Arizona’s Top Criminal Defense Law Firm
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Tucson Criminal Defense Attorney
Hernandez Hamilton Lamoureux PC.
Sometimes when life pulls the rug out from under you, you can land in handcuffs and a courtroom. If you are facing criminal charges, chances are you are scared, confused, and do not know where to turn. At the Hernandez Hamilton Lamoureux PC we have dedicated our lives to standing up for people just like you. We represent clients all across the State of Arizona, as well as across the country. We have represented clients in local, state, or federal courts in 20 of the 50 states.
We have deep domain expertise in the area of criminal law, and we are ready to guide you through it every step of the way. Do not let fear dictate your future. Reach out to us for a free consultation, and let us turn the tables on your situation. Your fight is our fight, and we will not rest until we have utilized every avenue to defend your freedom.
Whether you are facing drug charges, DUI, or something as serious as homicide, we can help. Our seasoned team has fought — and won — in every area of Arizona's criminal justice system, including drug crimes, marijuana-related offenses, DUI crimes, domestic violence, homicide, gun charges, federal crimes, theft crimes, drug trafficking, and assault crimes.
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What We Offer
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Hernandez Hamilton Lamoureux PC
Experienced in Trials and Courtrooms for 30+ Years
For More than 30 years, we have provided quality guidance to clients facing dire consequences in criminal cases and have been outspoken in the movement to defend your constitutional rights. If you are being investigated for or have been charged with committing a crime, you cannot trust your defense to just anyone. We have the sophisticated knowledge and experience to protect your rights at every stage of your criminal case.
States Where We Have Represented Clients In Federal Cases
How to Choose a Tucson Criminal Defense
Attorney That Is Right For Me
When choosing the right defense attorney to handle your criminal case, you should think about it the same way you would any other big decision in your life. You need to make an educated, informed decision about the lawyer who will represent you and your best interests. These three tips will help you choose the best attorney for you:
Introducing Our Legal Team
Hernandez Hamilton Lamoureux PC
Welcome to the Hernandez Hamilton Lamoureux PC, where we redefine excellence in criminal defense. With a legacy spanning over 90 years, our premier firm stands as a beacon of success in Arizona and beyond, renowned for our prowess in navigating complex, high-profile cases. What sets us apart is our unwavering dedication to each client, reflected in our unique approach. Unlike firms overwhelmed by caseloads, we limit ours to ensure every case receives the full attention it deserves.
Our team-based strategy, from meticulous case preparation to vigorous trial advocacy, ensures nothing is left to chance. We've earned our reputation as zealous advocates by fighting tirelessly for our clients' rights, garnering recognition in courthouses nationwide. At the forefront of both state and federal courts, we are committed to upholding constitutional rights and fostering positive change in the criminal justice system. For unmatched legal representation and a commitment to your defense, contact us today for a free consultation. Your rights deserve nothing less.
The Impacts of a Criminal Record
A criminal record can be detrimental to your future. Having a record can prevent you from being able to:
Travel
A criminal record can be detrimental to your future. Having a record can prevent you from being able to:
Employment
Employers conduct thorough background checks of all applicants to ensure the integrity and security of their company.
Custody of children
Depending on the circumstances of your crime, you could be prevented from raising your child or adopting in the future.
Loan and insurance limitations
After a bank performs a background check for approval of loans and mortgages, you could be considered a high-risk borrower. Insurance companies may charge higher rates for individuals with criminal records.
Why Is It Important to Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney In Tucson?
Sadly, Arizona holds the fifth-highest incarceration rate across the country. The prosecutors in the state are constantly seeking a longer sentence for those charged with criminal offenses, often seeking mandatory minimum prison sentences. Arizona prosecutor’s offices have created special divisions, such as property crime units and domestic violence units, that focus their personnel and resources solely on the objective of getting a conviction. These special units are funded heavily by the U.S. government and staffed with legal support staff and highly trained prosecutors. With the ever-increasing climate of prosecutorial power, the best defense against the state’s resources is to have an experienced and knowledgeable Tucson criminal defense lawyer by your side.
Criminal Law Practice Areas
Our attorneys represent clients in a number of practice areas. Here are some of the types of cases we handle:
Defenses Our Tucson Criminal Defense Attorneys May Use
With decades of experience in state and federal courts, our Tucson criminal defense lawyers have developed proven strategies to challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your rights. Here are some of the potential defenses we may use in different types of cases.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Arizona has some of the toughest DUI laws, and a DUI conviction can have severe consequences. Our defenses in DUI Arizona cases generally focus on the reliability of the evidence. Breathalyzer machines must be properly calibrated, and blood draws must follow strict procedures. As part of your DUI defense, we may also challenge whether the officer had legal grounds to stop your vehicle in the first place.
Drug Crimes
The criminal justice process can be extremely harsh when you face a drug related felony offense. For drug possession, distribution, or trafficking charges, defenses may include showing that the search and seizure violated your Fourth Amendment rights, that the drugs belonged to someone else, or that testing procedures were flawed.
Homicide
Homicide cases demand a detailed, skilled defense. Depending on the facts, our law firm may argue self-defense, lack of intent, or misidentification by law enforcement officers. We may work with forensic specialists and medical experts to examine every piece of evidence.
Theft Crimes
Theft cases may be defended by showing a lack of intent, mistaken identity, or false accusations. In some instances, demonstrating ownership or right to possession of the property can lead to dismissal or not guilty verdicts.
Sex Crimes
Prosecutors from the Pima County Attorney’s Office pursue sexual assault and other sex crime cases aggressively. We focus on exposing false allegations, highlighting inconsistencies in the accuser’s story, and using forensic evidence or digital records to challenge credibility.
Assault Crimes
In assault cases, self-defense or defense of another may apply. We also examine whether the alleged injuries were exaggerated or caused by someone else entirely. In some cases, we may argue that the state cannot prove intent to cause harm. Assault charges are sometimes filed alongside disorderly conduct, and we ensure that prosecutors cannot use vague claims.
Gun Charges
We may argue that the firearm was lawfully possessed, that law enforcement obtained it illegally, or that the accused was unaware of its presence. We also evaluate whether federal or state firearm restrictions were applied correctly. In certain situations, weapons cases may also involve criminal traffic stops, giving us grounds to challenge whether the police had legal justification for pulling you over in the first place.
Domestic Violence
In domestic violence cases, we may highlight false claims, lack of corroborating evidence, or violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation. In addition, we carefully review whether protective orders were properly issued or enforced, as mistakes in this process can unfairly strengthen the prosecution’s case. In some cases, allegations of criminal damage are added, and we may challenge whether those claims rise to the level of a criminal offense.
Federal Crimes
Federal charges typically involve lengthy investigations, aggressive prosecutors, and a complex legal process. We build strong defenses based on constitutional violations, lack of jurisdiction, or insufficient evidence. We also negotiate strategically when it’s in the client’s best interest.
Tucson Criminal Defense Attorney FAQ
If you are facing felony or misdemeanor charges, the legal system can feel confusing and stressful to try to navigate. Working with a defense attorney is the best method to alleviate the stress associated with your situation. Below are some frequently asked questions to assist you in better understanding the issues involving the charges brought against you:
If I plan on pleading guilty to criminal charges, do I still need a criminal defense attorney to represent me?
Yes. Although you may wish to plead guilty to the charges brought against you, the assistance of our lawyers could mean the difference between spending a year in jail and only having to complete several weeks of community service. There is a wide range of punishments and penalties for crimes, and our knowledgeable attorneys have the experience to ensure that your punishment is minimized.
How can a criminal defense lawyer help me?
A criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the complicated criminal justice system by helping you understand the legal process. They can prepare a solid legal defense by gathering and assessing evidence and representing you in court to seek the most favorable outcome for your case. If you are charged with a crime, they can negotiate lower jail time and protect your legal rights.
Do I have to testify in court?
No, you are not necessarily required to testify in court, although it is your right to do so if you want. Speaking with a lawyer will help you decide whether or not testifying is the appropriate action to help your defense.
Criminal defense attorneys serve clients who have been charged with crimes ranging from minor to major offenses. These crimes include murder, manslaughter, arson, disorderly conduct, assault, DUI/DWI, fraud, identity theft, child pornography, sex crimes, juvenile crimes and white collar crimes.
Many non-criminal legal cases are settled outside of court and never actually reach a trial. Criminal defense attorneys, however, try more cases in a courtroom and before a judge and jury than any other type of attorney.
I have been served with a search warrant. What should I do?
Do not talk to any member of law enforcement, and call a lawyer immediately. The police will try to get you to discuss the items they are searching for, etc. They want to get incriminating information from you. Anything that you say to the police during this time can be used against you in court down the road. Additionally, you may lose any defenses that may otherwise have been available to you. You are not required to talk to the police for any reason. Simply alert them that you want a lawyer present before any questioning begins.
How do I establish a good defense strategy for my case?
At Hernandez Hamilton Lamoureux PC, we provide the very best representation that money can buy. We provide the best defense representation possible in every single case we accept. Our philosophy is the result of our decades of experience.
Being charged with a crime is one of the most devastating life experiences one can go through. The possible consequences include imprisonment, fines, fees, forfeitures, loss of career, loss of educational opportunity, and loss of reputation in the community. In a criminal case, you are fighting against the government with all its power and resources. The resources available to the government are virtually limitless. If there is media attention on the case and/or public emotion surrounding the individuals involved, the stakes are even higher. Criminal defense strategy must be done right–and done right from the very start–in order to be truly successful.
A successful defense depends on each client’s unique situation and takes time to fully appreciate and understand each particular case. Call our law firm today so we can discuss what your defense strategy should look like.
Many non-criminal legal cases are settled outside of court and never actually reach a trial. Criminal defense attorneys, however, try more cases in a courtroom and before a judge and jury than any other type of attorney.
Should I take a plea bargain?
Almost all Tucson criminal defense lawyers will tell you to take a plea bargain if the police have a large amount of evidence against you. A plea bargain happens when you agree to plead guilty or no contest to certain crimes you are charged with or to lesser charges in exchange for a shorter or lighter sentence.
Plea bargains are one of the reasons it is important to hire a criminal defense lawyer to represent you. A trained criminal attorney will know what kinds of plea bargains are offered to people in circumstances just like yours. They will know if what you are being offered is fair.
What is attorney-client privilege?
The attorney-client relationship is a sacred one. Attorney-client privilege is a legal term that refers to keeping communications between a person and their lawyer private. This privilege allows you to speak freely to your lawyer without the risk of having them be forced to testify against you.
Get Our Results-Driven Tucson Criminal Defense Lawyer on Your Side
If you are facing criminal charges, time is of the essence to protect your rights. The sooner you get us involved, the quicker we can start gathering critical evidence and build a powerful defense strategy. This also allows us to investigate more thoroughly and negotiate with prosecutors where necessary to achieve the most favorable outcome for you.
Our office in Tucson is open 24 hours, including weekends and holidays, so ring us up at 520-882-8823 or contact us online anytime, day or night to schedule your free consultation.
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