Initial appearance court (Intake, Transfer and Release)
The first court date after an arrest, within 24 hours. Release conditions, including any no-contact order, are set here.
2670 S. 28th Dr., Phoenix, AZ 85009
Tempe release and bond
Release and Bond Lawyer in Tempe, AZ
Release terms are set fast. They can be revisited.
After a Tempe arrest, the first worry is often getting someone home, then understanding the rules attached to release: a bond, a no-contact term, a ban on alcohol or weapons, a court date that cannot be missed.
We can help. Nova Law Group was built by a former Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutor. We prepare every case as if it is going to trial, and we take a meticulous, aggressive approach, fighting from every angle, because the report is only one side of the story.
Talk to us before you talk to anyone else. Call (480) 405-6767. Consultations are free and confidential, and the earlier we are involved, the more we can do.
FounderRyan TaitFormer Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutorMeet Ryan →★ 5-star reviewsFormer felony prosecutorAvailable after hoursFlat fee on most criminal casesFree, confidential consultation
The charges
How release decisions arise after a Tempe arrest
Where it is decided
At the first appearance, within 24 hours of an arrest. On a felony booking into the county jail, that is the jail court at 2670 S. 28th Dr. in Phoenix.
The law
A.R.S. § 13-3967 lists the release conditions a judge can set.
Paying a bond
County bonds are paid at the Fourth Avenue Jail, 201 S. 4th Ave., Phoenix. For a Tempe city case, the release paperwork or Tempe Municipal Court, (480) 350-8271, explains how to post bond.
Changing terms
A request to change release terms goes to the court that has the case.
Tempe Police list a Detention Facility in their department directory. What happens after an arrest depends on the charge and the court.
On a felony. A person booked into the county jail on a felony has an initial appearance at the Intake, Transfer and Release facility, 2670 S. 28th Dr., Phoenix, run by the Superior Court. That first judge decides whether the person is released on their own recognizance, on bond or held, and sets the conditions. Under Arizona's Rule 4.1, the initial appearance must take place within 24 hours of the arrest, or the person is released. The felony case then moves to the downtown Superior Court complex; confirm the building on your current notice.
On a Tempe city misdemeanor. Tempe Municipal Court hears misdemeanors and criminal traffic cases from inside the city, and the Tempe City Attorney's Criminal Division prosecutes them. The court's guidance says a release order shows the court date, and that date matters: for a case begun by citation or complaint, the appearance date on the paper is the arraignment. Keep the release order with you and read every condition on it.
A missed date in city court. Tempe Municipal Court's Arrest Warrants page describes three ways to resolve one of its warrants: pay the bond amount the judge set, after which the warrant is quashed and a new date is set for a failure to appear; come in person to the court's Walk-in Docket, which does not allow virtual appearances; or ask the court to quash it by motion. The page also says the judge may require a bond before canceling a warrant.
Some pretrial conferences can be attended by video, according to the court's Virtual Court page; the conditions apply either way.
Paperwork names the court. The court and the case number on the release order or citation decide where you go and where a review is requested, and Tempe Municipal Court's case lookup at courtcaseinfo.tempe.gov shows city cases.
The law
What Arizona's release statutes require
The right to release. When the offense charged is bailable as a matter of right, the judicial officer orders release pending trial, either on recognizance or on bail in an amount the officer sets (A.R.S. § 13-3967(A)).
The factors. The judicial officer must consider a list that starts with the victim's views and includes the nature of the offense, the weight of the evidence, any danger to others, family ties, employment, financial resources, length of residence, the person's record and their history of appearing in court (§ 13-3967(B)).
The conditions. After notice to the victim, the officer may place the person with a supervising person or organization, restrict travel, associates or residence, require a cash deposit returned when the conditions are met, prohibit deadly weapons, alcohol or certain drugs, require supervision by an officer of the court, or order the person back into custody after specified hours (§ 13-3967(D)). Any felony release is conditioned on good behavior, and probable cause that the person committed any offense while released can lead to revocation (§ 13-3967(C)).
Mandatory terms. For a felony under chapter 14 or 35.1 of Title 13, § 13-3212, or a felony DV offense that results in physical harm, the officer must order electronic monitoring where available and no contact with the victim (§ 13-3967(E)). After a DV arrest, every release order must include conditions that protect the alleged victim (A.R.S. § 13-3601(I)).
The order and changes to it. The order must list the conditions, and the person must be told the penalties for a violation and that a warrant can issue immediately (§ 13-3967(F)). Conditions, including the amount of bail, can later be raised, lowered or changed, and on application the defendant is entitled to a review by the officer who set them or the court where the case is pending, with reasonable notice to the county attorney and the victim (§ 13-3967(G)).
No bail. Bail is denied when the proof is evident or the presumption great for the offenses listed in § 13-3961(A), among them capital offenses and sexual assault. For other felonies, the State can ask the court to hold a person without bail, and the court must make the findings § 13-3961(D) requires, by clear and convincing evidence; the hearing is held at the initial appearance or within 24 hours of it unless continued (§ 13-3961(E)).
A felony violation. On the prosecutor's verified application, a judicial officer may issue a warrant for a felony defendant accused of willfully violating release; after a hearing the court may add or change conditions, and release may be revoked on probable cause that the person committed a felony while out (A.R.S. § 13-3968).
Release and Bond Lawyer in Tempe, AZ
Working on release from the first call
On a felony, appointed counsel attaches.
Prepare for the first hearing
If we hear early, we gather the facts § 13-3967(B) puts in front of the judge: a job, family ties, a stable address and a record of showing up.
Ask for a review
Under § 13-3967(G) we can raise a bond the family cannot meet, work travel, or a no-contact term that bars someone from home. The prosecutor and the alleged victim get notice, so the request should be concrete and supported.
Meet a detention motion
When the State asks to hold someone without bail, we prepare against each finding § 13-3961(D) requires.
Answer a claimed violation
A felony violation hearing under § 13-3968 asks whether the violation was willful, so we compare the order's wording, what the person was told and what actually happened.
Follow the order to the letter
A no-contact term binds you even if the protected person reaches out first. Do not answer; keep the messages for your lawyer and let the court decide any change. If the order bars weapons, ask how to comply before moving a firearm.
The law
Sources: Arizona statutes and Cornell Law School
The legal statements above rest on these texts, saved Oct 29, 2026.
Release and Bond Lawyer in Tempe, AZ
Release work from a former prosecutor's firm
Nova Law Group was built by Ryan Tait, a former Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutor. The practice is criminal defense first. We keep caseloads deliberately low, which means the lawyers on your case have time to actually watch the video and read the reports line by line. That early reading helps when a release review asks the judge to look again at what the report claims. We take cases to trial when trial is the right pressure. Overcharging happens, and a case that is genuinely prepared for trial changes the conversation with the prosecutor. Most criminal cases are quoted as a flat fee. Consultations are free and confidential.
Former felony prosecutorBuilt by a former Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutor.
Low caseloadsTime to watch the video and read the reports line by line.
Ready for trialA case prepared for trial changes the conversation with the prosecutor.
Flat feeMost criminal cases are quoted as a flat fee. Consultations are free and confidential.
Our office
Meet us on Camelback Road
Office: 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Tempe clients and families meet with us there by appointment.
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Resources
Tempe courts and official links
Where a Tempe case is heard depends on the charge and the agency. Some offices are in Tempe and some are in Phoenix. Each card has directions and the official website, so you can check details before you go.
Fourth Avenue Jail, Bond and Fine Room
Bonds and warrant amounts are paid here, at any hour.
201 S. 4th Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85003Tempe Municipal Court
Tempe misdemeanors and criminal traffic cases, from arraignment to trial. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone (480) 350-8271.
140 E. Fifth Street, Tempe, AZ 85281Maricopa County Superior Court, downtown
Felony cases prosecuted by the County Attorney. Confirm the building on your current notice.
Central Court Building, 201 W. Jefferson St., and South Court Tower, 175 W. Madison St., Phoenix, AZ 85003Laws cited on this page
- A.R.S. § 13-3967, Release on bailable offenses before trial; definition
- A.R.S. § 13-3601, Domestic violence; definition; classification; sentencing option; arrest and procedure for violation
- A.R.S. § 13-3968, Violation of conditions of release; hearing
- A.R.S. § 13-3961, Offenses not bailable; purpose; preconviction; exceptions
Common questions
Tempe release and bond questions
At the initial appearance. A person booked into the county jail on a felony sees a judge at the Intake, Transfer and Release facility on 28th Drive, which the Superior Court runs, and Rule 4.1 requires that hearing within 24 hours of arrest. The judge decides release and conditions there.
Act quickly. The court's Arrest Warrants page lists three routes: paying the bond amount the judge set, appearing in person at the Walk-in Docket, or asking the court to quash the warrant by motion. The judge may require a bond before canceling the warrant. A lawyer can help you choose the route and explain why the date was missed.
Yes, through the court. Arizona law lets the court amend conditions, including raising or lowering bail, and gives a defendant the right to ask for a review by the judge who set them or the court where the case is pending. The county attorney and the victim get reasonable notice. Until a judge changes the order, every condition stays in force, including a no-contact term.
No. A no-contact condition limits what you may do, regardless of who starts the conversation. Answering a call, a text or a visit can be treated as a violation, and on a felony the prosecutor can ask for a warrant. Do not reply. Save the messages and give them to your lawyer, who can ask the court to modify the order if that is appropriate.
Release and Bond Lawyer in Tempe, AZ
Call while the release decision is still open
Call (480) 405-6767. If someone is in custody right now, or a warrant is outstanding, phone us instead of using the form.
Nova Law Group, PLLC, 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., by appointment.
Client reviews
Hear What Our Clients Say
From our Google reviews, plus Yelp and Avvo. These are clients’ own words, reproduced from our review profiles.
★★★★★
“These guys are the best attorneys in all of Arizona. It is definitely the most professional group of lawyers… I recommend this firm!”
★★★★★
“Sydney was extremely thorough regarding every single detail of my criminal case… it ultimately resulted in a clear and powerful win for my case.”
★★★★★
“They fought tirelessly for my case and helped me achieve a favorable outcome. Exceptional service and results.”
★★★★★
“The firm provided me with the most professional legal representation possible. Mr. Ryan Tait patiently explained… beyond my expectations.”
★★★★★
“The best law firm that I have ever dealt with. The amount of passion & commitment that they dedicated for my case… truly what separated them from other law firms.”
★★★★★
“Oh my goodness, our lawyer Ryan Tait was amazing. He does what he says he’s going to do. A very patient lawyer… He’s a miracle worker.”
★★★★★
“I was being charged with a few felony counts and facing a few years in prison… I made the best choice of my life calling this law firm.”
★★★★★
“…they reached out to one of their attorneys and confirmed my suspicions; I’ve been worried this whole time about criminal charges, they put my fears to rest. HIGHLY recommend them.”
★★★★★
“Helpful and clear direction in a time of uncertainty. Highly recommended.”
★★★★★
“Ryan Tait was amazing and really helpful. I would recommend him.”
★★★★★
“If you’re looking for a law group that truly cares about you and makes a difficult situation less stressful, these are your people… Alexis was my lawyer, and she was truly heaven-sent.”
★★★★★
“Alexis Brooks was my lawyer… She was extremely professional yet down to earth and always made me feel at ease and confident in my case. I would definitely recommend her for anyone that needs an excellent defense attorney.”
★★★★★
“Spectacular representation! Sydney was very compassionate, diligent and professional. I can’t recommend enough.”
★★★★★
“…Ryan and his team are kind, understanding, and very good listeners. Each member of his team was well educated, knowledgable and very professional.”
★★★★★
“We hired Mr. Tait to handle a legal affair for a member of our family. It was a complex criminal case that required over two years of work! Through the entire effort, Mr. Tait kept us informed…”
★★★★★
“My family hired Ryan Tait to fight for my family member… He went over all the pros and cons. He answered all our questions and calls. He knows what he is doing.”
★★★★★
“Ryan is absolutely awesome and professional. He gave me all detailed advice I needed. He is nice and patient. I definitely recommend Ryan and his law firm!”
★★★★★
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“These guys are great!! They did a great job on my case, super consistent and helpful. Definitely will recommend them to anyone.”
★★★★★
“Excellent lawyers… and their honesty, and they helped me even though I do not live in Arizona.”
Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Reseñas de clientes
Lo que dicen nuestros clientes
De nuestras reseñas en Google, además de Yelp y Avvo. Son las palabras de nuestros clientes, tomadas de nuestros perfiles de reseñas y traducidas del inglés.
★★★★★
“Son los mejores abogados de todo Arizona. Sin duda es el grupo de abogados más profesional… ¡Recomiendo esta firma!”
★★★★★
“Sydney fue sumamente minuciosa con cada detalle de mi caso penal… al final, eso resultó en una victoria clara y contundente para mi caso.”
★★★★★
“Lucharon incansablemente por mi caso y me ayudaron a lograr un resultado favorable. Servicio y resultados excepcionales.”
★★★★★
“La firma me brindó la representación legal más profesional posible. El Sr. Ryan Tait me explicó con paciencia… más allá de mis expectativas.”
★★★★★
“La mejor firma de abogados con la que he tratado. La pasión y el compromiso que dedicaron a mi caso… es lo que realmente los distinguió de otras firmas.”
★★★★★
“¡Dios mío, nuestro abogado Ryan Tait fue increíble! Cumple lo que dice que va a hacer. Un abogado muy paciente… Hace milagros.”
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★★★★★
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★★★★★
“Orientación útil y clara en un momento de incertidumbre. Muy recomendables.”
★★★★★
“Ryan Tait fue increíble y de gran ayuda. Lo recomendaría.”
★★★★★
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★★★★★
“Alexis Brooks fue mi abogada… Fue sumamente profesional y a la vez sencilla, y siempre me hizo sentir tranquilo y seguro con mi caso. Sin duda la recomendaría a cualquiera que necesite una excelente abogada defensora.”
★★★★★
“¡Representación espectacular! Sydney fue muy compasiva, diligente y profesional. No puedo recomendarla lo suficiente.”
★★★★★
“…Ryan y su equipo son amables, comprensivos y saben escuchar. Cada miembro de su equipo demostró estar bien preparado, con conocimiento y gran profesionalismo.”
★★★★★
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★★★★★
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★★★★★
“Excelentes abogados… y su honestidad y eso que me ayudaron que yo no vivo en Arizona”
Los resultados anteriores no garantizan un resultado similar.
Talk to a Tempe criminal defense lawyer
If you have been arrested, charged, or contacted by a detective in Tempe, the decisions you make in the first few days matter. We defend misdemeanors in Tempe Municipal Court and the justice courts, and felonies in Maricopa County Superior Court downtown.
Free, confidential consultation: (480) 405-6767
Prefer not to call? Send us your case details and a member of our team will follow up with you.
Tempe courts
- Tempe Municipal CourtMisdemeanors and criminal traffic cases from inside Tempe. Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.140 E. Fifth St., Tempe, AZ 85281Court website Directions
- Justice courtsSome DPS and Sheriff's Office misdemeanors. Your citation names the court.Find your court
- Maricopa County Superior CourtFelonies, at the downtown criminal court complex.Central Court Building, 201 W. Jefferson St., and South Court Tower, 175 W. Madison St., Phoenix, AZ 85003Court website Directions
Our office: Nova Law Group, PLLC, 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., by appointment. Directions
Hable con un abogado de defensa penal en Tempe
Si lo arrestaron, lo acusaron o un detective lo contactó en Tempe, las decisiones que tome en los primeros días importan. Defendemos delitos menores en la Corte Municipal de Tempe y en las cortes de justicia, y delitos graves en la Corte Superior del Condado de Maricopa en el centro de Phoenix.
Consulta gratuita y confidencial: (480) 405-6767
¿Prefiere no llamar? Envíenos los detalles de su caso y un miembro de nuestro equipo se comunicará con usted.
Cortes de Tempe
- Corte Municipal de TempeDelitos menores y casos penales de tránsito dentro de Tempe. De lunes a viernes, de 8:00 a.m. a 5:00 p.m.140 E. Fifth St., Tempe, AZ 85281Sitio de la corte Cómo llegar
- Cortes de justiciaAlgunos delitos menores del DPS y de la Oficina del Sheriff. Su citación indica la corte.Busque su corte
- Corte Superior del Condado de MaricopaDelitos graves, en el complejo penal del centro.Central Court Building, 201 W. Jefferson St., and South Court Tower, 175 W. Madison St., Phoenix, AZ 85003Sitio de la corte Cómo llegar
Nuestra oficina: Nova Law Group, PLLC, 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. De lunes a viernes, de 8:00 a.m. a 6:00 p.m., con cita previa. Cómo llegar
RecognitionReconocimientos
Awards and ratingsPremios y calificaciones
Awards and ratings reflect the standards of the organizations that issue them. They do not predict the outcome of any case.Los premios y las calificaciones reflejan los criterios de las organizaciones que los otorgan. No predicen el resultado de ningún caso.