Yavapai County Criminal Defense Attorneys

Trial-Ready Representation for Criminal Cases in Arizona

Being accused of a crime can feel terrifying, frustrating, and hopeless, but you don’t have to fight alone. At Cates & Reed, PLLC, we know that even good people find themselves in bad situations. Whether you were unaware of your actions or simply made an honest mistake, you deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

Our criminal defense lawyers are committed to vigorously defending your rights in criminal court. When you work with our attorneys, you can expect trial-ready representation and empathetic counsel every step of the way. Our firm is led by a board-certified criminal law specialist, underscoring our decades-long track record of success in high-stakes criminal cases. 

If you’re facing a criminal charge, we can provide the robust defense you deserve. Call (480) 864-3807 to schedule a consultation.

What Types of Crimes Do You Defend Against? 

Our attorneys defend against a wide range of crimes and handle both misdemeanor and felony offenses, from simple assault to extreme homicide charges like murder and manslaughter. In addition to state crimes, we also defend against federal charges like white-collar crimes and weapon offenses. 

Whether you are a first-time offender or have prior convictions, we are dedicated to providing the strategic defense you deserve. From DUI to domestic violence, we take a personalized approach to every case to explore every available defense and work toward the best possible outcome for your situation. 

What Are the Different Stages of the Criminal Process? 

The criminal process typically involves the following stages:

• Booking. Law enforcement collects the defendant’s photo, fingerprints, and personal information at the county jail or police station. 
• Initial appearance. The defendant hears the formal charges against them. The judge determines eligibility for bail and sets the amount, if applicable.
• Preliminary hearing. This step applies to felony cases, where the judge reviews probable cause and sets an arraignment date. 
• Arraignment. The defendant will enter a formal plea. The judge sets a date for a pre-trial conference, trial date, or sentencing. 
• Discovery. Both sides exchange evidence, file pre-trial motions, and schedule pre-trial proceedings if needed.
• Trial. If a plea agreement is not reached, the case proceeds to trial, where both sides present arguments before a judge (bench trial) or jury. 
• Verdict and sentencing. The judge or jury issues a verdict. If the verdict is guilty, the judge imposes a sentence and penalties. 
• Appeal. The defendant may appeal or file post-conviction motions if procedural issues affected the conviction or sentence.

From entering a plea to filing post-conviction motions, our highly skilled lawyers are well-equipped to guide you through each stage of the criminal process. 

How Long Do I Have to Appeal a Criminal Conviction?

To appeal a criminal conviction, you must file a Notice of Appeal within 14 calendar days. If you fail to file within this timeframe, you may lose your right to appeal, making it critical to consult with our lawyers as soon as possible. We can help you complete local forms, file a timely petition, and present a compelling argument on your behalf before the appellate court.

What Are the Penalties for a Criminal Conviction?

The penalties for a criminal conviction vary widely from case to case. Felony convictions can lead to lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines, while misdemeanors can lead to jail time, community service, probation, and mandatory counseling or treatment. 

Additional consequences include a permanent criminal record, the loss of civil liberties and professional licenses, and mandatory sex offender registration for qualifying sex crimes. Securing a strong defense is paramount to mitigating the long-term impacts of a conviction.

Our attorneys can work tirelessly to reduce the charges, negotiate a favorable plea deal with the prosecution, or advocate for alternative sentencing options when possible to reduce the sentence or avoid incarceration altogether. 

What Is the Difference Between Expunging & Sealing a Criminal Record?

There are two primary ways to limit access to past criminal offenses:

• Expungement completely removes the record as if the offense never occurred, offering a fresh start or “reset” for the defendant. 
• Sealing a record keeps it on file, but restricts who can see it, such as employers and the general public. It can still be accessed by law enforcement.

Not all offenses are eligible for expungement or sealing. We can evaluate your potential eligibility, explain your legal options, guide you through the petition process, and advocate on your behalf to maximize your chance of clearing or limiting access to your record. 

Who Prosecutes Crimes in Yavapai County?

The Yavapai County Attorney’s Office prosecutes felonies throughout the county and misdemeanors in unincorporated areas like Cornville, Rim Rock, and Page Springs. Misdemeanor cases may be prosecuted by local attorneys in the city where the alleged offense occurred. 

When Long Can I Be Detained Before My Initial Appearance?

By law, a defendant must be brought before a judge within 24 hours of arrest. If an initial appearance does not occur within this timeframe, the defendant must be released from custody.

Does Yavapai County Offer Diversion Programs? 

Diversion programs may be available for some non-violent crimes, such as drug possession or first-time DUI offenses. Eligibility is often restricted to first-time or low-risk offenders, and successful completion can lead to a dismissal of charges. Our attorneys are familiar with local courts, prosecutors, and program requirements to guide you through the process and advocate for an outcome that preserves your future.

Preparing for criminal court can be overwhelming. Don’t face this challenging time alone. Contact us online to discuss your case with our elite defense lawyers.