by John Schill | Mar 6, 2025 | Criminal Charges
If you have a criminal case in Phoenix, you have the right to represent yourself unless the court finds you mentally incompetent. However, you may lack the expertise and knowledge of the criminal law system, which limits your ability to properly represent yourself.
Why Hire a Phoenix Criminal Defense Attorney?
A criminal defense lawyer will help you from the beginning of the ordeal to the end, ensuring you are well-represented. They will bring their knowledge of the law and the people involved in the criminal justice system, increasing the chances of favorable outcomes for our case.
10 Benefits of Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney in Phoenix
Although you are allowed to represent yourself in a criminal case, hiring a criminal defense attorney in Phoenix has several benefits.
1.Understanding of the criminal law system
Defending yourself in a criminal case can be tricky because you lack enough knowledge of the prosecutors, judges, and other members of the legal system that you may encounter. With criminal attorneys, they bring a clear understanding of the members of the criminal law system, including the prosecutors and judges. This helps you build a stronger case, fight better in your case, or trade leniency with harsh penalties.
2.Expertise in defense
Criminal attorneys in Phoenix understand every aspect of the criminal law process and court procedures. When you hire a lawyer, they focus on building a firm case on your behalf. Equipped with facts and evidence, the lawyer provides legal representation for you, defending you against criminal charges, and looks for any loopholes or inconsistencies that can work in your favor.
3.Better strategy design
Since every case is unique, it requires a different approach to handle the charges. Working closely with a criminal defense attorney ensures you measure all the events accurately and design a strategy. The lawyer will also conduct an independent investigation, negotiate, and prepare for trial to get the desired results.
4.Protection against heavy penalties
In most criminal charges, the prosecution usually comes down harshly against the alleged defendants. Even if you are innocent and falsely accused, you are still at risk of receiving a heavy penalty or sentence. A criminal defense lawyer will protect you against brutal prosecutors by ensuring that you are acquitted of false charges. They will also protect you against unfair sentencing in case you are found guilty or plead for the same.
5.Delegation of work to staff
To build a strong case, you need to execute crucial tasks. These may include gathering evidence and tracking down key witnesses. You also need to cross-examine the witnesses and prepare the necessary documents on time. When you hire a Phoenix criminal defense attorney, you also have access to qualified staff and resources to conduct such tasks. The lawyer can also find experts who can undermine the testimony of experts presented by prosecutors or testify on your behalf.
6.Risk mitigation with immediate action
Waiting has a high negative impact on criminal cases. The sooner you take action for defense against the charges against you, the higher the success rate. The longer you take to proceed with the case, it will offer prosecutors better the chances to strengthen their case against you. Hiring an attorney will help in taking prompt action and mitigating the risks and consequences of your case.
7.Damage control
Working with an experienced Phoenix criminal defense attorney by your side prohibits law enforcement from causing more damage to your case. They will not be able to contact you without going through the lawyer first, eliminating chances of getting intimidated and making uninformed, hasty decisions from your end.
8.Saves precious time
Since defense attorneys understand the proceedings of criminal cases, they take action before tricky scenarios arise. They can easily foresee possible situations, allowing you to take timely action. By proceeding through procedures quickly and accurately, a lawyer saves precious time and increases the chances of an early judgment.
9.Financial benefits
Hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Phoenix may look slightly expensive at first. However, it offers impressive long-term financial benefits. In a criminal case, the defendant is usually charged with court costs, heavy fines, and charges related to prison time or bail. An experienced attorney will preempt the charges and ensure you are not missing too many working days that can jeopardize your pay.
10.Constant moral and emotional support
For most people, facing criminal charges leads to numerous emotions like anxiety fear, depression, and even shame. An experienced defense attorney will handle your case professionally and help you cope with such emotions. The lawyer can even bring in professionals for additional assistance to avoid any surprises.
Hire a Reliable Criminal Defense Attorney in Phoenix
If you are a defendant in a criminal case in Phoenix, Arizona, contact our experienced criminal defense lawyers at Schill Law Group right away. We will build the right defense strategy for our case, protect your freedom, and ensure you get the best possible outcome.
by John Schill | Feb 23, 2025 | Adoption Lawyers
The adoption process in Scottsdale, Arizona can be long and full of ups and downs. Although the process starts with a decision to adopt a child, you also need to prepare yourself for what to expect. With several steps involved in adopting a child, getting the help of an adoption lawyer can make the process easier and more efficient.
What Does an Adoption Lawyer Do?
An adoption lawyer specializes in adoption law, specifically all legal issues relating to adoption. This kind of attorney guides birth parents and adopting families through the adoption process with the aim of facilitating a finalized, legal adoption. The range of legal services and advice offered by adoption lawyers to prospective families include:
- Identifying a reputable adoption agency or private adoptee
- Facilitating your background check
- Preparing and reviewing paperwork
- Preparing you for your home study
- Handling legal conflicts or disputes
- Negotiating the terms of the adoption
- Communicating with adoption agencies
- Arranging reimbursements for birth expenses
- Explaining local, state, federal, and international adoption laws
Why You Need to Hire Adoption Attorney in Scottsdale, Arizona
Navigating the adoption process can be a daunting experience without a legal expert by your side. An adoption attorney can help smooth the complexities and make the process easier for you. Instead of managing all the steps entirely yourself, hiring an experienced and trustworthy adoption lawyer can help in the following ways.
Get Legal Representative
An adoption lawyer plays the crucial role of representing your interests in and out of court. Since several issues may arise during the adoption process, the lawyer will represent you in all court proceedings. They also ensure your best interests during negotiations with the adoption agency for a smooth and successful adoption. Their clear understanding of adoption laws ensures that you are well-prepared for what is needed during our appearances.
Get a Detailed Explanation of the Adoption Process
Just like any other process, adoption comprises several steps. Although it is often referred to as happy law, adoption is usually as complicated as any other area of law. In addition to drawing up a lot of paperwork and going to court, you need to understand the rights of each party involved. An experienced adoption lawyer will explain what to expect and how the process can be simplified. Once you see the big picture, you will be less anxious and better prepared to push through the legal processes and procedural complications involved with adoption.
Overcome Legal Obstacles
Adopting a child is both a life-changing and complex process that requires careful navigation of legal requirements and procedures. Securing the services of an adoption lawyer in Arizona will help you overcome legal obstacles and complications. The lawyer will help you understand and navigate the complex adoption process, ensuring you meet the necessary required legal processes and avoid delays or obstacles.
Get Expert Knowledge
The process of adopting a child can be confusing to most parties, especially if you are unfamiliar with family laws. The entire legal process comprises complex steps and processes that can be overwhelming, and even daunting to the parties involved. The expert knowledge of the adoption lawyer makes the process less intimidating. Since they are well-versed will all aspects of adoption laws and guidelines, the lawyer can help you to easily navigate the process and make well-informed decisions.
Process and Procedural Support
Hiring an adoption lawyer ensures you get all the support and guidance needed throughout the complex process. Adoption is a state affair that usually involves a lot of paperwork and documentation. With different types of adoptions being processed, it can be confusing to figure out how each works. Your attorney will guide you through the requirements and needs of each, ensuring all paperwork work has been filled out.
Speed Up the Adoption Process
Adoption lawyers are trained and well-versed in the adoption law. Their vast experience working with different families allows them to understand every aspect involved in legalizing adoption. This helps to speed up the adoption process with streamlined paperwork and court representation to complete the process. The lawyer will also advise you on how to maneuver the court process to ensure all documents are filed correctly and deadlines met.
Hire an Adoption Lawyer Today
If you have decided to adopt a child and expand your family, you may have many questions about the legal process. Our legal team at Schill Law Group will provide you will all the answers you need. Whether you want to make an inquiry or hire an adoption lawyer to walk you through the process, our lawyers are ready to help. Get in touch with us today, and let us simplify the adoption law for you.
by John Schill | Jan 13, 2025 | DUI
Driving under the influence is regarded as a criminal offense in Arizona. So, DUI charges are dealt with in criminal court. While you have a right to represent yourself in court, hiring a DUI attorney increases the chances of a better outcome. In fact, the majority of defendants in Scottsdale, AZ either higher an exclusive lawyer or are represented by a public defender. Since DUI law is complicated and continuously updated, and each case is unique, hiring a DUI attorney in Scottsdale Arizona increases the chances of a favorable outcome.
Why You Need a DUI Lawyer
Since driving under the influence in Arizona is a serious crime, you will need a legal representative even if it’s your first offense. A DUI lawyer with experience in defending both misdemeanor and felony cases will help you avoid severe penalties like heavy fines, time in the country jail, or your driver’s license being suspended.
The potential consequences of the first DUI offense can be harsher if it is classified as Extreme DUI or Super Extreme DUI. In such as case, an aggravated DUI comes with mandatory prison time. A DUI lawyer will represent you in a criminal court to prevent adverse outcomes of your case by ensuring all facts are considered.
It is important to have a lawyer who will go through every detail of a DUI case to build a defense. The offense will usually go on your criminal and driving record, and a single mistake can impact your life for years. You may end up with a tarnished reputation, higher insurance premiums, and limited career opportunities. Being convicted of a DUI can also result in a strained relationship with friends and family and harm your immigration status if you are a non-citizen.
With a lot at stake, the need for an experienced and competent legal representation cannot be overlooked. You will need a DUI attorney to help you navigate the criminal justice system, ensuring that your rights, freedom, and future are protected.
How an Experienced DUI Attorney Helps
If you are facing a DUI case in Arizona, you will need an attorney to protect your rights and advocate for your interests from the moment it opens until the end. The lawyer will improve the chances of the case closing with a favorable outcome in several ways:
- Challenge Your DUI Arrest: The lawyer will check for any procedural flaws in your arrest to verify that the officer who arrested you has reasonable suspicion to call for a traffic stop. Was there any evidence of driving impairment such as sudden swerving, erratic driving, or speeding?
- Challenge Evidence: A DUI lawyer knows how to challenge the evidence being produced in court. They will investigate the case for any inconsistencies, pointing out inconclusive evidence such as field sobriety tests. This ensures that any weak links in the prosecution’s case are located for a better outcome on your side.
- Work to Reduce the DUI Charge: Sometimes a DUI conviction becomes inevitable and you will need an experienced DUI attorney to help reduce the charges. The lawyer could work to have the prosecutor reduce the charge during the court process. They could help in reducing the charges from a felony to a misdemeanor, softening the consequences that you will face, including reduced jail time and fines.
- Protect Your Driving Privileges: One of the major consequences to may face as a first offense Dui is license suspension. The police may take away your license during arrest and give you a temporary driving permit. You are then required to schedule a hearing with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) within 30 days to contest the suspension. A DUI lawyer can request the hearing on time and represent you, protecting your driving privileges throughout the process.
- Help Clean Up Your Record: Even after paying your penalties, your conviction is not automatically expunged so you can start fresh without a stain on your reputation. A DUI lawyer will guide you through petitioning to have your DUI conviction expunged if you are eligible.
Choose a Scottsdale DUI Lawyer You Can Trust
A DUI is a major concern in Scottsdale, Arizona because of the potential long-term consequences if convicted, even for a first-offense DUI. We highly recommend Schill Law Group for their excellent defense services and for going the extra mile in fighting for a favorable outcome. Not only will your mind be at ease during the entire process, but you will be working with a defense team that will guide you every step of the way.
by John Schill | Jan 13, 2025 | Blog, Child custody
Under federal law, the parent who qualifies as he custodial parent is the one who can claim the children as dependents. Generally, this is the parent who has lived with the child for a longer period during the year as explained by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Under the same provisions, there is no such thing as joint custody, which makes it imperative to understand who claims a child on taxes with 50/50 custody.
Understanding Who Claims Child On Taxes with 50/50 Custody
Relationship statuses often complicate taxes, with divorce or separation changing your filing status including who you can claim as dependent on your tax return. Even if you are still married, you may still question whether both you and your spouse can claim dependents, especially if you file separately.
The IRS allows parents to reduce their tax liability by claiming a dependent child on their tax return. This offers several benefits, such as helping you qualify for certain deductions and tax credits that could lower your taxable income. However, you must meet certain criteria related to your relationship with the child, financial support, residency, and income.
Although divorce or separation turns one household into two, both parents cannot claim their children as dependents when it comes to filing taxes. The IRS law states, “One taxpayer, one dependent.” This means that when divorced parents file their taxes separately, only one parent can claim their child as a dependent in a tax year,
Can You Claim the Child On Taxes with Shared Custody?
In a 50/50 custody arrangement, both parents share equal responsibility and time with their child. The child spends an equal amount of time during a year living with each parent. Both parents are also equally involved in making important decisions about the welfare of their child. However, when it comes to claiming child of taxes, the approach is not that straightforward.
The custodial parent is the one with 183 overnights or more. If you share parenting time with your spouse equally (50/50), you must have at least one more overnight than your spouse. This is naturally possible because there are an odd number of days in a year (365), which means that one parent will have one more day than the other.
Usually, one parent will have 183 overnights while the other will have 182 overnights. Automatically, this means that the one with the 183 overnights is entitled to state and federal tax deductions and exemptions. Since there are no dual-custodial parents under the IRS regulations, only one of the parents can claim the tax benefits and not both.
Can You Agree on Who Will Claim the Tax Benefit?
Getting the 183 overnights in a year may not always be possible. You may go for a long vacation or certain circumstances about the holiday parenting time may result in the other parent having more time in a year. Since you both want the best interest of your child, it is best for the parents in shared custody agree on who will claim the child on their taxes for the year.
Many parents with 50/50 custody simply divide the tax benefits and alternative years in making the claim. One parent will claim the benefits in the first year and the other in the second year. If you have multiple children, you can allocate the child credits in a way that one parent claims the same child every year while the other claims another child. If you have three children, you can allocate a child to one parent, the second to the other, and then alternate to the third child over the years.
What Tax Credits Are Available to Divorced Parents
You can qualify for several credits, benefits, and exemptions under federal and state tax laws. For divorced parents in a shared (50/50) custody, these may include:
- Child and Dependent Care Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
- Head of Household Filing Status
- Credit for Other Dependents
- Education Credits
To make the claims, a parent must meet all other qualifications of a tax benefit. For instance, one parent must pay for childcare expenses while the other works to claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit.
Get Support from Experienced Lawyers
The decision of who claims child on taxes with 50/50 custody often raises issues concerning both federal tax laws and state domestic relationships. You need to consider the tax consequences of your decisions if you want to make things easier. Hiring an experienced lawyer will help you negotiate a parenting plan that will allocate the credits and exemptions to reduce arguments in the future. Get in touch with our attorneys at Schill Law Group to help you deal with such issues.
by John Schill | Dec 25, 2024 | Domestic Violence
Domestic violence in Phoenix is a serious matter whether you are the victim or alleged aggressor. Depending on the specific situation, the case could be a misdemeanor or felony charge. Although most police reports may indicate such cases as being easy, you will need a professional lawyer to investigate the facts and get a favorable judgment.
What is Domestic Violence in Phoenix
Domestic violence refers to any kind of acts, threatened acts, or violence between people who are in a domestic relationship. The violence may vary greatly, but the charges fall in almost similar circumstances. These may be files for an actual act of violence or threatening to harm, abuse, or inflict violence against your partner.
To convict a person of domestic violence, the state prosecutor must show that the defendant acted in a way that posed a danger against a child, spouse, or any other criminal offense listed in the penal code. This may be a dangerous crime against someone who they:
- Are currently or formerly married
- Have a child in common with
- Live of used to live with
- Related by blood or court order
- Have a sexual or romantic relationship with
Why Do You Need a Domestic Violence Lawyer in Phoenix?
Most domestic violence cases are usually emotionally complicated. This can make getting all the facts a complex process, but crucial in influencing the outcome of the case. Usually, your attorney will tell your side of the story to the court without relying on another person’s perspective or version of the events.
When responding to a call related to domestic violence, police are often compelled to arrest the person, even when there is a lack of evidence to support criminal charges. The alleged offender may also be taken into custody due to false or exaggerated allegations.
In some cases, the alleged victim may say that he or she does not want or press any charges. However, the persecutor is the one who handles the case and has all the power to make that decision.
By hiring a skilled domestic violence attorney in Phoenix, you are assured that your side of the story will be represented accurately. You will have a legal expert to protect your rights and interests and guide you through the court process. The lawyer can dedicate themselves to discovering the facts of the case. Based on these facts, they can then defend you against the charges and increase the chances of getting a favorable case outcome.
Who Needs a Domestic Violence Lawyer in Phoenix?
Domestic violence in Phoenix includes all kinds of violent offenses committed by an aggressor against their family or members of their household. This means that the victim in the case may be a current or former spouse, a girlfriend or boyfriend, a roommate, a parent, a child, or any other person who resides in the same household.
If you have been charged with such a crime, you will need a domestic violence lawyer to represent you. It is also important to note that domestic violence in Phoenix is not just physical abuse, but also includes a variety of abuse behaviors, including:
- Harassment
- Stalking
- Sexual assault
- Intimidation
- Physical assault
- Emotional abuse
- Verbal threats
- Psychological abuse
- Unlawful imprisonment
- Secretly photographing, filming, videotaping, or viewing
- Interference with judicial proceedings
- Preventing the use of a telephone in an emergency
- Use of telephone to intimidate, terrify, threaten, annoy, harass or offend
How a Phoenix Domestic Violence Attorney Can Help with Your Case
Domestic violence under Arizona law can be charged as any number of crimes depending on the specific situation. You could be facing a charge of assault, threatening, assault with a deadly weapon, batter, kidnapping, threatening, or even witness intimidation. In some situations, the case would also be considered as an aggravated assault.
Given how expansive the case can get, getting a lawyer experienced in Arizona domestic violence laws ensures that you are being accurately represented. Your case will be treated with the care it needs and all facts will be taken into consideration to ensure you are well presented.
Book a Domestic Violence Lawyer in Phoenix Today
If you have a domestic violence case in Phoenix, you need a lawyer that you can trust will represent your side of the story accurately. At Schill Law Group, we are committed to protecting the interests of our clients and ensuring they get the best possible outcomes.
Although prosecutors and law enforcement officials will usually take an aggressive approach when dealing with domestic violence cases, our experience with such cases ensures you are well prepared and we have gone through all the facts.
Contact us today to schedule a meeting and let us walk with you throughout the case and increase your chances of winning the cases.
