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Complete Legal Glossary
Criminal Defense Terms
Criminal Defense
Representation of individuals accused of committing crimes, from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Doran Justice protects clients’ rights and builds strong cases in Maricopa County and across Arizona.
Arraignment
The first court appearance where charges are formally presented and the defendant enters a plea of not guilty. This is the official starting point of a case.
Bail / Bond
Bail and bond are used interchangeably. The terms refer to money set by the court to secure a defendant’s release before trial. Defendants and their loved ones can post bail or bond directly at the jail or they can utilize a third party bonding company to assist them.
Plea Bargain
An agreement with prosecutors where a defendant pleads guilty to reduced charges for lighter penalties. Doran Justice negotiates plea deals strategically when they serve the client’s best interests.
Discovery Process
The exchange of evidence between the defense and prosecution before trial. Reviewing this information helps identify weaknesses in the state’s case and prepare an effective defense.
Motion to Suppress
A legal request to exclude evidence obtained illegally, such as through an improper search or seizure. Successful motions can lead to the preclusion of key evidence or even case dismissals.
Pretrial Conference
A scheduled court appearance where lawyers and the judge discuss case progress and potential resolutions. Doran Justice uses these opportunities to negotiate favorable outcomes without trial when possible.
Probation Violations
Failing to follow court-ordered conditions such as attending classes or avoiding new charges. The firm defends clients accused of violations and works to minimize penalties.
Expungement / Set Aside
Arizona law generally does not allow for convictions to be expunged unless it is a simple marijuana conviction. However, Arizona allows some convictions to be “set aside,” which is the best possible designation for an unsealed record. The firm guides clients through the eligibility and filing process.
Record Sealing
Record sealing is possible in Arizona for most convictions and arrests. The sealing of a defendant’s record can make it so court documents, arrest records, probation records, and police reports are inaccessible to the general public.
Order of Protection / Injunction Against Harassment
An order of protection is civil order from a court that prevents or limits someone’s ability to contact others. They can also limit people’s ability to possess firearms or go to certain locations. Injunctions against harassment are similar to orders of protection but are reserved for situations in which there is no domestic relationship between the people. Doran Justice offers assistance for clients facing restraining orders or harassment injunctions, or for clients trying to obtain them.
Sentencing Mitigation Videos
Customized videos used to present a defendant’s personal circumstances and reduce potential sentences. Doran Justice sometimes uses these tools to humanize clients in the courtroom.
Family Law Terms
Family Law
Legal matters involving relationships, marriage, divorce, and child-related disputes. Doran Justice provides empathetic representation in sensitive family transitions.
Petition for Dissolution
Arizona’s legal term for filing divorce proceedings. The firm supports clients through contested and uncontested cases.
Legal Decision-Making (Custody)
Arizona’s updated term replacing “custody,” referring to parental authority over key child-related decisions. Doran Justice fights for arrangements that protect clients’ rights and children’s well-being.
Parenting Time
The agreed upon arrangement or court-ordered schedule that determines when each parent spends time with their children. Doran Justice helps create plans prioritizing the child’s best interests.
Child Support Guidelines
Arizona uses an income-based formula to calculate child support obligations. The firm ensures fair calculations and represents clients in modification disputes.
Spousal Maintenance
Also called alimony, this is financial support one spouse may be required to pay the other after divorce. Doran Justice negotiates or litigates arrangements based on each client’s circumstances.
Relocation Petitions
Requests to move a child a significant distance from the other parent after custody orders are set. Courts evaluate stability, relationships, and the child’s best interests before approving relocations.
Personal Injury Terms
Personal Injury
Legal claims arising from harm caused by negligence, accidents, or intentional acts. Doran Justice represents victims in cases such as auto accidents, slip-and-fall injuries, and dog bites.
Statute of Limitations
Arizona law sets strict filing deadlines, usually two years for personal injury claims. Missing these timelines can prevent victims from receiving compensation.
Demand Letter
A formal document requesting compensation from the responsible party before filing a lawsuit. Doran Justice drafts detailed demand letters to strengthen settlement negotiations.
Wrongful Death Claim
A civil lawsuit brought by surviving family members after a loved one’s death caused by negligence. The firm helps families seek justice and compensation for financial and emotional losses.
Pain and Suffering Damages
Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress after an accident or injury. Doran Justice uses evidence-driven strategies to maximize damage awards.
Personal Injury Settlements
Agreements reached between clients and responsible parties to resolve claims without going to trial. Doran Justice has secured significant settlements for accident and injury victims.
Client-Focused Terms
Zealous Advocacy
Providing dedicated, passionate representation to achieve the best possible outcome. Doran Justice treats every client’s case with the highest priority.
Compassionate Representation
Approaching legal challenges with empathy, understanding, and open communication. Doran Justice ensures clients feel supported during difficult times.
Client Portal
A secure online platform where clients can view documents, track progress, and communicate with their attorney. This improves transparency and reduces stress throughout the case.
Client Testimonials
Reviews and feedback from clients who have experienced Doran Justice’s services. These stories showcase the firm’s commitment to positive outcomes and client satisfaction.
Recognition & Awards
Doran Justice has been recognized as one of Phoenix’s top-rated criminal defense and family law firms. These accolades reflect the firm’s dedication to excellence.
Phoenix Legal Representation
Serving clients across Phoenix, Maricopa County, and greater Arizona. The firm’s central location makes it accessible for those needing in-person consultations.
Comprehensive Practice Portfolio
Doran Justice offers criminal defense, victim representation, personal injury, family law, and post-conviction services under one roof. This full-service approach ensures consistent, high-quality representation.
Legal Process & Evidence Terms
Burden of Proof
The responsibility to present evidence strong enough to prove a case in court. In criminal cases, the prosecution must prove guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt.”
Chain of Custody
The documented process for collecting, handling, and storing evidence in legal cases. Doran Justice scrutinizes custody issues to challenge improperly managed evidence.
Mitigating Circumstances
Factors presented to reduce the severity of penalties during sentencing, such as mental health, addiction, hardship, or rehabilitation efforts. Doran Justice prepares detailed mitigation strategies.
Affidavit
A written, sworn statement used as evidence in court. Doran Justice drafts and reviews affidavits carefully to strengthen client cases.
Subpoena
A legal order requiring someone to testify in court or provide documentary evidence. The firm uses subpoenas strategically to secure critical information.
Depositions / Interviews
A recorded, sworn or unsworn testimony taken before trial, often used to gather evidence and evaluate witnesses. Doran Justice deposes or interviews witnesses in cases to prepare for trial.
Expert Witness Testimony
Insights from professionals who provide specialized knowledge in cases like accident reconstruction or financial valuation. These expert opinions often strengthen client positions.
Settlement Negotiation
The process of resolving disputes before trial through financial agreements or compromises. Doran Justice uses strong negotiation strategies to secure favorable results.