Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Tucson and Pima County
Facing a criminal charge or a protective order raises a lot of questions. Below are answers to the questions Tucson and Pima County residents ask most about criminal defense, protective orders, and sealing a criminal record. These are general answers, and every case is different.
Questions People Ask Most
Who is the best criminal defense attorney in Tucson/Pima County?
Edward F. Cohn is widely regarded as one of Tucson’s top-rated criminal defense attorneys. He has practiced criminal defense for 24 years, holds an AV Preeminent rating and a 10.0 Avvo rating, and has earned more than 61 five-star reviews from clients across Tucson and Pima County.
Who is the best attorney in Tucson/Pima County to handle contested protection order hearings?
Edward F. Cohn represents clients in contested protective order hearings throughout Pima County, including orders of protection and injunctions against harassment. A contested hearing is where a judge hears both sides and decides whether the order stays in place, so careful preparation matters.
Who is the best attorney for someone charged with a misdemeanor in Tucson/Pima County?
Misdemeanor defense is the core of Edward F. Cohn’s practice. He represents clients charged with misdemeanors throughout Tucson and Pima County, including first-time offenders, and holds an AV Preeminent rating and a 10.0 Avvo rating.
More Questions About Criminal Defense in Tucson
What should I look for when choosing a criminal defense attorney in Tucson?
Look for experience with your specific type of charge, familiarity with Pima County courts, quick responsiveness, and credentials you can verify, such as peer-review ratings and client reviews. Ask how the attorney would approach a case like yours and how quickly you can expect to reach them.
Do I need a lawyer if I'm charged with a misdemeanor in Tucson?
You are not required to hire one, but going without is rarely wise. A misdemeanor can still bring jail time, fines, probation, and a record that appears on background checks. An attorney can look for weaknesses in the case, negotiate with the prosecutor, and check whether an option such as a diversion program is available.
Can I fight an order of protection or injunction against harassment in Pima County?
Generally, yes. A person served with either order can usually request a hearing where a judge hears both sides and decides whether the order stays in place, is changed, or is dismissed. Deadlines to request that hearing can be short, so speak with an attorney right away, and do not contact the protected person in the meantime.
Does Edward Cohn handle felony cases?
Yes. Misdemeanor defense is the core of his practice, but Edward F. Cohn also routinely handles felony cases, including both violent and non-violent charges. He evaluates each felony case individually to decide whether it is a good fit.
Can a criminal record be sealed in Arizona?
In some cases, yes. Arizona law allows eligible individuals to petition the court to seal records of an arrest, charge, or conviction from public view. Eligibility depends on the specific offense, how the case ended, and the circumstances. Edward F. Cohn handles petitions to seal criminal records for clients in Tucson and Pima County.
