Let’s say you were scheduled to appear for your first court date in Maricopa County Superior Court, either Phoenix Criminal Court or Mesa Criminal Court in Arizona. Then upon arrival you learn that your criminal case was scratched.
The only thing you will be able to ascertain at that time, is that the court hearing will not take place on the date and time as instructed on your complaint or summons. You should consult the Law Office of James Novak Arizona criminal defense attorney, who defends charges in Superior Court to discuss the matter. Below are some additional facts about scratched criminal cases.
1. What it means to have your criminal court case scratched.After a person is arrested, the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office reviews the police report and determines whether formal charges should be filed in Court.
An initial appearance hearing usually takes place within 24 to 48 hours of your arrest where you appear before a judge after being taken into custody. The judge reads you the formal complaint at this time.
If the Maricopa County Attorney fails to file a complaint with the court within that time-frame the case is generally scratched.
If a complaint is filed, the Maricopa County Attorney will ask for a summons to be delivered to the address you provided or will ask for a warrant to be issued for your arrest.
2. A “scratched” case may or may not mean charges were dropped.Before you leave the court building, request documentation to take with you which indicates that your case was scratched.
Also, request that your appearance be documented with the court for the record as to the fact you did appeared on time for the previously scheduled court hearing. This will help you challenge a bench warrant for failure to appear in the event the scratch was an error by the court.
Depending on the nature and severity of the charges listed on the initial complaint you may want to consider pre-indictment representation as a precaution to protect and preserve your rights and freedom.
4. Time limits for filing of a formal complaint after the case is scratched.
Depending on the nature and severity of the initial charges, the police and prosecution may pursue continued investigation. For example, if the crime you are suspected of committing involves a violent or dangerous crime against a victim, they will likely need more time to investigate the incident.
During that time, the police or investigator may contact you asking you if they can discuss your case, or conduct an unwarranted search of your home, auto, or person.
To avoid self-incrimination, or jeopardizing your defense, it is recommended that you do the following:
If your case was scratched and charges were serious in nature, or involve a victim, the Law Office of James Novak can provide you with pre-charge representation. This will enable the Law Office of James Novak to act as a barrier against you and the prosecution. He will protect your rights and defenses. He will notify the court and prosecution that he legally represents you; that all written or verbal communications must go through him; and provide you with further guidance tailored to your defense.
Law Office of James Novak
4500 S. Lakeshore Drive
Tempe AZ 85282
Maricopa County DUI & Criminal Defense Firm
DUI, DWI, Drunk Driving, and Criminal Defense
Call (480) 413-1499 Valley-Wide Defense