Tarragon, Author at Canyons Criminal Defense Lawyers

Riverdale Justice Court Information

November 15, 2022 By Tarragon

The Riverdale Justice Court has jurisdiction over misdemeanor charges at the class C and class B level that take place inside the borders of … [Read more...]

Salt Lake Drunk Driving / DUI / DWI Defense Lawyer

November 12, 2021 By Tarragon

Salt Lake area prosecutors and judges take DUI cases seriously. Political pressure to be "tough" on crime can make prosecutors hesitant to engage in … [Read more...]

Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance

January 18, 2020 By Tarragon

The Utah criminal code classifies possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute at the same level as actual distribution or sale … [Read more...]

Salt Lake Criminal Theft Defense – Charges and Level

January 18, 2020 By Tarragon

Theft charges in Utah include minor misdemeanors as well as serious felonies that can result in lengthy prison sentences. Even minor theft charges can … [Read more...]

Salt Lake Public Intoxication Attorney – Utah Criminal Defense

January 18, 2020 By Tarragon

Public intoxication is a misdemeanor crime in Utah that carries the potential for jail time and a criminal record that can follow you for years. While … [Read more...]

Not Guilty Verdict
Self Defense

Client charged with felony aggravated assault for using broken bottle as a weapon. Defense case focused on self-defense, resulting in not guilty verdict by the jury at trial.

Dismissed – Motion to Quash
Felony Theft

Contractor client was accused of theft for alleged misappropriation of customers’ funds following delays in cabinetry work. Case was bound over for trial following preliminary hearing. Successful motion to quash demonstrated that the legal theory supporting the government’s theft charge was flawed and required dismissal. Court granted dismissal.

Abeyance and Dismissal
First-Degree Burglary

First-degree felony burglary charges with gang enhancement were filed based on client’s participation in burglary planned by other individuals. Based on client’s peripheral involvement and evidence his conduct was out of character, prosecutor consented to abeyance agreement at misdemeanor level that would ultimately lead to case dismissal.

Selected Victories

Not Guilty Verdict
Aggravated Assault

Client faced felony charges for allegedly using a gun to menace another driver during road rage incident. Defense trial strategy demonstrated that the alleged victim was the likely aggressor and that client had taken reasonable action to defend himself.

Appeal and Dismissal
DUI and Motion to Suppress

While represented by a different attorney, client was convicted of DUI by jury at trial. Mr. Howard filed an appeal challenging the district court’s denial of a motion to suppress. Appellate court reversed the trial court and the case was dismissed.