About AZ Defenders — Criminal Defense Phoenix Law Firm

AZ Defenders is a criminal defense Phoenix firm with offices in Phoenix, Tempe, and Show Low. The practice claims a unique distinction in the state: it is the only Arizona firm with multiple certified DUI Specialists and Criminal Law Specialists on staff. Founder Craig Rosenstein is a board-certified DUI specialist and a former president of Arizona Attorneys for Criminal Justice. The team collectively brings more than 200 years of combined courtroom experience to cases across Maricopa County. For Phoenix-area residents comparing firms, browse the Phoenix attorney directory for additional local options.

The firm takes calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week, because most criminal charges in Phoenix begin with an arrest at an inconvenient hour. In addition, initial consultations are free. Attorneys Jonathan Goebel, Vicki Lopez, Rachelle Ferraro, and Ron Wood each hold state specialization credentials in DUI or general criminal practice. The firm has also been recognized by Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, and Phoenix Magazine.

What Clients Say

Reviewers praise the firm’s responsiveness at all hours and the detailed case strategy attorneys provide during the first meeting. Clients facing DUI charges highlight the team’s technical knowledge of breath and blood testing procedures. Others describe the attorneys as calm and steady during tense court appearances. Many note that fees were explained clearly upfront, which reduced stress during an already difficult time.

Criminal Defense Phoenix — Practice Areas & Services

• DUI defense across Phoenix, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, and Tempe municipal courts
• Drug possession and trafficking charges in Maricopa County Superior Court
• Assault, domestic violence, and violent crime defense
• Sex crimes and firearm offense representation
• White-collar crime, theft, and fraud defense
• Juvenile and federal criminal matters
• Record sealing and set-aside applications for prior convictions

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens after a DUI arrest in Phoenix?

You face two separate cases after a Phoenix DUI arrest. First, the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division handles license suspension through an administrative process with a 15-day request window. Second, the criminal case moves through Phoenix Municipal Court for misdemeanors or Maricopa County Superior Court for felonies. Missing the MVD deadline means an automatic suspension, so early legal help matters.

How much does a criminal defense attorney cost in Maricopa County?

Fees depend heavily on the charge, but most Phoenix firms offer free initial consultations. Misdemeanor DUI representation generally runs in the low five figures, while felony cases and trials cost more. Many firms also offer payment plans. Specifically, asking for a written fee agreement at the first meeting helps avoid surprises later.

Where are Phoenix criminal cases heard?

Misdemeanor cases typically move through Phoenix Municipal Court at 300 W. Washington Street. Felony charges move to Maricopa County Superior Court at 175 W. Madison Street. In addition, Maricopa County has specialized DUI and mental health courts for qualifying cases. Local counsel familiar with each courtroom can better predict timelines and plea options.