Salt Lake Jury Trials and Bench Trials
One of the most fundamental rights associated with the criminal justice
system is the right to a trial by jury. Being charged with a
crime does not mean you are guilty. When criminal charges are
involved, the prosecutor bears the burden of proving every element of
the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
The
criminal
trial process is complex. If you are facing
criminal charges, you deserve to have an experienced and effective
lawyer on your side. As a
criminal
defense attorney based in Salt Lake City, Stephen Howard has
a record of achieving
real
results for his clients. He believes that taking a
personal approach to each case is the best way to achieve the results
that his clients need.
In every criminal case where jail or prison is a possibility, you have
the right to have your case heard by a jury of your peers. Trials can
also be heard by a judge instead of a jury. A trial heard by a judge is
referred to as a "bench" trial. While there are circumstances where a
bench trial may be to
your advantage, those circumstances are relatively rare. Before
deciding whether to have your case heard by a judge
rather than a jury, you should discuss your case in depth with an
experienced
criminal lawyer.
Contact Stephen Howard
now and learn how he can help you with your case.

- Selected Victories
Dismissed - Contractor was charged with theft by deception for allegedly misusing customer funds and failing to complete work that had been agreed upon. A successful motion to quash on legal grounds following the bindover order at preliminary hearing resulted in a complete dismissal of all charges.
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.
Felony Reduced - Client with prior felony conviction was granted a 402 reduction to the misdemeanor level over the objection of the prosecutor. Based on information provided to the court in support of the defense motion, the judge ruled in favor of the defense.
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. . . .
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. . . .

You want the best defense. Agressive is good. But results ultimately are what really matter. Creating an effective strategy for defending against criminal prosecution requires a thorough understanding of statutes, case law, and evidentiary and procedural rules. A successful outcome is more likely when....
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
»

A Utah criminal prosecution can result in a lifetime of consequences. Beyond jail and prison, a conviction can affect many areas of life, including employment, housing, finances, family, and much more. Never plead guilty without first consulting with an experienced criminal attorney. Understanding what is at stake is the first step....
Consequences
»

Being charged with a crime is not the same as being convicted. But just being charged can affect more than you may have imagined - jail, job, family, bills, rent or mortgage. It can feel like everything has gone wrong, and may you wonder if anything can go right. But facing criminal prosecution does not mean giving up hope....
Reasons to Hope
»
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Contact Us
Serving
Salt
Lake,
Davis,
Weber,
Utah,
Cache,
Tooele,
Summit,
Box
Elder, and
Wasatch
Counties, and all of Utah.
Attorney Stephen Howard practices as part of the Canyons Law Group, LLC and
Stephen W. Howard, PC.
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.
Stephen W. Howard, PC
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