About D Patterson
My firm specializes in Criminal Defense. I have over twenty years experience in Criminal Law and have successfully defended hundreds of felony and misdemeanor criminal cases.
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Education
- Law School: Arizona State
Common questions about Criminal Defense in Arizona
Answered by Arizona Attorney Search Network
Can a criminal record be sealed in Arizona?
Yes, under ARS § 13-911 (effective January 2023), many Arizona criminal records can be sealed after a waiting period and full completion of the sentence. Class 1 misdemeanors and Class 4 felonies require a 5-year wait; Class 2 or 3 felonies require 10 years; certain violent and sexual offenses are not eligible. Sealed records are treated as if they never existed for most purposes, though law enforcement retains access.
Do I have to talk to police if I'm arrested in Arizona?
No. The Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and Article 2 § 10 of the Arizona Constitution protect your right to remain silent. Once you have invoked the right (clearly state 'I am invoking my right to remain silent and want a lawyer'), questioning must stop until counsel is present. You must still provide identifying information when lawfully arrested, but you are not required to discuss the alleged offense.
What is a plea bargain and how common is it in Arizona?
A plea bargain is a negotiated agreement between the prosecutor and defendant for a reduced charge, reduced sentence, or both, in exchange for a guilty or no-contest plea. Roughly 90-95% of Arizona criminal cases resolve by plea rather than trial. The judge must accept the plea (Rule 17, Arizona Rules of Criminal Procedure) and confirm that it is knowing, intelligent, and voluntary.
Q&As answered by D Patterson
Practice Areas
Notable Case Results
Office Location
Law Office of D Bryce Patterson
PO BOX 236
Saint Johns, AZ 85936
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