A veteran of the criminal justice system, David is also an experienced trial attorney. The fact is that in some cases, the best alternative for a client is to proceed to trial, and if that is the case, Mr. Black will move forward with confidence. At all times, the essential principle is that every one of his clients is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Best Criminal Lawyer in Arizona
Candy Marrufo
Criminal Lawyer
Partner Candy Marrufo hails from San Luis, Arizona but later moved to Phoenix to pursue her education. Upon graduating with her Bachelor of Science in criminology, Ms. Marrufo went to work for the organization “ICAN.” Here, she worked with at-risk youths in Chandler with the goal of keeping them out of gangs and crime. After her time at ICAN, she decided to go back to school to pursue her law degree. Ms. Marrufo’s experiences have made her a more compassionate criminal defense attorney.
- Clerk – Honorable Susana Pineda, Maricopa County Superior Court
- Immigration Law Clinic
- ICAN – Center for At-Risk Youth in Chandler, AZ
- Admitted to Practice – All Courts in Arizona
- Cases Handled In – Maricopa, Yavapai, Pinal, and Yuma County Superior Courts, as well as various city/justice courts
Jason D. Lamm
Criminal Lawyer
I am Attorney Jason Lamm, founder, and Phoenix criminal defense lawyer at Jason D. Lamm Attorney at Law. With over 25 years of experience behind me and thousands of cases handled, I have the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively navigate the criminal justice system for my clients. I am a former major felony prosecutor and always strive to achieve the best possible outcome. I provide thorough, detailed, and relentless investigation of your case in order to build the strongest defense strategy on your behalf. I am committed to achieving real results. I seek a tailored approach for incomparable results that allow you to move forward with confidence.
- Thousands of Cases Successfully Handled
- Insight From a Former Major Felony Prosecutor
- Relentless Investigation and Access to Resources
- Committed to Obtaining Real Results for Clients
- Aggressive and Personalized Defense Strategies
- Over Two Decades of Proven Legal Experience
David A. Black
Criminal Lawyer
There are numerous characteristics that you want and expect in your criminal lawyer. Integrity, intelligence and an unfailing devotion to his clients are paramount. But those traits alone are not enough – you need a lawyer with substantial experience defending clients charged with crimes. And that is exactly what David Black has been doing for the past seven years.
Before entering private practice, Mr. Black served as a prosecutor in the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. That experience allowed him the unique opportunity to see first-hand how the prosecutors put their cases together, how they assemble their evidence, and how they formulate charges against criminal defendants. By seeing the process from the inside, Mr. Black gained significant insight that taught him how to spot weaknesses in the prosecution’s case; what to do in cases in which the prosecutor inflates the charges; how best to secure a dismissal or a reduction in charges; and how to negotiate the best possible results for his clients.
Christine Whalin
Criminal Lawyer
Knowledge of the law and confidence in Court is what you need in a criminal defense attorney. This knowledge and confidence is what Christine Whalin projects during every client meeting, settlement negotiation, pretrial hearing, and jury trial. Christine became an attorney in 2006 and joined DM Cantor in 2010, becoming partner in 2018. She is one of only 12 female criminal defense attorneys in the state of Arizona who are Board Certified Specialists in Criminal Law per the State Bar of Arizona, Board of Legal Specialization.
Christine is a trial lawyer practicing for over 15 years in the area of criminal defense. She focuses on representing individuals in all types of criminal cases ranging from state and federal felony and misdemeanor matters, along with school discipline and Title IX litigation. Throughout her career, Christine has represented countless clients on their criminal cases, achieving successful results in the form of dismissals, reduced sentences and complete acquittals after jury trial. Christine represents people in any type of criminal matter, and is particularly skilled in handling major felony cases involving sexual misconduct, sexual assault and other serious “life-in-prison” allegations. In addition, she is extremely successful in handling pre-charge matters and having those investigations closed and not filed.
KRISTIN MCPHIE
Criminal Lawyer
Kristin is a nationally recognized attorney admitted to practice in Arizona, the Navajo Nation, Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community, Gila River Indian Community, and Ak-Chin Indian Community. As a member of the Navajo Nation, she enjoys serving tribal community members everywhere, as well as representing individuals within the tribal courts.
Kristin’s practice covers criminal defense, dependency matters, and work with tribal entities and Indian Tribes where she has drafted tribal code, reviewed legislation, presided over disputes, and worked closely with governing boards.
Kristin graduated from Brigham Young University, B.S. 2003 and Arizona State University Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, J.D. 2013 where she also received a certificate in Indian Law.
Kristin and her husband Ryan are parents to four busy children. In her spare time, Kristin is an avid runner and triathlete completing many marathons and several Ironmans. She also enjoys silversmithing and makes Native American jewelry.
CRAIG J. ROSENSTEIN
Criminal Lawyer
Craig Rosenstein is the founder and owner of Rosenstein Law Group opened in late 2007 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Craig received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science at the University of Arizona in 2002. He then graduated from Arizona State University College of Law in 2006. He is licensed to practice law in Arizona, as well as in the U.S. Federal District Court in Arizona.
Craig Rosenstein is the founder and owner of Rosenstein Law Group opened in late 2007 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Craig received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science at the University of Arizona in 2002. He then graduated from Arizona State University College of Law in 2006. He is licensed to practice law in Arizona, as well as in the U.S. Federal District Court in Arizona.
TIMOTHY J. TOBIN
Criminal Lawyer
Attorney Tobin handles criminal and DUI cases throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan Area providing clients with professional, experienced, and aggressive representation. If your rights have been violated, Mr. Tobin isn’t afraid to seek justice and fight for you. He’s known for his honesty, compassion, and dedication to justice. When you step into the Mr. Tobin’s office, expect professionalism with a friendly touch. He’ll take the time to listen to your concerns and needs and work with you to dismiss charges, reduce charges, limit penalties, and protect your legal rights.
Attorney Timothy Tobin graduated with honors from Stonehill College in Massachusetts. Following his passion as a legal advocate, he earned his Juris Doctor from New England Law Boston where he was on the Dean’s list every semester. During law school, Mr. Tobin was a student-practitioner representing indigent women in divorce and custody disputes. He also worked at the prestigious law firm Lubin & Meyer of Boston, Massachusetts.
Mr. Tobin is admitted to practice law in the States of Arizona and Hawaii. Following law school, Mr. Tobin opened a criminal defense practice in Hawaii where he defended private and indigent clients in a variety of criminal charges. Mr. Tobin spent a large portion of his time working for the State Judiciary as a court-appointed attorney in misdemeanors, felonies, juvenile matters, and child protective service proceedings.
Amy M. Leonard
Criminal Lawyer
Attorney Amy M. Leonard has dedicated her legal career to handling an array of matters involving criminal law. From nonviolent drug offenses and DUI charges to the most serious felony and federal crimes, Attorney Leonard has accumulated thousands of hours of experience creating effective defense strategies to protect the rights and futures of her clients. When handling cases, she also draws from a background in criminal pre-trial, trial, and appellate writing.
Prior to joining the legal team at Suzuki Law Offices Amy spent time as an associate attorney at a San Francisco-based plaintiff’s firm. She then moved to Phoenix, AZ with her family in 2001 and worked with a plaintiff’s firm before being admitted to the Arizona State Bar in 2004.
Attorney Leonard earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science and Economics from Santa Clara University before receiving her Juris Doctor from the University of San Diego School of Law in 1996. After law school, she interned at the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office and the Federal Public Defenders Office in San Diego, where she gained valuable criminal law experience from both sides of the courtroom.
The Grand Canyon State’s Criminal Justice System: Why You Need a Top-Tier Lawyer in Arizona
Facing criminal charges in Arizona’s breathtaking landscapes can feel like navigating a treacherous blind canyon. The legal system, while striving for fairness, can be complex and unforgiving. Here’s why securing a top-tier criminal lawyer in Arizona is crucial for protecting your freedom and achieving the best possible outcome:
1. Unmatched Expertise in Arizona’s Legal Landscape:
Arizona has its own unique set of criminal codes, statutes, and court decisions. A top-tier criminal lawyer licensed in Arizona possesses in-depth understanding of these nuances, allowing them to:
- Navigate the Legal Maze: They can meticulously analyze your case within the framework of the Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) and interpret key court rulings that may influence the prosecution’s strategy and your potential defenses.
- Stay Current on Legal Developments: The legal landscape is constantly evolving. Your lawyer actively monitors changes in Arizona criminal law, ensuring your defense strategy reflects the most up-to-date legal principles and leverages any recent rulings that could benefit your case.
- Identify Location-Specific Issues: Arizona counties or cities may have their own local ordinances or procedures. Your lawyer’s deep understanding of the state’s legal landscape allows them to identify any potential location-specific issues that could impact your case.
2. Building a Rock-Solid Defense Through Strategic Planning:
A top criminal lawyer in Arizona doesn’t wait for the prosecution to make a move:
- Thorough Case Evaluation: They will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your case, meticulously analyzing the evidence, witness statements, and any potential legal issues. They will identify strengths and weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and gather evidence to support your defense.
3. Championing Your Rights Under Arizona Law:
Your fundamental rights are paramount:
- Protecting Your Constitutional Rights: The best criminal attorneys in Arizona are dedicated to protecting your constitutional rights throughout the legal process. They will ensure that your rights, such as the right to due process, the right to remain silent, and the right to legal representation, are upheld. They will closely scrutinize the actions of law enforcement officers, ensuring your rights were not violated during the investigation or arrest. (AZ.gov)
4. Negotiating for the Best Possible Outcome:
Skilled negotiation can be a powerful tool:
- Expert Negotiation Skills: A competent criminal attorney possesses excellent negotiation skills and can engage in plea bargaining with the prosecution. They will advocate for reduced charges, minimized penalties, or alternative sentencing options, if appropriate.
5. Courtroom Advocacy: Powerful Representation When Needed:
If your case goes to trial, having a seasoned lawyer by your side is crucial:
- Trial Ready Attorneys: The best criminal lawyers in Arizona have extensive courtroom experience, including knowledge of trial strategies, effective presentation skills, and the ability to cross-examine witnesses. They will fight vigorously to defend your rights and interests in the courtroom.
6. Sentencing Expertise: Mitigating Potential Consequences:
A knowledgeable criminal attorney can still fight for you even after a conviction:
- Understanding Sentencing Guidelines: In the event of a conviction, a knowledgeable criminal attorney will work to mitigate the consequences during the sentencing phase. They understand Arizona’s sentencing guidelines and laws and can present mitigating factors, such as your character, background, and any extenuating circumstances, which may lead to a more favorable sentence.
7. Emotional Support and Guidance During a Difficult Time:
The legal process can be emotionally draining:
- Understanding and Empathy: The best criminal lawyers in Arizona not only provide legal guidance but also offer emotional support. They understand the emotional toll of facing criminal charges and will provide reassurance, address your concerns, and guide you through the legal process with compassion.