The Real-World Impact of a DUI in Arizona (Beyond Just the Money)
Getting charged with a DUI in Arizona affects far more than your wallet—it can alter the course of your life.
A DUI conviction can:
Damage your reputation – A criminal record is public and can affect your standing in your community.
Jeopardize your employment – Some employers conduct background checks, and a DUI can limit job opportunities—especially in fields requiring driving, professional licensing, or a clean record.
Create ongoing stress and uncertainty – Navigating the court process, MVD requirements, and legal obligations can be overwhelming and mentally exhausting.
Continue Reading What is the cost of a DUI conviction in Arizona?

Missing a Court Date in Arizona Can Have Serious Consequences.

At R&R Law Group, we often hear the question: “What happens if I don’t show up to court?” The answer depends on your situation, but in most cases, failing to appear can lead to a warrant for your arrest and additional penalties. Here’s what you need to know.

When You Have an Attorney
If you’ve hired an attorney, many times they can appear in court on your behalf, especially for misdemeanor cases. Your lawyer can request a continuance, negotiate with the prosecutor, or handle routine hearings without requiring your presence.
Continue Reading What Happens if You Miss a Court Date in Arizona?

At R&R Law Group, one of the most common questions we hear is: Are Arizona DUI laws too harsh?
The short answer? Yes, they are strict.
Arizona is known for having some of the toughest DUI penalties in the country, with mandatory minimum jail sentences and steep fines, even for first-time offenders. While these laws are designed to deter dangerous behavior, many believe they don’t leave enough room for discretion or rehabilitation.

Why Arizona DUI Laws Feel Harsh
Unlike some states that offer diversion programs for first-time DUI offenders, Arizona does not. That means even someone with no criminal history…
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At R&R Law Group, we often hear this question:
“If I plead not guilty but then get found guilty at trial, will my sentence be worse than if I had taken a plea deal?”
The short answer: Usually, no.

What Happens if You Plead Not Guilty but Are Later Found Guilty?
Understanding the Basics
When you plead not guilty, you’re exercising your constitutional right to a trial. In most cases, judges will not punish you more harshly simply for going to trial. This is sometimes referred to as avoiding a “trial tax”.
For example, in a first-time DUI case:

• If

…
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Can Felony Charges Be Reduced in Arizona? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’ve been charged with a felony in Arizona, you might be wondering: Is there any way to reduce these charges? The short answer is—yes, in many cases, Arizona felony charges can be reduced. But how that works depends on the type of felony, the specific facts of your case, and the legal strategies available.

Understanding Felony Classes in Arizona
Felonies in Arizona are categorized into six different classes, with Class 1 (F1) being the most serious and Class 6 (F6) being the least severe. Here’s a…
Continue Reading Can Felony Charges be Reduced in Arizona? Here’s What you Need to Know

No Contest Pleas in Arizona
At R&R Law Group, our attorneys often receive questions about the different types of pleas available in criminal cases. One that tends to cause the most confusion is the “no contest” plea—also known as nolo contendere. So what does the plea really mean, and in which circumstances does it apply?

No Contest vs. Guilty vs. Not Guilty

In Arizona, and in most jurisdictions, you typically have three options when entering a plea:

• Guilty
• Not Guilty
• No Contest (Rare)

While guilty and not guilty pleas are straightforward, a no contest plea means that you are not…
Continue Reading What Does a “No Contest” Plea Really Mean in Arizona?

I was mailed a photo speeding ticket for driving 11 miles over the speed limit (56 in a 45 mph zone) while I was visiting Scottsdale last month. How should I proceed?

We are sorry to hear about your ticket! The first question is whether or not you got an actual traffic ticket or just a traffic violation notice. If it says something like “Notice of Violation” or “Traffic Violation Notice” then this can be completely ignored. However, if it says “Arizona Traffic Ticket & Complaint” at the top, then it is an actual traffic ticket and you have a…
Continue Reading How I Proceed With Speeding Ticket for Driving Over Speed?

It happened. You were charged with a crime. You did everything you possibly could to work your way through it. You went to trial, and you presented your evidence. The judge heard it; the jury heard it, but they came back with a guilty verdict and you lost!
As an attorney, this is a scenario that I have been a part of, and it’s something that I have witnessed on behalf of our clients. It’s not a fun experience and it’s a devastating blow. Especially when you fought so hard, invested so much energy and were convinced that there was…
Continue Reading How to file Notice of Appeal in an AZ Misdemeanor Criminal Court Case

We are going to explore a motion to set aside a conviction in the state of Arizona. Arizona does not have something called expungement (a court-ordered process in which the legal record of an individual’s arrest or a criminal conviction is “sealed,” or “erased” in the eyes of the law.) The closest thing that AZ has to sealing a criminal conviction is something called a motion to set aside.
If you have a criminal conviction on your record and are granted a motion to set aside, the court will set aside the judgement of guilt, dismiss the complaint, information…
Continue Reading Arizona Motion to Set Aside Conviction Do and Not Do

R&R Law Attorney, Ryan Cummings, answers questions on bail in Arizona.

What Is Bail?

If you’ve been arrested for a criminal offense, your first court appearance—known as the initial appearance—typically happens within 24 hours. During this hearing, a judge determines your release conditions, including whether bail will be set and how much.
Under Arizona law, most people are entitled to bail, although there are exceptions for certain serious offenses. That means in most cases, you’ll have an opportunity to get out of custody while your case is pending.
Let’s walk through the four main types of bail in Arizona, from…
Continue Reading Can Someone With a Felony Get Out on Bail?

Can Someone With a Felony Get Out on Bail?
R&R Law Attorney, Ryan Cummings, answers questions on bail in Arizona.

What Is Bail?
If you’ve been arrested for a criminal offense, your first court appearance—known as the initial appearance—typically happens within 24 hours. During this hearing, a judge determines your release conditions, including whether bail will be set and how much.
Under Arizona law, most people are entitled to bail, although there are exceptions for certain serious offenses. That means in most cases, you’ll have an opportunity to get out of custody while your case is pending.
Let’s walk through…
Continue Reading Understanding Bail in Arizona: What You Need to Know

Meet Jushin Gill, an attorney at R&R Law Group. In addition to representing clients, he serves as a director, focusing on the firm’s operations and management. Today, he shares his journey into criminal defense and what makes R&R Law Group truly special.

Jushin Gill: A Surprising Path to Criminal Defense

When Jushin Gill first entered law school, he had no intention of pursuing criminal defense. However, during an internship at a criminal defense firm, everything changed. He quickly fell in love with the field, captivated by the complexities of the legal system and, more importantly, the people it affects. He…
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Today, we’re thrilled to introduce you to one of our dedicated attorneys, Taylor Mackie. Taylor brings a wealth of experience and a heartfelt commitment to criminal defense that makes her a standout member of our team.

From Edmonton to Tempe: Taylor’s Journey to Law

Originally hailing from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, Taylor Mackie now calls Tempe, Arizona home. Her path to becoming a trusted legal advocate is as inspiring as it is unique. Taylor’s journey began with a strong interest in criminal justice, which guided her through law school and beyond.
Gaining Ground in Criminal Justice
Taylor’s legal career took off…
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