CONTRIBUTED CONTENT — Choosing an attorney to represent your case is one of the most important decisions you can make when you’ve been charged with a crime. Serving clients across Utah since 2003, the criminal defense experts at Schatz Anderson & Associates are committed to helping clients stay out of jail.
“An arrest is not a conviction,” attorney Jason Schatz said. “Don’t let it become one.”
Navigating a criminal case can be stressful and confusing for any defendant. DUI cases are particularly complex and challenging to argue, but Schatz Anderson & Associates specializes in providing a thorough defense for any alcohol or drug-related driving offenses.
Schatz is often asked by clients who admit they committed the alleged crime why they should hire an attorney, as well as how a defense attorney might still be able to help with their case.
“The fact is that we all make mistakes,” he said. “Even if someone may have committed the crime for which they are charged, a skillful and knowledgeable attorney can improve the outcome of the case.”
Criminal cases may be dismissed for a number of reasons, Schatz said. Police officers sometimes take actions without proper legal justification, such as making an illegal traffic stop or conducting an illegal search. A defense attorney can file a motion to suppress the illegally obtained evidence, leading to a dismissal of charges. Furthermore, officers may fail to follow proper procedures, which can also result in the suppression of evidence.
“A thorough investigation of your case and a careful and thorough review of the evidence may reveal a defense that you may not have even thought was possible,” he added.
Even if there’s not a complete defense to the charges, Schatz said that having an experienced and knowledgeable lawyer advocating for you may result in a lighter sentence. Before the plea bargain, the attorneys at Schatz Anderson & Associates often help clients enroll in mental health counseling and/or substance abuse treatment. Other activities, such as performing community service and paying restitution, can also persuade prosecutors and judges to view the case with more leniency.
Schatz and his colleagues strive to help clients avoid the most damaging consequences of a criminal conviction, which can include jail time, loss of driving privileges, immigration consequences or the suspension of a professional license. Some clients are able to accept a plea in abeyance and be placed on probation. If they fully comply with the terms of probation, the charge will ultimately be dismissed without a conviction.
“In many cases, there may be explanations, extenuating circumstances or personal circumstances that can be used to advocate for a more favorable outcome,” he added.
Schatz and Steve Anderson joined forces to establish Schatz Anderson & Associates in 2003. Today, it’s the pre-eminent DUI defense firm in the state, with fully staffed offices in both Salt Lake City and St. George.
Schatz and Anderson are both members of the Utah State Bar, the Salt Lake County Bar, the Utah Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the National College of DUI Defense. Together, they’ve represented more than 5,000 DUI cases.
Although DUI defense accounts for roughly 75% of the firm’s caseload, they represent many types of criminal cases, from misdemeanors such as drug possession and domestic violence to felonies including aggravated assault, auto theft, drug distribution and robbery.
“We’re ready to serve everybody’s needs anywhere in the state,” Schatz said. “There’s probably not a court in Utah that I haven’t been in at one time or another.”
The attorneys at Schatz Anderson & Associates have more than 50 years of combined experience in Utah DUI and criminal defense. To schedule a free consultation, call 435-251-9647 or visit their website.
Written by ALEXA MORGAN for St. George News.
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- Schatz Anderson & Associates | Address: 321 N. Mall Drive #0-201, St. George | Telephone: 435-251-9647 | Email: [email protected] | Website.
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