Can a cop search my home or vehicle without consent just because he smells marijuana? This question is one I field on a regular basis as new clients seek out an experienced marijuana defense attorney. “After all,” the new client will invariable ask, “isn’t medical marijuana now legal in this state.” Unfortunately, when it comes to probable cause … [Read more...] about Marijuana Defense Attorney | Does the Odor of Marijuana Justify Probable Cause for a Search?
Criminal Defense Attorney in Arizona
Criminal Law and Mental Health | Criminal Defense Attorney
As a criminal defense attorney who has worked in the mental health field, I was surprised to learn that on July 27, 2016, a federal judge ordered the release of John Hinckley, Jr. from the mental health facility to which he was committed in 1982. The news that President Reagan’s would-be assassin will be released into society brings renewed … [Read more...] about Criminal Law and Mental Health | Criminal Defense Attorney
Domestic Violence – Child Custody (Legal Decision-Making)
As an attorney practicing both criminal defense and family law, I often handle cases in which one parent accuses the other of domestic violence. If my client has been accused, the question is always the same: can I lose custody of my children because of such accusations?Arizona law no longer refers to “child custody.” Instead, parents have rights … [Read more...] about Domestic Violence – Child Custody (Legal Decision-Making)
DUI Driver’s License Suspension Changes | DUI Defense Attorney
Arizona Finally Removes Driver License Disparity in Misdemeanor DUI Cases.As a former police officer turned DUI defense attorney, I have represented numerous misdemeanor and felony DUI clients in every county in Arizona. Some clients fixate on the potential jail time. Others are troubled by the obnoxious fines and fees. But sooner or later, … [Read more...] about DUI Driver’s License Suspension Changes | DUI Defense Attorney
Can Medical Marijuana result in Child Abuse charges?
As a seasoned Mesa criminal defense attorney, I have defended many parents who have been arrested on child abuse or child endangerment charges simply because the adult’s life choices place him or her near illegal drugs on a daily basis. These are not typical child abuse cases, such as when children are neglected or corporal punishment has gone … [Read more...] about Can Medical Marijuana result in Child Abuse charges?
Criminal Defense Attorney and the 50th Anniversary of Miranda
As a criminal defense attorney it is notable to me that June 13, 2016, marks the 50th anniversary of one of the U.S. Supreme Court’s most famous decisions. Thanks to the Miranda opinion, anyone who has seen a TV crime drama is familiar with four standard warnings:You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be held against you in … [Read more...] about Criminal Defense Attorney and the 50th Anniversary of Miranda