What to Do If You’re Accused of a Crime in Tucson: Insights from a Former Judge

Being accused of a crime can turn your whole world upside down in a matter of seconds. Police lights in your driveway, handcuffs on your wrists, and suddenly you’re facing charges that could impact your freedom, your family, and your future.

As a former Pima County Judge and now the owner of Taylor Law Group, PLLC, I’ve seen these moments from both sides of the bench. I know how overwhelming it feels — and I also know what steps can make the difference between a bad outcome and the best possible one.

In this article, I’ll break down what you need to know if you’ve been accused of a crime in Tucson or Southern Arizona.

Why Criminal Accusations in Tucson Are So Serious

Arizona laws are tough, and local prosecutors don’t hesitate to push charges aggressively.

• Domestic Violence: You can be arrested after a single heated argument, even if no one was physically hurt. A DV conviction can affect your freedom, child custody, employment, and even your gun rights.
• DUI: Arizona is famous for its strict DUI penalties. Even a first offense can mean mandatory jail time, license suspension, counseling, probation, and thousands in fines.
• Protective Orders: A judge can issue an injunction or restraining order in minutes. Violating one, even by accident, can lead to domestic violence criminal charges.

The point is simple: what might feel like a misunderstanding or minor conflict can quickly snowball into a life-changing situation.

Common Mistakes People Make After an Arrest

Over the years, I’ve watched good people hurt their own cases without realizing it. Some of the most common mistakes include:

• Talking to police without a lawyer. Anything you say can (and will) be used against you. It’s always safer to stay silent until you have legal representation. You think you can outsmart them. You can’t.
• Contacting the other party. In DV and protective order cases, even sending a text or DM can get you in even deeper trouble.
• Delaying getting help. The earlier you involve an experienced defense lawyer, the better your chances of controlling the outcome.
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What a Former Judge Knows About the Courtroom

When I served as a judge in Pima County, I watched countless cases unfold. I saw which defense strategies worked, which ones fell flat, and how prosecutors build their cases. That perspective is what I now bring to every client at Taylor Law Group. I know how judges think because I’ve been in their chair. I know how prosecutors push cases because I’ve seen it firsthand. And I know the rules of the courtroom because I used to enforce them. That insight can be the edge you need when everything feels stacked against you.

Your Rights and Next Steps

If you’ve been accused of a crime in Tucson, here are the most important things to remember:

You have the right to remain silent. Use it. Don’t explain, don’t argue, don’t try to “clear things up” without a lawyer. Zip it! Say nothing, except your name.

You have the right to an attorney. Exercise it as soon as possible. Ask to call us immediately!

Every case is different. Don’t assume the worst. With the right defense strategy, criminal charges can be reduced or even dismissed.

How Taylor Law Group Can Help

At Taylor Law Group, we handle cases across Pima, Cochise, Santa Cruz, and Pinal Counties. Our focus areas include:

• Domestic Violence Defense
• DUI Defense
• Protective Orders & Injunctions
• Crime Victim Representation
• Appeals & Post-Conviction Relief
• Felony and misdemeanor criminal defense

We take every case seriously because we know what’s at stake — your freedom, your family, and your future.

Final Thoughts

Being accused of a crime doesn’t make you a criminal. It makes you someone who needs strong, experienced defense and a voice that will stand up for your rights.

If you or a loved one is facing a bad situation, don’t wait. The earlier you have the right lawyer on your side, the better your chances.

Call Taylor Law Group at (520) 440–5635 for a free consultation.