Criminal Defense Lawyer in Tempe, Arizona
Tempe, Arizona is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and prestigious Arizona State University, attracting over 80,000 students and more than 170,000 residents. Consequently, criminal prosecutions have been on the rise in this bustling city. Various law enforcement and prosecution agencies are diligently enforcing Arizona’s stringent laws and penalties.
Regrettably, any form of criminal citation or charge in Tempe, AZ can have lasting and severe consequences for Defendants. Even a minor misdemeanor in Tempe can result in a permanent criminal record, which may adversely affect your future, career, finances, and rights.
If you are confronted with any criminal charges in Tempe, Arizona, it is crucial to seek the guidance of an experienced criminal defense attorney who specializes in defending clients in this jurisdiction. Theodore Agnick, a seasoned criminal defense lawyer and former prosecutor, has dedicated several years to practicing criminal law. Mr. Agnick offers comprehensive and highly effective criminal defense services for Tempe, AZ cases. Known for his tenacity, Attorney Agnick has handled numerous cases originating from the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, the agency responsible for prosecuting felony matters arising from the Tempe Police Department. With his extensive experience, Mr. Agnick possesses a deep understanding of the Law Enforcement Agencies, Judges, Prosecutors, and Courts that serve the Tempe community.
Tempe Law Enforcement Agencies
Maricopa County’s Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) and Arizona’s Department of Public Safety:
In certain instances, state law enforcement agencies handle criminal charges in Tempe, particularly when the alleged conduct occurs on or near an Arizona State highway. Misdemeanor cases originating from these state agencies are typically assigned to the University Lakes or Kyrene Justice Courts. Felony matters from Tempe are referred to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.
ASU Police Department:
The Arizona State University Police Department is responsible for maintaining law and order on the ASU property controlled by the Arizona Board of Regents. They also collaborate with the City of Tempe to provide law enforcement and traffic control in the surrounding areas of the ASU campus. Misdemeanor cases filed by the Tempe Police Department are typically directed to the University Lakes and Kyrene Justice Courts. In the case of felony matters investigated by the ASU police, they are referred to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.
Tempe Police Department:
With a force of over 350 police officers and 150 civilian staff members, the Tempe Police Department serves a diverse community. Their dedicated team provides law enforcement services to over 170,000 Tempe residents, including more than 80,000 college students. Throughout the day, the population in Tempe can surge to over 250,000 due to athletic and entertainment events. Misdemeanor cases originating from the Tempe Police Department are handled by the Tempe Municipal Court, while felony cases are referred to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.
Courts in Tempe, Arizona
If you are facing a misdemeanor charge in Tempe, Arizona issued by the Tempe Police Department, your case would be assigned to the Tempe Municipal Court. If you were charged by the Arizona State University Police Department, Maricopa County’s Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), or Arizona’s Department of Public Safety, your case will likely be handled at either the University Lakes Justice Court or Kyrene Justice Court.
The Tempe Municipal Court is conveniently situated at the intersection of East Fifth Street and Myrtle Ave, adjacent to the Tempe Police Station and across from the City Hall Parking Garage.
Both the University Lakes Justice Court and Kyrene Justice Court are located at the San Tan Regional Court Center on East Chicago Street in the historic downtown area of Chandler, AZ. This location is across the street from the Chandler Municipal Court and Chandler Police Station.
Tempe Municipal Court:
- Address: 140 East Fifth Street, Tempe AZ 85281
- Presiding Judge: MaryAnne Majestic
Contact Tempe Municipal Court:
- Phone: 480-350-8270
- Fax: 480-350-2789
Tempe Municipal Court Hours of Operation:
- Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Tempe Municipal Prosecutor’s Office:
- Address: 140 East 5th St, Suite 303, Tempe, AZ 85280
- Phone: 480-350-8280
- Fax: 480-350-8987
University Lakes Justice Court:
- Address: San Tan Regional Court Center, 201 E. Chicago St., Chandler, AZ 85225
- Judge: Tyler Kissell
Contact University Lakes Justice Court:
- Phone: 602-372-3400
- Fax: 602-372-3414
University Lakes Justice Court Hours:
- Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Kyrene Justice Court:
- Address: San Tan Regional Court Center, 201 E. Chicago St., Chandler, AZ 85225
- Judge: John McComish
Contact Kyrene Justice Court:
- Phone: 602-372-3400
- Fax: 602-372-3494
Kyrene Justice Court Hours of Operation:
- Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Our Tempe Office
Primary Law Enforcement Agencies Serving Tempe, Arizona
Tempe Police Department:
The Tempe Police Department is composed of more than 350 sworn officers and about 150 civilian employees, collectively providing law enforcement services to over 170,000 residents and approximately 80,000 college students. By day, Tempe’s population can surge beyond 250,000 due to a bustling workforce and various entertainment and sporting events. Most misdemeanor cases handled by the Tempe Police Department move through the Tempe Municipal Court, while felony cases are generally forwarded to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.
Arizona State University (ASU) Police Department:
ASU Police is the primary law enforcement body for areas owned or regulated by the Arizona Board of Regents. With mutual support agreements in place, ASU officers also assist with traffic control and law enforcement activities on streets adjacent to the ASU campus in Tempe. Misdemeanor offenses detected by ASU Police are usually assigned to either the University Lakes or Kyrene Justice Courts, while felony matters are escalated to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) & Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS):
In certain cases, state-level law enforcement agencies—like MCSO or DPS—are responsible for investigating alleged criminal activities in or near Tempe, especially those involving Arizona’s highway systems. Misdemeanor charges from these agencies are usually directed to the University Lakes or Kyrene Justice Courts. Felony offenses originating from state-level enforcement within Tempe are referred to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.
Protecting Your Rights in Tempe Criminal Cases: Attorney Theodore Agnick at Ted Law
Being charged with a crime in Tempe, Arizona, is a serious matter that demands dedicated legal representation. Without professional guidance, you may face multiple court appearances spanning several months, often against skilled prosecutors and law enforcement officials whose primary focus is securing convictions. Unfortunately, their goal is not to consider your personal background or future prospects.
Attorney Theodore Agnick at Ted Law
Brings extensive knowledge of Arizona’s intricate criminal statutes and a deep familiarity with the local justice system, including the officers, prosecutors, and judges who handle Tempe cases. This comprehensive understanding allows Attorney Agnick to pursue the most favorable resolution possible, protect your constitutional rights, and help mitigate the lasting impact of a criminal charge.
Contact Ted Law for Your Free Consultation
If you or someone you care about is facing criminal charges in Tempe, call Ted Law at (602) 453-3100 today. We’re available 24/7 to offer a free, confidential case evaluation. Partner with Attorney Theodore Agnick and take the first step toward defending your future and securing the best possible outcome in your Tempe criminal case.