Tequila Sunrise is a Flagstaff and NAU tradition—the perfect kick-off to NAU Homecoming festivities. However, mixing alcohol and a heavy police presence can lead to confusion and arrests.
Each year, we have routinely defended NAU students and other young adults who find themselves in handcuffs on Tequila Sunrise morning. We offer free consultations on all criminal charges in Arizona, ranging from disorderly conduct to assault to DUI, and more.
What to Expect After an Alcohol-Related Arrest
As a general reminder, a criminal case is charged through an Arizona Ticket and Complaint, which the police can hand to you, or a Court can provide to you later. Typically, a misdemeanor case that occurs in Flagstaff will result in a criminal case being filed in Flagstaff Municipal Court. However, if the allegation arises out of events on the NAU campus, the case will typically be filed in the Flagstaff Justice Court. And if it’s a felony case, it will be in the Flagstaff Justice Court or the Coconino County Superior Court. Regardless of where the case is filed, the Arizona Rules of Criminal Procedure will dictate how the case proceeds.
First, there will be an arraignment. If you don’t have a lawyer, you must appear in person for the arraignment, or else a warrant will be issued for your arrest. However, if you have an attorney, you do not need to go to the arraignment if your lawyer tells you it’s okay to skip. Second, there will be a pre-trial conference (PTC) and police reports will be provided to you or your attorney.
Ultimately, you will be able to decide between accepting a plea agreement—or deferred prosecution or diversion agreement, if available—or proceeding to a trial. Some cases have the right to a jury trial; other cases will be a bench trial (where the Judge is both the fact-finder and the Judge). It is our job to get the best possible plea offer, deferred prosecution, or diversion agreement for our clients. And, if the offer is not good enough, we are well known as Flagstaff’s successful trial attorneys. We are honored to utilize our trial experience, reputation, and skills to achieve the best possible outcome in a courtroom.
Request a Free Consultation Today
We offer free consultations on all criminal defense and personal injury cases in Northern Arizona. There's no pressure and no cost. Use the free contact form, or call us at the number at the top of the page. Let Griffen & Stevens Law Firm, PLLC fight for you.
