Tempe Car Accident & Criminal Defense FAQ

Common Car Accident Questions

What should I do right after a car accident in Tempe?

Ensure safety, call 911, get medical care, and contact a lawyer before speaking to insurers.

How much does a Tempe auto accident lawyer cost?

No upfront fees. We work on contingency—no win, no fee.

What if I was partly at fault?

Arizona follows comparative negligence. Liability is determined between you and the other driver. You may still recover damages, reduced by your percentage of fault.

How long do I have to file a claim in Arizona?

Generally, the statute of limitations is two years from the accident date, but don’t wait—evidence fades.

Can I recover lost wages after a car crash?

Yes, lost wages and future earning capacity are part of damages we pursue.

Why choose Bala Legal Services over other Tempe car accident attorneys?

Because Adithya combines negotiation skill with genuine compassion—he puts clients first and has extensive experience holding negligent drivers accountable.

Common Criminal Defense Questions

Do I need to hire an attorney for my criminal charges?

Yes. Arizona boasts some of the strictest DUI and criminal legislation in the country. You must seek the guidance of a seasoned Arizona Criminal Defense Attorney as soon as possible to assess your case, evaluate the charges against you, and formulate a defense strategy. It is advisable to engage the services of a specialist Criminal Defense or DUI Defense lawyer rather than a general practitioner attorney, as the laws governing these offenses can rapidly evolve.

Your chosen attorney should have a proven track record in handling these cases and be familiar with current laws, local judges, prosecutors, and court procedures. Lawyers must hold a valid license in the state where they wish to practice. Be cautious when retaining an attorney licensed in Arizona but also practices in another state. In most cases, an Arizona-based lawyer will have more credibility and greater bargaining power when negotiating with Arizona prosecutors and judges.

What should I do if the Police stop me?

When you become aware that the police are signaling you to pull over, do so promptly and safely. Turn off your vehicle and open the window. Keep your hands visible, such as on the steering wheel, for the police officer to see. Everyone should exhibit respectful and courteous behavior if passengers are in the vehicle. When asked, provide the officer with your driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance proof. It is essential to avoid admitting guilt or attempting to talk your way out of the situation, as your statements may be used against you in court. Remember to exercise your constitutional right to remain silent.

Refrain from consenting to a search without a warrant or agreeing to any recording, but understand what a search incident to arrest is. Furthermore, concerning Arizona law, you must submit to a blood draw if the officer asks for one. If you do not, your license will automatically be suspended, and the officers will likely issue you with a search warrant and obtain your blood either way.

Should I consent to the Police searching my car?

No. Do not permit any searches in your car without a search warrant. Inform the police that a warrant is required before they search your car. If the police officer searches your vehicle based on probable cause, maintain politeness and wait. Then, seek the counsel of a defense attorney as soon as possible.

If the police officer did not read my Miranda rights during my arrest, does this impact the case?

Contrary to popular belief, police officers are not obligated to recite Miranda warnings each time they make an arrest. Instead, they must inform you of your Miranda rights before conducting any questioning regarding a potential crime while you are under arrest. Suppose the Miranda rights are not read to you in these circumstances. In that case, the incriminating statements you made may be deemed inadmissible in court, potentially resulting in a dismissal of charges.

What if I am an out-of-state visitor arrested for DUI in Arizona?

Arizona has stringent DUI laws, and it's not uncommon for individuals from outside the state to be arrested for DUI while driving through the state. Our firm can arrange for you to participate in court and DMV proceedings via telephone. It's important to keep in mind that a DUI conviction in Arizona may have implications for your driving privileges in your home state.

Can I be arrested for DUI for sleeping in my car?

Yes. In Arizona, a DUI charge can be brought against you if you were in "actual physical control" of the car. This can be misleading, as "DUI" typically implies driving. The authorities will consider various factors such as the status of the engine, the whereabouts of the keys, the location of the parked vehicle, and even your sleeping position in the car. These cases often have strong defenses, and our attorney at Bala Legal Services has a proven track record of successfully defending such cases through trial.

What happens after I am arrested and taken to jail?

Within 24 hours of your arrest, you will have a court appearance before a Judge or Judge Magistrate. You must seek the assistance of an Arizona criminal defense attorney within this time frame. Attorney Aithya Bala can protect your constitutional rights, handle your arraignment proceedings, enter a "not guilty" plea, file notices of defenses and representation, and more.

The judge may issue a warrant and set a bond amount for your appearance in court. If you cannot pay the bond, you may be required to remain in custody until your court date. On the other hand, if you can post the bond, you will be released until your arraignment hearing, during which you will be informed of your rights and potential consequences and enter a plea.

Should I hire a private criminal defense attorney or a public defender?

The primary distinction between public defenders and private attorneys is how they are employed. Public defenders are contracted or employed by the state, county, or local government. They are obligated to defend a specified number of cases for those who cannot afford private counsel.

Financial resources determine public defense eligibility, and fees may be associated with this option. Maricopa County public defenders, for example, handle a high volume of cases, leading to a heavy workload for a limited number of lawyers. This can impact the time and resources available for each case, potentially affecting its outcome.

In contrast, private DUI defense attorney Adithya Bala controls his caseload, allowing him to provide personal attention and customized defense for each client. By regulating his workload, he ensures each client has the necessary time and effort dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome in their case.

FAQ

Common Car Accident Questions

Common Criminal Defense Questions

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