Category: Criminal Defense
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Should I start counseling while my criminal case is still pending?
Many of our clients ask whether they should start counseling before their criminal case is resolved. In most cases, the answer is yes. Over 90% of criminal cases in Utah…
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Criminal Defense in Iron County, Utah
Iron County is part of Utah’s Fifth Judicial District. Cedar City is largest city, and home to the county’s two busiest criminal courts — the Iron County District Court and…
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Criminal Defense in Washington County, Utah
Washington County’s criminal cases are handled by the St. George District Court for felonies and serious misdemeanors, while justice courts manage lower-level misdemeanors. Knowing which court is handling your case…
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How can I clear a felony conviction from my record in Utah?
The process depends on the nature and severity of your felony. There are certain felonies that are not eligible to be expunged. These include first-degree felonies, felony DUIs, violent and…
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What is the first felony court hearing in Utah?
The first hearing in a misdemeanor criminal case is normally the “arraignment” hearing, where the judge will read the charges formally filed in the case and ask the defendant to…
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What is the difference between acquittal and a not guilty verdict?
Under Utah law, an “acquittal” and a “not guilty” verdict have essentially the same meaning. But neither of these terms is a declaration that the defendant is factually innocent. The…
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What is an arraignment hearing?
In a misdemeanor criminal case, the arraignment hearing is the first court hearing held. The judge will read the formal charges and ask the defendant to enter a plea of…
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What if I cannot appear in person at arraignment?
There can be circumstances that simply make it impossible or impractical to be physically present at a scheduled criminal arraignment hearing. Health and distance are two common reasons, but there…
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State v Ruiz, 2021 UT App 94
In State v. Ruiz, the Utah Court of Appeals addressed Fourth Amendment issues relating to the use of a drug detection canine (K9) to conduct a search of a vehicle…
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Unlawful Detention Charges in Utah
An offense of unlawful detention in Utah involves allegations that an individual has been held against their will, without the authority of law, for a brief time. Penalties Under Utah…
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What happens if I plead no contest in a Utah criminal case?
Pleading no contest means exactly that – you are not contesting the charges against you. Procedurally, this has the same effect as a guilty plea, but you are technically not…
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Should I Plead Guilty or Not Guilty at My Arraignment
If you’re facing criminal charges, you have some important decisions to make. One of the first choices is whether to plead guilty or not guilty at your arraignment.