Utah Criminal Courts FAQ
Following are links to questions and answers relating to Utah's criminal courts system. The information presented is general in nature and should be treated as legal advice applicable to a specific case or circumstance. Consultation with and assistance from an experienced criminal attorney is strongly advised if you are facing prosecution in either a district court or justice court criminal case. Contact us today to see how we can help.- Should I ever plead guilty at arraignment in a Utah criminal case?
- Can I plead "not guilty" if I really did commit the crime?
- What should I wear (or NOT wear) to court in a criminal case?
- What happens if I miss court in a Utah criminal case?
- How can I find out if I have an outstanding bench warrant or arrest warrant in Utah?
- Do bench warrants or arrest warrants ever expire in Utah?
- Is being in the hospital a valid excuse for missing court in a Utah criminal case?
- Does a witness have the right to remain silent in a Utah criminal case?
- Can a prosecutor call a witness at trial who is going to plead the Fifth?
- How will my prior record affect the judge's sentence in my current Utah criminal case?
- Can I file an appeal of a Utah criminal conviction before I am sentenced?
- Can I pay my court fines online in a Utah criminal case?
- What happens if a victim fails to appear in court to testify in a Utah criminal case?
- Are polygraph examination results admissible in a Utah criminal case?
- Can I appeal a judge's sentence in a Utah criminal case?
- How can I pay a court fine online in Utah?
Finding a Utah Criminal Defense Attorney
If
you are facing prosecution in a criminal charge, whether it involves felony
or misdemeanor
charges, having the assistance of the right criminal defense lawyer is vital
to achieving a positive outcome in your case. With experience defending criminal
cases throughout Utah's district
court and justice
court systems and on appeal, we work hard to ensure that each
client's rights are protected. Contactus today to see what we can do to 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 -
Client was facing multiple cases involving first-degree felony drug distribution charges for allegedly selling to a confidential informant. Defense analysis of the case revealed fatal flaws in the prosecution case that ultimately resulted in a complete dismissal of all cases and charges.
Not Guilty - Client was charged with residential felony burglary and theft charges. Effective cross-examination of alleged victim at preliminary hearing resulted in an admission by the alleged victim that the charges were based on a false report to police, made for the purpose of getting revenge against the defendant. Case was dismissed outright.
- Recent Posts
What
should I do if I am arrested for DUI? - Many DUI cases begin as minor traffic stops. But the consequences of a DUI conviction are much more serious than an ordinary traffic citation. If you are pulled over for a suspected DUI, you have specific important constitutional and statutory rights that can protect your. . . .
Can
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....
Strategy »
With decades of combined experience, our criminal defense team attorneys have the knowledge, skill, and determination to help you achieve the results you need. Facing criminal prosecution in Utah can have serious consequences. Choosing the best attorney to defend your case may be one of the most important decisions you will ever make....
Experience »
Even a "minor" misdemeanor carries the potential for jail time and significant fines. The direct penalties and collateral consequences of a felony conviction are even more severe. Understanding these consequences is critical as you make decisions relating to your case. Even in a misdemeanor case, you should not....
Consequences »
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....
Reasons to Hope »
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Serving Salt Lake, Davis, Weber, Utah, Cache, Tooele, Summit, Box Elder, and Wasatch Counties, and all of Utah.
Offices in Salt Lake and Davis Counties
560 South 300 East, Suite 200, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
952 S. Main St., Suite A, Layton, UT 84041
Call now to arrange for a confidential initial consultation with an experienced and effective Utah criminal defense lawyer.
In Salt Lake City, call 801-449-1409.
In Davis County, call 801-923-4345.
Serving Salt Lake, Davis, Weber, Utah, Cache, Tooele, Summit, Box Elder, and Wasatch Counties, and all of Utah.
Offices in Salt Lake and Davis Counties
560 South 300 East, Suite 200, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
952 S. Main St., Suite A, Layton, UT 84041
Call now to arrange for a confidential initial consultation with an experienced and effective Utah criminal defense lawyer.
In Salt Lake City, call 801-449-1409.
In Davis County, call 801-923-4345.
The materials in this website are intended for informational purposes only, and are not legal advice. Viewing or responding to materials in this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Read Full Disclaimer.
Attorney Stephen Howard practices as part of the Canyons Law Group, LLC and Stephen W. Howard, PC.
Stephen W. Howard, PC
Attorney Stephen Howard practices as part of the Canyons Law Group, LLC and Stephen W. Howard, PC.
Stephen W. Howard, PC