a free, confidential consultation, 24/7.

Call Tamou Law Group Now! Arizona Criminal Defense, 24/7

Award-Winning Criminal Defense Law Firm

When you are looking for the best Phoenix criminal lawyers, these are the independently verified credentials that matter, earned by Founding Attorney Michael Tamou and a full team of attorneys, including former prosecutors.

  • National Trial Lawyers Top 100
  • National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40
  • 2027 Southwest Super Lawyers
  • Elite Lawyer 2026, Criminal Defense
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • DUI Defense Lawyers Association
Why Tamou Law Group

Why Tamou Law Group for Criminal Defense

Every criminal case in Arizona is decided by what the State can prove, and the State proves less when the defense starts early. We get into cases before charges are filed whenever we can, and we build them on evidence rather than argument.

Results across the spectrum

Our published results include armed robbery and sexual assault cases dismissed, reckless driving dismissed, diversion on drug and theft charges, probation with no jail on aggravated DUI, and a second-degree murder charge reduced. Every case is different, and these show how we fight.

Former prosecutors and law enforcement officers

Our team includes former prosecutors and law enforcement officers, so we know how the State builds a case and where it breaks down. Michael Tamou handled roughly 500 cases a year at the public defender’s office before founding the firm.

Recognized, and available

Michael Tamou is recognized by the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 and Top 40 Under 40, Super Lawyers Southwest and Elite Lawyer 2026. We answer 24/7 from our Phoenix and Scottsdale offices, and we appear in Maricopa, Pima and Pinal County courts.

Published results in this area

CaseChargesOutcome
State v. D.O.Armed robbery and aggravated assault (A.R.S. 13-1904, 13-1204)Dismissed
State v. W.N.Sexual assault and sexual abuse (13-1406, 13-1404)Case dismissed
State v. C.K.Reckless driving and racing (28-693, 28-708)Case dismissed
State v. N.K.Possession of narcotic drugs (13-3408, 13-3415)Diversion
State v. L.S.Aggravated DUI (28-1383)Probation, no jail
State v. F.N.Second-degree murder (13-1104)Reduced charge

Anonymized outcomes from our case results page. Every case is different; past results do not guarantee a future outcome.

Call 623-321-4699, 24/7
Common Questions

Arizona Criminal Defense FAQs

Common questions about charges, your rights, the process, and defenses in Arizona.

What types of criminal cases does Tamou Law Group handle?

We handle the full range of Arizona criminal charges, DUI, drug crimes, violent crimes, homicide, domestic violence, sex crimes, theft and property crimes, white collar and fraud, weapons charges, and probation violations, in both state and federal court.

Should I talk to the police if I’m being investigated?

No. You have the right to remain silent and to a lawyer, use them. Politely decline to answer questions and do not consent to searches. Contact a defense attorney before any interview, what you say is one of the most common ways the State builds its case.

What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Arizona?

Misdemeanors (Class 1-3) carry up to six months in jail. Felonies (Class 6 up to Class 1) carry prison and a permanent record, with Class 1 reserved for murder. The class drives your exposure, and reducing it is often the central goal.

Can a criminal charge be dismissed or reduced?

Often, yes. Through suppression motions, attacking the evidence, diversion programs, and negotiation, charges are frequently dismissed, reduced, or resolved without a conviction. Each case turns on its facts, which is why an early case review matters.

What is diversion and am I eligible?

Diversion is a program (classes, counseling, restitution) that, once completed, results in a dismissal with no conviction. It is common for first-time and lower-level offenses, like shoplifting, minor drug, and some DUI-adjacent cases. We push for it wherever possible.

How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost?

It depends on the charge and complexity. We offer a free, confidential consultation to review your case and explain fees up front, with no surprises. The cost of skilled defense is almost always far less than the cost of a conviction.

Do you handle federal criminal cases?

Yes. Some conduct, large-scale drug, fraud, and firearms cases, can be charged in federal court, which has different procedures and tougher guidelines. We assess and defend exposure in both state and federal court.

When should I hire a criminal defense lawyer?

As early as possible, ideally the moment you are investigated, contacted by police, or arrested. The pre-charge window is often where cases are won, and early involvement preserves evidence and options that disappear quickly.

What happens at an arraignment?

At arraignment you are formally advised of the charges and enter a plea (usually not guilty), and the court addresses release conditions. We appear with you, protect your rights, and begin obtaining the State’s evidence right away.

Will a conviction stay on my record forever?

A conviction generally remains on your record, though Arizona allows certain convictions to be ‘set aside’ and some records to be sealed. The surest protection is avoiding the conviction in the first place, which is our focus from day one.

Will I get a real attorney or a junior associate?

At many large firms the name on the door is a marketing figurehead and your case goes to a rotating associate. At Tamou Law Group your defense is handled by a full team of experienced attorneys, not associates, including founding attorney Michael Tamou. Call 623-321-4699, 24/7.

Visit Us

Two Arizona Offices, One Team

We serve all of Maricopa County and the surrounding area, with free, confidential consultations 24/7 by phone and in-person meetings at either office by appointment.

Case Results Disclaimer: The results described on this page are based on specific facts and circumstances and do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome in any future case. Every case is different. Past results do not guarantee future results. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this page or submitting a contact form until a written fee agreement has been signed. Tamou Law Group, PLLC is licensed to practice law in the State of Arizona. This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

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