Criminal Defense FAQ

Answers to Common Criminal Law Questions

Were you or a loved one arrested recently? Are you facing criminal charges? You are likely faced with thousands of questions. Our team of criminal lawyers has provided answers to some of the most common questions about criminal law that the firm receives. For answers to additional questions or for an evaluation of your case, feel free to contact our firm directly.

Q: What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?

A: All crimes are classified as either a felony or a misdemeanor. Misdemeanors are lower level crimes that result in no more than one year in jail. Common types of misdemeanor offenses include petty theft, DUI, possessing small amounts of marijuana, probation violations, and domestic violence.

Felonies are very serious criminal offenses that result in no less than one year in state or federal prison upon conviction. Knowles Law Firm, PLC is capable of defending clients against a wide variety of felony crimes, such as kidnapping, auto theft, most sex crimes, most drug crimes, most white collar crimes, murder & manslaughter, assault & battery, weapons crimes, and more.

Q: Will I go to jail?

A: The chances of you going to jail or prison will depend on the criminal charges you are facing. If you have been convicted of a misdemeanor offense, the chances that you will go to jail are much less likely than if you were convicted on felony charges. If you have been charged with a felony, and are found guilty, it is almost certain that you will be sentenced to some time in jail or prison.

The best way to avoid going to jail or prison is to hire an experienced and aggressive Phoenix criminal defense attorney like Anthony Knowles to protect your rights and fight your criminal charges.

Q: What penalties could I face if I’m convicted?

A: The penalties you will face will depend on the type of crime you committed. A conviction for a misdemeanor crime could result in fines, probation, mandatory community service, driver’s license suspension, and a mark on your permanent record. You could also be sentenced to no more than one year in jail. If you are convicted of a felony you will certainly be sentenced to at least one year in prison, possibly more. You will also face higher fines, more hours of community service, stricter probation, and a mark on your permanent record.

Q: Can I get my charges reduced or dropped altogether?

A: In some cases, attorney Anthony Knowles will be able to negotiate with the judge or prosecution to have your charges reduced or dismissed. However, it would be unethical for Mr. Knowles to promise that he can get a reduction or dismissal for every client. Mr. Knowles’ ability to have your charges reduced or dismissed depends largely on the crime you have committed, as well as your prior criminal history and the unique circumstances of the case.

Q: What is an expungement?

A: An expungement is the legal process of clearing a person’s criminal record. Attorney Knowles can help you clear any criminal charges or arrests that may appear on your record. The only thing that cannot be expunged from your record is a criminal conviction.

Because your criminal record is a matter of public record, expungements are incredibly valuable. Many people with an arrest history or criminal charges on their record experience difficultly finding a job, qualifying for loans, or even finding a place to live, as landlords, banks, loan officers, employers, educational institutions, etc. can view your criminal history. By expunging your record, your criminal history will no longer be available to the public.

More questions? Ask our Defense Attorneys!

Hiring an experienced defense lawyer to handle your case will be extremely beneficial. Phoenix Attorney Anthony Knowles has over 20 years of experience in the Arizona criminal justice system, and can help you take on the powerful state or federal attorneys trying to put you in jail. Mr. Knowles and the rest of the skilled attorneys at Knowles Law Firm, PLC have handled thousands of criminal cases and can provide you with the attention, advice and guidance you need to get through this difficult and often overwhelming process.

Knowles Law Firm, PLC works relentlessly on behalf of its clients and takes the time to build the most compelling defenses possible. Furthermore, Mr. Knowles never backs down from the prosecution, and always stands up for his clients and negotiates for an outcome that would serve their best interest. There is nothing more important to this firm than providing clients with the attentive legal counsel and uncompromising defense they need to win their cases.