Utah Plea in Abeyance FAQ
A
plea
in abeyance can provide an
negotiated
alternative to taking a criminal case to trial. In most cases, a
successful abeyance agreement will result in dismissal of the case -
without the risks and costs associated with putting the case in front
of a jury at trial. The following questions and answers are intended to
provide general information only about how a plea can be held in
abeyance in a Utah criminal case. If you are facing prosecution for a
misdemeanor
or
felony
charge in Utah, having the assistance of an
experienced
criminal
defense attorney
is critical to achieving a successful outcome.
Contact us today to see how we
can help you.
Finding
a Utah Criminal Defense Attorney

Facing
criminal prosecution can be frightening.
Consequences
can include and prison time, thousands of dollars in fines, probation
conditions, restitution orders, employment consequences, loss of
rights, suspended licenses, and more. If
you are facing prosecution in Utah,
choosing
the right criminal defense attorney can be one of the most
important decisions you will make.
Contact
us now to see how we can help you.

- Selected Defense Victories
Dismissed - Charges of insurance fraud were brought when investigators found reason to believe that client's claim of injury was fraudulent. Client was seen kicking a soccer ball, and investigators concluded that the injury claim was false. By obtaining medical records and other administrative records, and by pointing out to the prosecutor that the alleged injury interferred with the client's ability to lift - not his ability to kick a ball - the prosecutor agreed to dismiss the case.
2-Step Reduction - Client needed a two-step reduction to bring a prior conviction to the misdemeanor level. Collection of substantial evidence of reform and rehabilitation convinced a normally reluctant prosecutor to stipulate to the defense 402 reduction motion.
Dismissed - Minor in possession charge (MIP) was dismissed by prosecutor when defense analysis demonstrated that the police had failed to obtain necessary evidence against client. Police had raided a large party involving underage drinking. Several individuals were charged, but police did not obtain evidence showing that client had personally consumed or possessed alcohol. Case was dismissed.
Not Guilty - Client was charged with second-degree felony residential burglary and facing potential prison time. Investigation by the defense revealed multiple witnesses, missed by police and prosecutors, who supported client's claim of innocence. At trial, the jury returned a "not guilty" verdict on all charges.
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I handle a Utah misdemeanor from out-of-state? - Even if you do not intend to take your case to trial, a misdemeanor criminal offense in Utah can require multiple court appearances to reach a resolution. If you have been charged with a crime in Utah, but are not a Utah resident, an experienced criminal defense attorney may be able to help you resolve
the case without returning to the state. . . .

Successfully defending against criminal prosecution requires more than just an 'aggressive' defense. The best defense attorneys understand that a sophisticated defense requires a thorough understanding of a variety of nuanced legal issues, real experience in the courtroom, good negotiation skills, and much more. Fighting hard is good. Fighting smart is better....
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»

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»

Even a single misdemeanor conviction in Utah can result in extended jail time and substantial fines. The collateral consequences of a criminal conviction can last a lifetime. Whether you are facing misdemeanor prosecution in a justice court or more serious felony charges in the district court, obtaining advice and assistance from an experienced criminal defense attorney is....
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An arrest is not a conviction. If you are facing criminal prosecution in Utah, it can feel like your world is collapsing. But there are things you can do right now that can increase your chances of a good outcome. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you evaluate the various options available to you and help develop a strategy for success....
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