If you’ve been charged with Tempe resisting arrest, you’re not alone. These are charges that often follow contentious confrontations with police officers—in a downtown bar, in front of Arizona State University, or on a late-night Loop 202 traffic stop. Innocent confusion or apprehension can quickly turn into serious criminal charges.
At Lerner and Rowe Law Group, our Tempe criminal defense attorneys understand just how fast these types of situations can spiral out of hand and how important it is to have an experienced legal team on your side.
Why It Takes Experienced Legal Representation to Face Resisting Arrest Charges in Tempe
Resisting arrest as a crime in Arizona (A.R.S. §13-2508) is typically a Class 6 felony, and momentary physical resistance or delay can have devastating consequences. Most people who get charged with resisting arrest never intended to fight the police—maybe they were simply trying to pull away, scared, or misunderstanding an officer’s command.
A seasoned Tempe resisting arrest lawyer can investigate what actually happened, review bodycam footage, and determine whether the officer followed procedure. Our attorneys know very well how the Tempe Police Department makes arrests and how Maricopa County prosecutors build their cases.
Common Situations for Resisting Arrest Charges in Tempe
Resisting arrest charges in Tempe commonly stem from:
- Incidents at traffic stops on University Drive or Rural Road
- Alcohol-related arrests near ASU
- Misunderstandings at large events or concerts downtown Tempe
- Situations where individuals felt threatened for their safety or were unaware that they were being detained
Our firm has seen how moments of emotional or difficult circumstances are mistaken for aggression or resistance. Our defense lawyers at Lerner and Rowe Law Group work to get the facts and protect you from exaggerated or unfair charges.
Possible Tempe Resisting Arrest Penalties
A conviction of resisting arrest can cause serious consequences on your record, employment, and freedom. Depending on the situation, you might face:
- Up to 2 years in state prison for a felony conviction
- Probation, fines, and community service
- A permanent criminal record
- Difficulty obtaining jobs or housing
When represented by a Tempe resisting arrest lawyer from Lerner and Rowe Law Group, you’ll have advocates who know how to present mitigating evidence, negotiate plea reductions, or fight for dismissal when the facts don’t support the charge.
Why Lerner and Rowe Law Group Is the Right Choice for Your Tempe Defense
With decades of trial experience combined and a successful history of aggressive defense, Lerner and Rowe Law Group has emerged as one of Arizona’s top criminal defense law firms. Our lawyers know the ins and outs of Tempe’s judicial system—from the Fifth Street municipal court to the arrest procedures of the Tempe Police Department.
We are honored to be accessible and empathetic. We’ll hear your version of events, challenge the prosecution’s case, and guide you through every aspect of your case. You may be a student, a professional, or simply an innocent person in the wrong place at the wrong time. Regardless of the circumstances, we’ll represent you with experience and compassion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Resisting Arrest in Tempe
Your attorney can investigate possible misconduct or abuses of your rights and may use that as a way to discredit the case against you or make a suppression motion.
A conviction will be on your record, but your attorney can try options for dismissal, reduction, or expungement based on your history and the outcome of your case.
Court deadlines sneak up fast after an arrest. You should call a Tempe resisting arrest attorney sooner rather than later so that you don’t miss important deadlines.
Yes—we provide free consultations 24/7 to consult with you on your case and discuss your best defense strategy.
Call a Tempe Resisting Arrest Lawyer From Lerner and Rowe Law Group Today
Don’t face criminal charges without experienced help. Call (602) 667-7777, complete our online form, or reach us via LiveChat for your free consultation. The Tempe resisting arrest lawyers at Lerner and Rowe Law Group are ready day and night to protect your rights and your future.