October 28, 2026 / Criminal Defense

What Criminal Offenses Are Deportable?

Criminal convictions can carry serious immigration consequences for noncitizen defendants, including lawful permanent residents (green card holders), visa holders, and undocumented individuals.  While not every conviction will result in deportation, certain offenses under Arizona law may trigger removal or negatively impact a person’s ability to remain in or return to the United States. Some categories […]

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October 20, 2026 / Arizona Law

Who Decides Sentencing in a Criminal Case: The Judge or the Jury?

In most Arizona criminal cases, the judge decides the sentence, not the jury. A jury generally determines whether the defendant is guilty, while the judge determines the punishment under Arizona law. However, juries may also have a role in sentencing when certain aggravating factors must be established. Arizona sentencing laws consider the offense, the defendant’s […]

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October 20, 2026 / Criminal Defense

Do All Criminal Cases Have Juries in Arizona?

No, not all criminal cases in Arizona require a jury trial. All felony charges carry the right to a jury, but some misdemeanors are decided by a judge alone. Whether a case qualifies for a jury trial depends on the seriousness of the offense and applicable Arizona law. The right to a jury trial is […]

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October 14, 2026 / DUI Defense

Can You Get Expelled From the University of Arizona for Underage Drinking?

Yes, the University of Arizona can expel a student for alcohol-related misconduct, but expulsion is not the typical result of a first underage drinking violation. Most first-time student conduct cases result in educational sanctions rather than removal from the university. Serious misconduct, repeated violations, or existing disciplinary problems can change that outcome. Students in Tucson, […]

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October 14, 2026 / Criminal Defense

What Is a Disposition Hearing in Criminal Court?

There is a common assumption that every criminal case ends with a dramatic courtroom trial. In reality, the vast majority of cases in Arizona are resolved well before that stage through a process that many defendants are not familiar with. One of the most important steps in that process is the disposition hearing. A disposition […]

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October 6, 2026 / Sex Crimes

What Is Online Solicitation of a Minor?

Text messages, social media, dating apps, and other online platforms make it possible to communicate with someone without ever meeting face-to-face. When those conversations become sexual and involve a minor, however, the messages themselves can lead to a serious sex crimes investigation in Tucson, Arizona. The term “online solicitation of a minor” refers to a […]

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September 30, 2026 / Criminal Defense

5 Telltale Signs of a Bad Lawyer

When you are facing criminal charges, you need a lawyer who listens, prepares, and explains what is happening in your case. It can be hard to judge the quality of representation while you are under stress, especially if you have never hired a defense attorney before. A disappointing outcome does not, by itself, mean you […]

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September 29, 2026 / Criminal Defense

Tips for an Effective Character Letter for a Judge in Tucson

A character letter is a written statement from someone who knows the defendant and can tell the court about their background, conduct, responsibilities, and positive qualities. In criminal cases, defendants and other interested persons may submit letters for the court’s consideration before sentencing.  A judge deciding on a sentence sees the offense, the criminal history, […]

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