Why Choose Future First Strong DUI and criminal defense for a limited number of clients, so every case gets our full attention.
- Flat-fee pricing. One cost set by your charge. No hidden fees, no hourly rates.
- Payment plans and financing. Flexible options so cost never blocks a strong defense.
- Free phone consultation. Talk through your case and options at no charge.
- Local experience. Phoenix Area and Maricopa County only. We know these courts.
- Video updates from your lawyer. Personalized updates so you always know what comes next.
- Fast case support. Reach your team by text, email, or phone.
- We educate and advocate. Clear guidance and steady support at every step.
What Happens After an Arizona Arrest: Step by Step
What happens when you are arrested?
First, there must be an investigation and typically an arrest. This means the police took you into custody and think you are guilty of a crime. Before the police ask you any questions about a crime they think you were involved in or know about, they are required to read you your Miranda warnings.
When should the police read you your rights?
At some point, the police should have told you that you have the right to remain silent, that anything you say can be used against you, and that you have the right to speak with an attorney before questioning. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided. Your attorney needs to know when this happened.
What happens during booking?
After you are taken into custody, the police will often take your photograph and fingerprints. Call a lawyer immediately. If you do not know a lawyer, call a family member to schedule a consultation. Do not share any details of the case with family. Only calls with your lawyer are confidential while in jail.
What is an arraignment?
Within 48 hours of your arrest, if you are held in jail, you will be arraigned by a judge. The prosecutor tells the judge why you were arrested. The judge only decides whether you should be released or stay in jail until your next court date. Telling your side of the story here only helps the prosecutor, so do not talk about your case. Your bail or bond hearing may happen at the arraignment or shortly afterward.
What is an indictment?
After arraignment, the prosecutor shows their evidence to a grand jury, or files a direct complaint without one. This is a one-sided proceeding. Neither you nor your lawyer may participate. If the grand jury finds enough evidence, it issues an indictment, the formal charge or charges against you.
What is discovery?
Once there are formal charges, you have the right to see all the evidence the prosecutor has, including questioning witnesses. This may take several months. Toward the end of discovery, your lawyer and the prosecutor may begin to negotiate to dismiss or reduce the charges. This is called plea bargaining.
How does plea bargaining work?
Plea bargaining can start at any time, but your lawyer will usually wait until they have seen all the evidence. Sentencing laws often control how long a sentence may be for a given crime and your prior history. Your lawyer cannot change those laws, but they can negotiate a different charge or fewer charges that carry a lesser sentence.
What happens at trial?
If the case is not dismissed and you do not accept a plea, there will be a trial. The prosecutor presents their case first. Your lawyer questions each witness and each piece of evidence against you. Then your lawyer tells your side of the story using the strongest defense strategy for your case.
How does sentencing work?
If you are found guilty, the judge determines your sentence, usually a few weeks after trial. If you are found not guilty, there is no punishment.
Phoenix Office Location
Practice Areas
DUI Defense
First offense, extreme, super extreme, aggravated, underage, and drug DUI.
Pre-File Defense
Under investigation but not charged yet. We step in before it becomes a case.
Criminal Traffic
Criminal speeding, reckless driving, racing, hit and run, and suspended license.
Assault
Misdemeanor assault and harassment charges.
Disorderly Conduct
Disorderly conduct and disturbing the peace.
Domestic Violence
DV-designated charges and violations.
Drug Charges
Possession and paraphernalia charges.
Theft & Shoplifting
Shoplifting, theft, and related property charges.
Record Removal
We remove Arizona criminal records at AZ Record Removal.
And More
Misdemenaors, felonies, and more.
Why You Need Future First On Your Side
It's Not A Fair Fight
Police, prosecutors, and judges work for the justice system that wants a quick conviction. You should not face them alone.
Prosecutors Want Convictions, Not The Truth
They stack charges so at least one sticks. We find the holes, gaps, and inconsistencies that create reasonable doubt.
Police Make Mistakes. We Catch It
If your stop, search, or arrest violated your rights, we move to suppress that evidence before trial.
We Know The Law
We stand between you and an aggressive prosecutor, assert your rights, and guide every strategic decision.
Award Winning Law Firm