We have all been there. The sight of the flashing red, white and blue lights in the rear view mirror is quite unsettling. If you’ve faced such a situation, panicked and made a mistake, you are not alone. Plenty of people make a rash decision when police trail behind them. Our unlawful flight criminal lawyers Phoenix team is here to help you emerge from this legal battle with as little punishment as possible.
Unlawful Flight From Law Enforcement
The Unlawful Flight Statute was enacted nearly 85 years ago to help efforts to capture fugitives. Arizona drivers who willingly flee or attempt to evade a police vehicle following a pull-over attempt can recieve a charge of a class 5 felony. However, the police vehicle involved in the matter must have clear markings to prevent driver confusion. Furthermore, the law enforcement vehicle must have its lights flashing or use a siren to communicate a request for the driver to stop.
In many instances, those who are guilty of unlawful flight also face additional charges like drug possession or driving under the influence (DUI). Plenty of people who flee police vehicles do so because they are afraid they will be arrested for a crime or because they have an outstanding warrant. If you find yourself in such a situation, do not panic. A solid legal defense can reduce the charges or even eliminate them. If convicted, you will face upwards of two years in prison and have a felony conviction on your record. Some of those found guilty of unlawful flight may end up with probation and up to one year in jail.
Potential Defenses
Our skilled criminal attorneys will advocate on your behalf against an unlawful flight from law enforcement charge. The specific defense applicable to your case depends on the facts of your case. As an example, it might be possible to argue you did not willfully flee or attempt to escape a law enforcement vehicle as you were not aware of its presence due to visibility issues, distractions, loud music etc.
It might also be possible to successfully argue you believed the law enforcement officer was attempting to get the attention of another driver. This is an especially common defense against unlawful flight in areas with high traffic. A number of other defenses are also possible.
Criminal Lawyers Phoenix are on Your Side
If you are charged with unlawful flight, our criminal lawyers Phoenix group is here to minimize the punishment and return your life to normal.
Accused of a crime? Contact an experienced Phoenix criminal defense lawyer at the Lerner & Rowe Law Group for a FREE consultation. We offer flexible and affordable payment plans. Reach out to our attorneys at 602-667-7777. We are available 24/7 to take your call.