Utah Criminal Defense FAQ - Police
This page presents questions and answers relating to criminal law and interactions with police in Utah. If you are facing criminal prosecution for felony or misdemeanor charges, the consequences of a conviction can be serious. The assistance of an experienced criminal lawyer can be critical to achieving the results you need. Contact us today to see how we can help defend your rights.- What should I do if a police detective wants to interview me about a crime?
- Can I say no if a police officer asks to search my car?
- How long can police keep a criminal investigation open in Utah?
- Can I be pulled over for driving below the speed limit?
- Can a police officer in Utah refuse to let me see evidence he says proves I am guilty?
- Do I have to give my name to a police officer if asked?
- What are my rights during a consensual police encounter in Utah?
- How do police use radar guns in Utah?
- Can police lie as part of their investigation?
- What happens if police don't read me my Miranda rights in Utah?
- Do police have to show you a warrant before entering your home without a warrant?
- What should I do if I am contacted by police and asked to speak with them about a fraud case in Utah?
- How much time will I serve for selling drugs to an undercover police officer in Utah?
- Can a person be arrested in Utah without being questioned by police?
- Can I beat a Utah criminal charge on a "pretext stop"?
- What is a "search" under the Fourth Amendment in Utah?
- Can a police officer arrest me based on a hunch?
- What should I do if I am contacted by police and asked to speak with them about a fraud case in Utah?
- What should I do if a police detective wants to interview me about a crime?
- Can police search a vehicle just because the driver has a prior drug conviction?
Links to other Utah criminal defense resources can be found here. If you are facing prosecution for a criminal offense in Utah, contact us today to see how we can help you.
- Selected Defense Victories
Not Guilty - Client was charged with aggravated assault for alleged attack using broken bottle as a weapon. Despite the testimony of numerous prosecution witnesses, thorough defense investigation to support a self-defense claim resulted in acquittal by jury at trial.
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 on Appeal - DUI case was dismissed after a successful appeal where the Utah Court of Appeals reversed the trial court's denial of the defense motion to suppress. Without the suppressed evidence, the prosecutor acknowledged that they did not have sufficient evidence to proceed to trial and the case was dismissed.
Probation - Client
charged with aggravated robbery based on allegations he entered a store with a gun and mask and demanded cash. Client confessed to police before hiring a defense attorney. Defense mitigation efforts resulted in a negotiated resolution that removed life in prison as a possibility, and secured a probation sentence from the court.
- Recent Posts
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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. . . .
How do I find out if I have an outstanding warrant? - If you believe you may have an outstanding arrest warrant in Utah, a criminal defense attorney can access the Utah statewide warrant system and help you find the best. . . .
The right criminal defense lawyer can work with you to develop a defense strategy designed to achieve the best results. Hiring a Utah criminal attorney with real courtroom experience and an in-depth understanding of the legal issues involved in defending against a criminal prosecution can help ensure the best...
Strategy »
Choosing the best criminal defense attorney for your Utah criminal case may be the single most important decision you make. The courtroom can be a hostile place. Prosecutors receive extensive training on legal and tactical issues. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side is critical to defending your case and protecting your rights....
Experience »
In Utah, even a "minor" misdemeanor conviction carries the potential for jail time and significant fines. A felony conviction carries the potential of lengthy prison terms and the various consequences that come with being labeled as a convicted felon. Never plead guilty without first finding out....
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