There is No Substitute For Experience.

"I learned a long time ago if you do things like everyone else does, you will end up average. We do not strive to be average, we strive to be exceptional. I encourage you to call me directly to discuss your case.”

-Arizona Criminal Attorney Dwane Cates

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Violent Crime Attorneys in Phoenix

Our firm has a strong history of successfully representing clients in cases involving various violent offenses. If you or a loved one is facing charges related to violent crimes, it’s essential to have a dedicated attorney with the right experience by your side. At Cates & Reed, PLLC, our team is committed to protecting the rights and liberties of our clients.

We understand that facing charges related to violent crimes can be a stressful and intimidating experience. That’s why we approach every case with compassion and understanding, while also aggressively fighting for our clients’ rights.

If you or a loved one is charged with a violent crime in Phoenix, remember that you don’t have to face the legal process alone. Contact Cates & Reed, PLLC today for a consultation.

What Is Considered a Violent Crime in Arizona?

Class 3 Misdemeanor Assault

A simple assault in which the offender in any way touched someone else with the intent to either provoke, injure, or otherwise harm them. A Class 3 misdemeanor assault may result in as many as 30 days in jail with fines up to $500.

Class 2 Misdemeanor Assault

When a simple assault is given a class 2 misdemeanor charge, it means the alleged offender threatened to harm or cause injury to someone else, and carries with it a potential for up to 4 months in jail, along with up to $750 in fines.

Class 1 Misdemeanor Assault

A simple assault is a class one misdemeanor because, allegedly, the assault resulted in physical injury or actual harm to another person. If convicted, this charge can result in up to 6 months in jail and fines of up to $2,500.

Aggravated Assault

The way a misdemeanor assault becomes a felony aggravated assault when the assault is aggravated, or made worse, by some other factor. The most common factors that aggravate an assault are when the assaulter uses a weapon or causes serious physical injury to another person.

Major reasons an assault becomes considered an aggravated assault:

If the assault causes “serious physical injury.”
If “a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument” was used during the assault.
If the assault causes temporary but substantial “disfigurement” or “loss or impairment of a bodily organ” or if it causes a fracture.
If the victim is bound, restrained, or their ability to resist is “substantially impaired.”
If the assault occurs in the victim’s home.
If an adult commits an assault on a child under 15.
If the defendant knows that the victim is a police officer.
If the defendant knows the victim is a firefighter, health care practitioner, teacher, prosecutor, public defender, or judge, and the victim is engaging in their public duties when the assault takes place.
If the defendant takes or attempts to take a police officer’s weapon during the assault.
If a prisoner assaults a guard.
If the defendant uses a “simulated deadly weapon” during the assault.

If you have been accused of the above violent crimes in Phoenix, call us at (480) 864-3807. We also represent clients in Kingman, Yuma, Prescott, Florence, and Holbrook.

Robbery

Robbery is a class 4 felony charge that is different from theft in that it requires use of force or threat in the presence of the victim.

Under Arizona’s theft laws, a person commits robbery if:

In the course of taking any property of another from his person or immediate presence and against his will, such person threatens or uses force against any person with intent either to coerce surrender of property or to prevent resistance to such person taking or retaining property.
If you are convicted of Robbery charges, you could face probation or up to 15 years in prison, with sentencing influenced by the presence of prior felony convictions.

Aggravated Robbery

Aggravated robbery is defined as a robbery committed with one or more accomplices.

As stipulated by the Arizona criminal code, aggravated robbery is classified as a class 3 felony, making it a more severe offense compared to a standard robbery charge. Consequently, the potential penalties for aggravated robbery include probation with a maximum of one (1) year in county jail, or a prison sentence ranging from two (2) to eight and three-quarters (8.75) years in a state correctional facility. However, an individual’s prior criminal record can significantly affect sentencing.

Armed Robbery

An armed robbery offense occurs when an individual commits a robbery while either being in possession of a dangerous weapon (or simulated weapon) or by threatening to use a dangerous weapon (or simulated weapon). This form of robbery offense is particularly severe due to the presence or threat of a weapon.

As delineated in the state’s criminal code, armed robbery is classified as a class 2 felony, categorized as a ‘dangerous offense’ felony within Arizona. Consequently, the potential penalties for armed robbery are notably harsh. In the event of a conviction for armed robbery, the defendant may potentially face a prison sentence ranging from seven (7) to twenty-one (21) years in a state correctional facility. It’s essential to bear in mind that if the defendant possesses a prior criminal record that includes a ‘dangerous’ offense conviction, these penalties can be heightened.

Kidnapping

Kidnapping is a crime in the state of Arizona and is defined as “knowingly restraining another person” intending to hold the person for reasons such as collecting ransom, using the person as a shield, inflicting serious harm or killing the person, interrupting a political event, or to take control of a plane, bus, or other vehicle.

Often, kidnapping charges come within the definition of A.R.S. 13-1304 because a hostage is taken to “aid in the commission of a felony.”

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10/10 would recommend.
“Aaron is an excellent lawyer. Every bit of information he said was always clear and concise he explained everything to where it made sense, and never left me guessing about what’s going on.”

- Former Client
The Best Legal Representation I Could Ask For.
“Working with Aaron Reed was the best decision I could have made. From day one, he listened to me, explained everything clearly, and guided me through each step of the process.”

- Former Client
I can definitely recommend Dwane Cates and his team of very professional lawyers to represent you.
“He, Brooklyn and Hayley guided our family through the legal process with expertise and kindness when we had no idea how to proceed. Thank you to the whole team!”

- Former Client
I’ve had multiple cases that I’ve hired Dwayne Cates law firm. Aaron Reed and Sam Chase were God Sent.
“From Showing up to Court Dates when I was absent, to going the extra mile to help me across state lines from Alabama to Arizona to handle my case like I had family in Phoenix helping me.”

- Former Client
Aaron was amazing honestly.
“He set me up for success and got me a deal we didn’t think was possible. He was emotionally supportive as well as informative about my case.”

- Former Client
I highly recommend Mr. Cates for his exceptional legal services.
“Mr. Cates patiently addressed all my questions, no matter how trivial, with clarity and professionalism. Even during challenging moments, he remained empathetic and supportive, accommodating my emotional needs with kindness.”

- Former Client
DWAYNE WAS Great.
“got all charges drop and the Staff was great. Samantha was always There when you need them.”

- Former Client
Aaron Reed and Sam Chase were God Sent.
“From Showing up to Court Dates when I was absent, to going the extra mile to help me across state lines from Alabama to Arizona to handle my case like I had family in Phoenix helping me.”

- Former Client
Best of the Best!!! 2nd to none!!! Fights for you!!!
“Aaron was available 24/7 via phone or text he never once made me feel that I was wasting his time or that my questions were not relevant. You cannot go wrong hiring Aaron to represent you, Aaron will put 110% into your case and it shows.”

- Former Client

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