Study Finds Violent Crimes are Higher in Phoenix’s Low-Income Areas

Many studies point to a high link between low income and violent crime. Research has found violent crimes are higher in Phoenix’s low-income areas. As well as elevated levels of violent offending, residents of these neighborhoods often suffer from more drug and alcohol abuse and mental illness. In a recent report, AZCentral noted higher levels […]

What Are Arizona’s Failure to Stop Laws?

Fleeing the scene of a traffic accident or not stopping for a police officer is a serious offense in Arizona as in other states. Falling foul of Arizona’s failure to stop laws can land you in prison. Failure to stop is an offense under A.R.S. 28-1595. A driver may be charged with the offense if […]

Serious Crimes Against Children in Arizona

Serious crimes against children carry heavy sentences in Arizona and elsewhere. Not only do prosecutors crack down hard on crimes against young people but juries are unlikely to show much sympathy toward defendants. People who commit crimes against children often spend long terms in prison. Even when they are released, their reputation is tarnished. They […]

What is the M’Naghten Rule – the Basis of Insanity Defenses?

The M’Naghten Rule is the basis of insanity defenses in the United Kingdom and the United States. It was established by the British House of Lords in the mid-19th Century. The rule is a test of whether the person accused of a crime was sane when the act was committed and criminally responsible for what […]

Tips for Helping Your Attorney When a Defendant Has a Mental Illness in Arizona

It’s very important for defendants with a mental illness in Arizona to hire a criminal defense lawyer. Most defendants are unfamiliar with the legal system and need a voice in court. This is especially the case when the accused has a mental disorder. His or her needs are often ignored in the criminal justice system. […]

Arizona Court Rules Police Need a Warrant to Use GPS Tracking Evidence

The communications revolution of the 21st Century has transformed crime investigations. It’s much easier to track people than in previous years because of global positioning systems (GPS). However, the question of whether police need a warrant to obtain this information has occupied many hours in courtrooms. The Arizona Supreme Court deliberated on this issue in […]

Can Dementia Trigger Incompetency to Stand Trial in Arizona?

The recent case of an Arizona man with Alzheimer’s who said he robbed a credit union because he could not afford to live on his social security check, raises questions of whether dementia can trigger incompetency to stand trial in Arizona. A report in Tucson.com noted Robert Francis Krebs told FBI agents that he didn’t […]

Arizona Governor Vetoes Prison Reform Bill for First Time Offenders

Arizona has one of the most controversial sentencing policies in the nation. First-time offenders can receive multiple sentences for “repetitive offenses” that occurred within minutes of each other. The law led to a groundswell for change and across the aisle support for a bill. However, in June, Governor Doug Ducey vetoed Senate Bill 1334, a […]

Sleep Deprivation in College Kids Fuels Mental Health Episodes

College students often lose out on sleep. They habitually work late cramming for examinations, or party and lead hectic lives. A new study points out sleep deprivation can have an adverse effect on mental health. At the Garcia Law Firm, our attorney helps people when they get into trouble with the law. He often helps […]