Scott Ruffner
Ruffner Law PLLC
Lake Havasu City, Arizona • Serving Mohave County
About Scott Ruffner
Scott Ruffner is a criminal-defense attorney at Ruffner Law PLLC representing clients in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. Criminal defense practice in Arizona involves charges under Title 13 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, ranging from misdemeanors (Classes 1-3) to felonies (Classes 1-6), with each class carrying different sentencing exposure and collateral consequences. Contact information appears below.
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Education
- Law School: Whittier
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.
How long does a criminal case take in Arizona?
Misdemeanors typically resolve within 60-180 days from arraignment. Felonies most commonly take 6-18 months from filing to resolution; complex or multi-defendant cases can run 2 or more years. Defendants have speedy-trial rights under Rule 8 of the Arizona Rules of Criminal Procedure: in custody felony cases must be tried within 150 days of arraignment, out-of-custody within 180 days, with limited extensions.
Q&As answered by Scott Ruffner
Practice Areas
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Office Location
Ruffner Law PLLC
PO Box 383
Lake Havasu City, AZ 86405
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