Goodyear Criminal and DUI Defense

Former Police Officer

Former Prosecutor

Twenty Years Criminal & DUI Defense

Call (480) 833-8613

 

You face severe consequences if arrested and prosecuted in the City of Goodyear.  Aside from penalties imposed by the court, including jail, probation, fines and counseling classes, you  also risk losing a fingerprint clearance card, job and housing opportunities or difficulty being admitted to the school of your choice.  Consequently, you should immediately contact an experienced Criminal and DUI Defense Lawyer if arrested in Goodyear, Arizona and being cited to appear in court there. I have practiced DUI and Criminal Defense in  Goodyear as well as surrounding cities during the last twenty years and have obtained tremendous results for my clients.  My experience as a police officer, detective and prosecutor allows me to quickly identify favorable facts and use them on my clients' behalf to get great results.  

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GOODYEAR CRIMINAL DEFENSE

All Criminal Charges Are Serious

Any domestic violence offense, misdemeanor or felony charge can have  a negative impact on your future.  Aside from a potential jail or prison sentence, convictions could also result in:

  • Probation
  • Mandatory Counseling
  • Fines and Fees
  • Loss of Gun Ownership Rights
  • Loss of Important Civil Rights such as the Right to Vote
  • Forfeiture of Professional Licenses or Fingerprint Clearance Cards
  • Inability to Obtain Credit, Housing or Gainful Employment

Attorney Raymond Kimble Defends All Charges Including:

The Maximum Penalties for a Misdemeanor Offenses Are:

1.   Class 1 Misdemeanor - Six Months Jail, $2,500 fine plus surcharges and three years probation

2.   Class 2 Misdemeanor - Three Months Jail, $750 fine plus surcharges and three years probation

3.   Class 3 Misdemeanor - Thirty Days Jail, $500 fine plus surcharges and three years probation

The Potential Punishment for Felony Crimes Are:

1.   Class 1 Felony -  Life in Prison

2.   Class 2 Felony -   Between 3 and 12.5 years in prison, up to 7 years probation (which may include one year in jail) and $150,000 in fines

3.   Class 3 Felony - Between 2 and 8.75 years in prison, up to 5 years probation (which may include one year in jail) and $150,000 in fines

4.   Class 4 Felony - Between 1 and 3.75 years in prison, up to 4 years probation (which may include one year in jail) and $150,000 in fines

5.   Class 5 Felony - Between 6 months and 2.5 years in prison, up to 3 years probation (which may include one year in jail) and $150,000 in fines

6.   Class 6 Felony - Between 4 months and 2 years in prison, up to 3 years probation (which may include one year in jail) and $150,000 in fines

You should be aware that felony crimes which are classified as Dangerous Offenses, Sex Assault and Sex Offenses committed against children have special sentencing provisions which require mandatory prison sentences greater than the general felony offenses listed above. Additionally, people who have prior felony convictions are also at risk of being classified as "repeat offenders" and sentenced to greater prison terms.

Have You Been Charged with a Domestic Violence Offense?

Domestic violence involves alleged crimes committed by spouses, family members, individuals who live together, or people involved in an intimate relationship against each other. Domestic violence offenses can be classified as misdemeanor or felony crimes and can result in a permanent conviction, probation, jail or prison terms.  Additionally, you may permanently lose your right to possess or own a firearm if convicted of certain domestic violence offenses.  

 Under Arizona law, domestic violence can include, but is not limited to the following offenses:

  • Abuse of a Child or Vulnerable Adult Abuse                                                               
  • Aggravated Assault
  • Assault
  • Criminal Trespass
  • Custodial Interference
  • Dangerous Crimes against Children
  • Disorderly Conduct
  • Endangerment
  • Harassment
  • Interfering with Judicial Proceedings
  • Kidnapping or Unlawful Imprisonment
  • Manslaughter
  • Murder
  • Negligent Homicide
  • Sexual Assault
  • Stalking
  • Threatening and Intimidating

Potential Defenses to a Criminal Charge?

Whether you've been charged with a misdemeanor or felony offense it is important to contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer who can evaluate the facts of your case and aggressively use any available defenses to obtain the most favorable outcome.  Perhaps the most important concept in criminal cases is that the prosecutor carries the burden of proving individuals "guilty of a crime beyond a reasonable doubt."  

Some Defenses Against a Criminal Charge Include:

  1. Self Defense
  2. Defense of a Third Person
  3. Defense of Property
  4. Illegal Search
  5. Violation of Miranda Warnings
  6. Being "merely present" when a crime was committed but not aiding or participating in any way
  7. Not intending to commit a criminal act
  8. Consent
  9. Duress

What Misdemeanor Offenses Do We Defend?

During the last twenty years, Attorney, Raymond Kimble has successfully defended people charged with various misdemeanor offenses throughout Maricopa and Pinal Counties.  Although the potential penalty for a misdemeanor conviction can involve probation, up to six months jail and fines of $2,500, an experienced attorney can help to have charges dismissed or to avoid harsh results such as probation and jail. 

Some of the misdemeanor charges Mr. Kimble commonly defends people against include:

  1. Domestic Violence
  2. Prostitution
  3. Shoplifting
  4. Assault
  5. Theft
  6. Criminal Damage

What Court Will You Appear In?

When charged with a crime, you will be ordered to appear in a City, Justice or Superior Court.   City and Justice Courts have jurisdiction over DUI, misdemeanor and traffic offenses while Superior Courts preside over more serious felony cases. The Court you are ordered to appear in will depend upon the classification of the criminal charge and what police department was responsible for your arrest.  There are three types of courts which preside over violations of Arizona's criminal statutes.  These include:

1. City Courts - Will have jurisdiction over misdemeanor offenses which are investigated by the local police department

2. Justice Courts - Have jurisdiction over misdemeanor offenses which are investigated by the sheriff's office or Department of Public Safety

3. Superior Courts - Preside over felony crimes which occur in the county where the court is located.

What to Expect During Representation?

Ray Kimble is a former Police Officer, and Felony Prosecutor who has been defending people charged with misdemeanor and felony crimes throughout Maricopa and Pinal Counties during the last twenty years.  Mr. Kimble prides himself on being accessible to his clients at all times, including nights and weekends by cell phone, text message or e-mail.  If a client has a question or concern, Mr. Kimble prefers that it be addressed immediately.  Additionally, Ray Kimble offers his clients:

1. Experience - Mr. Kimble was a police officer and detective for ten years, a DUI and Felony Prosecutor and has been practicing DUI and Criminal Defense for over twenty years.

2. Personal Attention - Mr. Kimble will be solely responsible for your case and be directly accessible to you during business hours, at night and on weekends.

3. Full Investigation of Your Case - This includes reviewing police reports, body camera video, laboratory results, witness statements and consultation with you concerning the alleged incident. Mr. Kimble will also consult with necessary experts to assist in your defense.

4. Research - Legal Issues as well as circumstances concerning the facts of your case or important witnesses will be closely examined. 

5.  Effective Negotiations  - Often, intelligently crafted negotiations can lead to a reduction or dismissal of charges.

6. Clear Guidance - Mr. Kimble will fully evaluate your case and recommend the best course of action.     

Read About Our Criminal Defense Success

 

Call (480) 833-8613 for Help Now

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GOODYEAR DUI DEFENSE

Charged with DUI in Goodyear?

Raymond Kimble Represents Individuals Charged with All Types of DUI's Including:

1.  Why Did Police Charge Me With Multiple DUI's? 

Arizona has several types of DUI charges which are dependent upon your alcohol concentration.  Arresting officers will usually charge you with as many offenses as possible in order to make their case as strong as possible.  You may have several DUI charges on the citation issued by officers or the complaint you received from the court. The  potential jail time, fines and ignition interlock requirements will increase based on the level of DUI charge you are convicted of.

DUI Charges in Arizona Include:

  • Impaired to the Slightest Degree - This charge essentially alleges that your driving ability was lessened to any degree because of alcohol, drugs or a combination of those things which you may have consumed. Police and prosecutors do not need a specific alcohol concentration to prosecute you for this offense.  It can be based on a combination of factors such as your driving behavior, physical appearance, statements about drinking or drug use and performance on the field sobriety tests.   
  • Alcohol Concentration Above .08% - It is illegal to drive or be in actual physical control of a motor vehicle in Arizona with an alcohol concentration above .08% as measured by a breathalyzer or blood test within two hours of driving.
  • Extreme DUI Above .15% - It is illegal to drive or be in actual physical control of a motor vehicle in Arizona with an alcohol concentration above .15% as measured by a breathalyzer or blood test within two hours of driving.
  • Super Extreme DUI Above .20% - It is illegal to drive or be in actual physical control of a motor vehicle in Arizona with an alcohol concentration above .20% as measured by a breathalyzer or blood test within two hours of driving.
  • Drug DUI - It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle in Arizona with an illegal drug such as methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, etc. or a metabolite of that drug in your system. In cases such as these, prosecutors are not required to prove you were impaired.  Rather, they only need to show that you were driving and that an illegal drug was in your system.  This is usually illustrated by a blood or urine test.  

2. What are the Penalties for a DUI Conviction?

The penalties for a DUI conviction in Goodyear are governed by state law.  Undoubtedly, the State of Arizona imposes some of the harshest consequences in the nation upon people who have been convicted of DUI.  Unfortunately, a DUI conviction in Arizona requires individuals to serve mandatory jail sentences.  The jail time imposed for a DUI will depend upon the level of offense and whether you have prior DUI convictions within the last seven years.  

Jail Sentences for DUI Include:

1.   Impaired to the Slightest Degree, DUI Above .08% or a Drug Related DUI - A sentence of ten days jail although nine days may be suspended upon the successful completion of alcohol or drug screening and treatment. 

2.  Extreme DUI - If you are convicted of driving with an alcohol concentration above .15%, the minimum penalty is 30 days jail.  Twenty one days jail can be suspended by placing a certified ignition interlock device in your vehicle for one year following conviction.  If eligible, you may also be able to serve a portion of your jail term through home detention or continuous alcohol monitoring. 

3.  Super Extreme DUI - If you are convicted of driving with an alcohol concentration above .20%, the minimum penalty is 45 days jail. Thirty one days jail can be suspended by placing a certified ignition interlock device in your vehicle for one year following conviction.  If eligible, you may also be able to serve a portion of your jail term through home detention or continuous alcohol monitoring. 

4. DUI with Prior Convictions During the Last Seven Years - If you have a prior DUI conviction within the last seven years of your current offense, the potential jail sentences will increase significantly.  Specifically, and depending upon the type of DUI your are charged with, you may be required to serve anywhere from ninety days to six months in jail.  In certain situations the jail time can be reduced upon completion of alcohol education classes or through participation in a home detention program.

Aside from mandatory jail terms, a DUI conviction will result in huge fines and fees, probation, alcohol or drug education classes, the suspension of your drivers license and installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.

3. Can a DUI Charge in Goodyear be Defended?

The short answer is yes. Although prosecutors in Goodyear strictly enforce the state's DUI laws, there are a number of defenses which can be evaluated and used to get a charge dismissed, reduced or even argued at trial. On many occasions, I have helped people obtain a complete dismissal of their DUI case or have substantially reduced the penalties my clients initially faced.  Because the penalties for DUI are so severe, people who have been arrested should immediately contact an experienced DUI lawyer who is able to perform a thorough investigation, recognize important issues and work to obtain a favorable result.  

Some possible defenses which can be used to avoid a DUI conviction include:

  • Lack of Driving or Actual Physical Control 
  • No Reasonable Suspicion to Stop
  • No Probable Cause to Arrest
  • Improperly Administered Field Sobriety Tests (FST's)
  • Right to Counsel Violations 
  • Violation of Miranda Warnings
  • Inaccuracy of the Breathalyzer Device
  • Retrograde Extrapolation
  • Deficiencies in Blood Alcohol Testing & Issues in Blood Cases
  • Denial of an Independent Blood Test

These issues can be used to challenge the prosecutor's evidence or the strength of their case, argue that evidence should be suppressed, negotiate a favorable result or show that the case is not strong enough for a jury to find you guilty beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

4. Will My Driver's License Be Suspended Due to a DUI?

If you are arrested for DUI and refuse to participate in blood, breath or urine testing,  or alternatively, take a blood or breath test and have an alcohol concentration above .08,  an automatic suspension of your driver's license may go into effect. How long your driving privileges are suspended depends upon whether you agreed to a blood or breathalyzer test or whether you refused to take a test. If you agreed to participate in blood or breath testing, the suspension will last ninety days.  Refusing to take a test will result in a potential license revocation of one year.  Usually, the arresting officer will serve you with notice of the suspension at the time of your arrest.  This driver's license suspension, also known as an administrative license suspension, is a civil penalty which is separate and apart from any penalties imposed by the court. Moreover, these license suspensions many still occur even if the underlying DUI charge is dismissed.

Be aware that you only have a very short period of time to request a Hearing with the Division of Motor Vehicles in order to challenge or postpone the suspension of your drivers license after being arrested for DUI.  Once the time period to request a hearing has expired, the suspension will automatically become effective and cannot be reversed.  Consequently, you should consult with an attorney as soon as possible after being arrested for DUI and served with a license suspension notice.  

If a request for hearing to challenge the suspension of your drivers license is submitted in a timely manner,  the Department of Transportation will schedule an Administrative Hearing within thirty days.   The suspension of your license will also be placed on hold until after a decision has been made by the administrative law judge at the hearing.

The issues addressed at a DUI license suspension hearing are very limited.  These include whether the arresting officer had reasonable grounds to believe you were:

  1. Driving or in actual physical control of a motor vehicle,
  2. Under the influence of liquor or drugs,
  3. Placed under arrest for DUI,
  4. Refused to submit to testing after being advised of the consequences,  or
  5. Completed a blood or breath test and there was an alcohol concentration above .08.

While representing clients who have been charged with DUI, I always request a Hearing aimed at protecting your driving privileges and will work to help you avoid a suspension or obtain a restricted license or work permit.

5. Can I Get My Car Out of Impound?

In Arizona, your car can be impounded if you are charged with:

  1.  Driving on a suspended license 
  2.  Driving with alcohol in your system when under 21 years of age
  3.  Extreme DUI
  4.  Aggravated DUI

Your vehicle can be impounded for thirty days and can only be released after certain fees are paid.  The required payment includes a $150 administrative fee and charges of $15 per day for storing your vehicle at the tow yard.  You can request a Hearing and  ask that your car be released immediately.  However, the hold on your vehicle will only be lifted under very limited circumstances.  Additionally, your car can be released to a third party such as your spouse or any other person who was included on the car title prior to your arrest.

Call (480) 833-8613 for Help Now

As a former police officer, DUI prosecutor and experienced DUI attorney, I know the criminal justice system, how prosecutors and police officers think and how to attack a DUI case from all angles.  I have represented thousands of people from all walks of life who have been charged with serious offenses and have expertise in achieving a dismissal of the charges, negotiating favorable agreements and conducting jury trials in all types of DUI cases. If you have been arrested or charged with a DUI in Goodyear or any city in Maricopa or Pinal County, call for immediate help.

Read About My DUI Success
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Goodyear Municipal Court

14455 West Van Buren, #B101

Goodyear, AZ 

(623) 882-7200