Arrested for a criminal charge in Glendale City Court? A former Glendale City Prosecutor and a former Mesa City Police Sergeant helped design this page. We want to help you avoid some of the traps that people fall into. We invite you to scroll down to read all the information. If we don’t answer a question, please feel free to schedule a free consultation.
Glendale Municipal Court handles misdemeanors. The process to start a case in Glendale can happen in several ways. First, a police officer hands you a ticket. This ticket or citation has the court date on the bottom. Second, the court sends you summons. A summons is a letter that informs you that you have a court date. Finally, you can be arrested and transported to Glendale City Court.
If you fail to appear in court, a warrant can be issued. As a result, you must take the court date seriously. However, if you do not make it to court, there is a way to restart your case. This process is called “quashing” a warrant. If you have a warrant for your arrest, you can call our attorneys and we can help you understand the process to get you back on track.
BEFORE YOU GO TO GLENDALE CITY COURT
Glendale City Court has the following rules. First, appear for court on time. Your case can be called if you are late. Second, wear appropriate clothing. Beachwear, flip flops and torn clothing are not tolerated. Third, mute cell phones and avoid making any disruption. Finally, arrange for childcare before you go to court. Unruly children may get you kicked out of court. In conclusion, approach court in a prepared and professional manner. Call the court before your date. The phone number is 623-930-2400. From time to time, the court makes mistakes. You want to double check that your date is right.
THE ARRAIGNMENT
Glendale City ArraignmentThe first court appearance is the arraignment. You need to know several things about this court date. First, it is not trial. You will not be expected to defend yourself at that case. On the other hand, you are not able to present a defense to the judge. As a result, the judge will typically not listen to the reasons why your case should be dismissed.
Second, you will enter a plea. It is acceptable to enter a plea of “Not Guilty.” There is nothing wrong with telling a judge that you aren’t guilty, even if you are. The court advises you of your charges and the maximum penalties. However, this can scare some people. Don’t be frightened if you hear that you are facing up to six months in jail.
Third, the court will inform you of your release conditions. For example, the court will advise you that you cannot have contact with victims. Avoid the scene of the crime. In some cases the court will advise you that you must pay a bond.
Fourth, the court gives you the next court date. This court date is important. It is the first opportunity that you may have to look at the evidence against you. Be aware, however, that if you fail to appear in this court, a warrant for your arrest can be filed against you.
Finally, the court may appoint a public defender. If you are facing jail time, the court will ask you about your finances. If you have the resources to hire an attorney, the court may not appoint a public defender.
In conclusion, the arraignment, while important, is not a reason to panic.
PRETRIAL CONFERENCE IN GLENDALE MUNICIPAL COURT
At the pretrial conference, the prosecutor will give you the police reports against you. You may be offered a plea agreement. If it is appropriate, the prosecutor will give you a chance to negotiate with them. However, be careful, because your words can be used against you. Also, keep in mind that it is always a good idea to speak with a criminal defense attorney before you talk to the prosecutor. In short, the prosecutor works against you, not for you. Do not view them as your attorney. Furthermore, don’t expect them to give you legal advice.
TRIAL AND DEADLINES
Trial in Glendale City Court rarely last more than a day. The trial can be in front of a judge or jury. Most DUI cases have trial to a jury. However, with Covid-19, many cases are being tried to the court.
At trial, you have the ability to bring witnesses. First, if your case goes to trial, you should speak with a criminal defense attorney. Also, there are some procedural requirements for trial. Second, keep in mind that pretrial deadlines can affect your case. Finally, paperwork usually has to be submitted 15 days before trial.
PLEA AGREEMENTS AND SENTENCING
Glendale SentencingAt sentencing, you will have the ability to ask the judge for leniency. However, if you accepted a plea agreement for a certain penalty, the judge cannot give you a different sentence. As a result, make sure you know the terms of the plea agreement before you sign it.
After sentencing, you will have to go to the fines window to pay your fees. If you do not have an adequate income, the court can place you on a payment plan. However, if you fail to make your payments, a warrant can issue for your arrest.
GLENDALE CITY COURT ATTORNEYS WHO CARE
In conclusion, our team of attorneys is here for you. We understand the stress that a criminal charge can cause. Of course, every case is different. Please call our law firm to schedule a free consultation. If you want to meet by telephone or in the office, the consultation is free. We handle DUI, Assault, Domestic Violence, Shoplifting, trespassing, disorderly conduct and all other misdemeanors. Finally, Elizabeth Maupin, our lead attorney in Glendale, is a former Glendale City Prosecutor. We are very familiar with the court.
The Law Offices of Alcock and Associates, PC is serious about representing people charged in Glendale City. For over two decades, we have achieved success in Glendale and we know how to win. For a complete list of our recent victories, click here.
OUR CRIMINAL DEFENSE VICTORIES
For a free consultation, call us at 602-989-5000
OUR CRIMINAL DEFENSE VICTORIES
For a free consultation, call us at 602-989-5000
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS
Glendale City Court Address
5711 W Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Phone Number 623-930-2400
Here at Alcock and Associates our team and staff are dedicated to helping and representing YOU. The first step is to understand your case. We will take the time to get to know you and your legal situation so that we are best able to answer all of your questions. After your initial consultation with our attorneys, you will know what you are facing and what can happen to your case.
EVERY CONSULTATION IS COMPLETELY FREE AND COMPLETELY CONFIDENTIAL.
Alcock & Associates P.C.
2 North Central Avenue, 26th Floor
Phoenix AZ 85004