What Does Discovery Mean for Arizona Criminal Defense?

The Arizona discovery procedure in your criminal case may seem as though it takes a long time, but it's a very important aspect of building your case. "Discovery," in this context, is the procedure by which you, your Phoenix criminal defense lawyer, the prosecuting attorney, and the judge share information. Not all information is necessarily disclosed to all parties, but the discovery procedure means that certain information must be shared or must be provided if requested.

What Information is Shared during the Arizona Discovery Procedure?

In Arizona, discovery procedure reform in 2003 means that the prosecution must disclose police reports and the names of any experts they plan to use at the time of arraignment. Additionally, they may need to automatically disclose other information, such as witness statements, felony history of witnesses, and other pertinent information. For information that is not automatically "discovered," Arizona law often allows the defense to request it be disclosed.

Why Is Information Shared During Discovery in an Arizona Criminal Defense Case?

The Arizona discovery procedure helps protect your rights and lets you and your Tempe criminal lawyer better prepare for your trial. Essentially, the discovery procedure means you aren't likely to be taken by surprise with information that the prosecution plans to use against you. It also helps you and your attorney when considering a potential plea agreement. In some cases, the information provided by the prosecution can actually help your case!

If you have been arrested for a crime in Tempe, don't wait to contact an experienced Tempe criminal defense lawyer with Curry, Pearson & Wooten at 1-888-929-5292 today. We offer a completely-free, no-obligation legal consultation, during which you can get to know us and find out more about your rights. For additional information about who we are and what we do, request your FREE copy of our book, Arizona Criminal Law - What You Must Know.