What kind of legal advice is available to a person arrested for DUI in Arizona?
Phoenix, AZ – There were local news reports out of the Phoenix area that a suspect was arrested following a fatal DUI crash [1].
One death and two injuries reported after drunk driving incident
A crash in west Phoenix on Saturday, July 13, 2024, left one man dead and injured two adults and two children. The incident occurred at the intersection of 35th and Southern avenues, involving two vehicles. Phoenix police responded around 5:42 p.m. and found 44-year-old Henry Mandley ejected from one of the vehicles with serious injuries. He was transported to the hospital but was pronounced dead the following morning.
The vehicle Mandley was in was driven by a woman and had two children as passengers. All three sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were taken to the hospital. The relationship between Mandley and the others in the vehicle was not disclosed.
The other vehicle involved was driven by 22-year-old Fernando Rodriguez-Sanchez. According to police, Rodriguez-Sanchez was driving east on Southern Avenue, using a bike lane to pass stopped traffic before running a red light at the intersection, colliding with the vehicle Mandley was in, which was traveling south on 35th Avenue.
Rodriguez-Sanchez and a passenger fled the scene but were apprehended by officers nearby. Police suspected impairment, and Rodriguez-Sanchez was arrested for DUI. He faces several charges, including aggravated assault, endangerment, failure to remain at the scene of a fatal collision, and felony DUI.
The incident remains under investigation as authorities continue to gather details.
How does a criminal defense attorney assist a person charged with drunk driving crimes in Arizona?
A criminal defense attorney plays a crucial role in assisting individuals charged with drunk driving (DUI) crimes in Arizona by guiding them through the legal process, protecting their rights, and working to minimize the consequences of the charge. Here are several key ways a defense attorney can help:
- Legal Representation and Guidance
A DUI charge can be complex, involving both criminal and administrative penalties. An attorney provides expert knowledge of Arizona’s DUI laws, ensuring the defendant understands the charges, the potential penalties, and their legal options. The attorney will explain how the case will proceed, what evidence is relevant, and the possible outcomes, offering clarity in an often overwhelming situation.
- Challenging Evidence
One of the primary roles of a defense attorney is to scrutinize the evidence against the defendant. This can include challenging the validity of field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results, or blood alcohol concentration (BAC) testing. If the arresting officer did not follow proper procedures during the arrest, an attorney could argue to have certain evidence suppressed or the case dismissed altogether.
- Negotiating with Prosecutors
An experienced defense attorney may be able to negotiate with the prosecution for a reduction in criminal charges. For instance, if the evidence is weak, the attorney might secure a plea deal where the charge is reduced from DUI to reckless driving, which carries less severe penalties. Negotiations can help minimize fines, avoid jail time, or reduce the length of license suspension.
- Mitigating Penalties
If a conviction is likely, the attorney works to mitigate the penalties. This can involve advocating for lesser punishments such as reduced fines, alternative sentencing options like alcohol education classes, or community service instead of jail time. In some cases, they may help clients retain driving privileges through a restricted or hardship license.
- Representation in Court
A defense attorney represents the defendant in court, presenting arguments and evidence on their behalf. They ensure that the defendant’s rights are upheld throughout the proceedings, cross-examine witnesses, and present legal defenses to convince the court of their client’s case.
In summary, a criminal defense attorney provides vital assistance by protecting the accused’s rights, challenging evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and working to reduce the penalties for DUI charges in Arizona.
Criminal defense attorneys in Phoenix
There are defense attorneys available to help with the process following an arrest in the Phoenix, AZ area. The experienced attorneys at Oliverson Law PLLC offer consultations to those who need legal advice.
USAttorneys.com is a lawyer referral service. To speak with a local lawyer anywhere in the country, call 800-672-3103
Firm contact info:
60 East Rio Salado Parkway, Suite 900, Tempe, AZ 85281
480-582-3637
https://oliversonlaw.com/
Sources:
- https://www.12news.com/article/traffic/35th-southern-avenue-dui-crash-phoenix/75-a8281ad6-5c04-4bb7-9d6c-d75198bd3cf6
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