Tucson, Arizona · Criminal Defense

Criminal Defense Attorneyin Tucson, Arizona

When criminal charges threaten your future, clarity and preparation matter. Attorney Joel Chorny helps clients understand the allegations, evaluate the evidence and make informed decisions about their defense.

Serving Tucson & Pima CountyEnglish & Spanish
Local representationServing clients in Tucson and throughout Pima County
Individual case strategyCareful review of charges, evidence and options
Clear communicationUnderstand your case and the decisions ahead
Criminal Defense Practice Areas

Defense for the charges that matter most

Each criminal allegation requires its own legal analysis. Explore Arizona practice areas and learn about the evidence, penalties, and potential legal issues involved.

DUI and Traffic Offenses

Driving-related allegations, license issues and Arizona DUI proceedings.

Explore DUI defense

Assault and Battery Charges

Violent-crime allegations involving intent, evidence and potential justification defenses.

Explore assault defense
Attorney Joel Chorny standing with arms folded in front of a law library
Joel ChornyCriminal Defense Attorney · Tucson, Arizona

Theft and Burglary Charges

Property-offense classifications, valuation disputes and unlawful-entry allegations.

Explore theft defense

Looking to clean your record?

Learn about Arizona record sealing, eligibility, waiting periods and other relief options.

Explore record relief ↗
Meet Your Attorney

Personal attention. Serious preparation.

Since 2011, Joel Chorny has practiced criminal defense in Tucson, representing people accused of offenses ranging from DUI to serious felony allegations. As the sole attorney at his firm, he emphasizes personal involvement and attentive representation.

Joel is a graduate of The George Washington University Law School and a Thurgood Marshall Scholar. He also teaches trial skills at the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law. His approach combines careful case preparation, direct communication, and a commitment to protecting clients’ rights.

  • Criminal defense practice since 2011
  • George Washington University Law School graduate · Thurgood Marshall Scholar
  • Trial-skills educator at the University of Arizona
  • Defense representation for misdemeanors and serious felonies
Joel Chorny, criminal defense attorney in Tucson Arizona
Joel Chorny · Criminal Defense Attorney · Tucson, Arizona
Our Approach

A clearer path through a difficult time

A thoughtful defense begins with understanding the situation—not with promises about an outcome.

01

Understand the charge

Identify the alleged offense, deadlines, potential consequences and questions that need answers.

02

Examine the evidence

Review reports, witness accounts, digital records and procedural concerns relevant to the case.

03

Prepare a strategy

Consider legal challenges, negotiations and court preparation suited to the facts and applicable law.

Case Experience

Explore real results with the right context.

Joel’s published case results reflect careful investigation, challenges to the evidence, and preparation for trial.

Selected case results

  • First-degree murderNot guilty

    A trial acquittal for a veteran whose defense centered on self-defense.

  • Hit and runNot guilty

    A jury acquittal in a case involving whether the driver knew he had struck a person.

  • DUICase dismissed

    Dismissal after evidence obtained through an unlawful garage entry was suppressed.

  • Child molestationCase dismissed

    Dismissal following investigation and efforts to obtain additional evidence from the prosecution.

Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome in any future case.

Exterior of the Law Office of Joel Chorny in downtown Tucson, Arizona
The Law Office of Joel Chorny · 177 N Church Ave, Suite 1100, Tucson, AZ

Joel Chorny In the News

Attorney Joel Chorny is a regular go-to voice for local media, offering legal insight on the cases shaping Tucson. Watch his recent television interviews below.

Attorney Joel Chorny featured on Telemundo Arizona discussing Tucson sexual conduct case

Telemundo Arizona: Tucson Sexual Conduct Case — Attorney Joel Chorny Discusses the Case

Attorney Joel Chorny joins Telemundo Arizona to discuss a Tucson case involving attempted sexual conduct with a minor and the legal issues surrounding the case.

Attorney Joel Chorny discusses Tucson sexual conduct case on Telemundo Arizona

Tucson Sexual Conduct Case

Joel Chorny discusses the Tucson case with Telemundo Arizona.

As Seen On TV — Telemundo Arizona — Attorney Joel Chorny

"As Seen On TV" Telemundo Arizona

Legal insight on charges in a 3-year-old girl's death in Tucson.

Tucson Woman Accused of 90 Store Thefts

Tucson Woman Accused of 90 Store Thefts

How prosecutors handle cases involving repeated theft charges.

We Feel Watched — News interview

We Feel Watched: Cameras Aimed at a Family's Home

Atty. Chorny shares his legal perspective on a neighbor dispute.

Verified Client Perspectives

Words from the people who know our work

These quotations are published on the firm's existing testimonials page. Reviews reflect individual experiences, not a guarantee of results.

5.0 · Read Google reviews (197 reviews reported October 22, 2026; count may change)

“I've had the privilege of knowing Joel personally, and I can tell you without hesitation – he's exactly who you want in your corner when facing challenges.”

Steven BeckerPublished on the firm’s testimonials page

“Joel put me at ease from the moment I got on the phone with him. He was cordial, professional, and cut right to the chase.”

Ben CurtisPublished on the firm’s testimonials page

“Joel is an incredible lawyer and human. He took time to help me understand what was happening during a very stressful and weird situation.”

Dr. Charity LenhoffPublished on the firm’s testimonials page

“Joel is truly dedicated to his clients, tirelessly working on their cases with a level of commitment that is both inspiring and reassuring.”

Shawn HellmanPublished on the firm’s testimonials page

“His integrity with how he handled my case was exactly how I would’ve expected.”

Cris GomezPublished on the firm’s testimonials page

“Joel came recommended, and was quite helpful during my phone call with him. He was professional, courteous, and willing to give me advice with my traffic citation.”

Tina Sorce-ZirnheldPublished on the firm’s testimonials page

“I have been consistently impressed with Joel Chorny as a lawyer and a person. He is always willing to help, explains himself clearly, and is patient.”

Barbara SPublished on the firm’s testimonials page

“Joel is a very well-versed defense attorney and I would recommend him without hesitation. Joel is compassionate, very easy to talk to, listens and communicates well.”

Jennie UhlmannPublished on the firm’s testimonials page
Legal Education · Video

Watch Joel's latest video updates

Video commentary on Arizona criminal law and answers to questions people ask before hiring an attorney.

Latest upload

Why Charges can Change After a Grand Jury Indictment

Joel Chorny100 views

Watch the full discussion on YouTube.

Visit Joel's YouTube Channel ↗

More recent uploads

Videos & Shorts · Newest first

Recent uploads · Saved preview from October 24, 2026

Speak With Our Office

Get clear answers.Know your options.

A criminal matter can create urgent questions. Share only general information in this form; do not provide confidential case details until the firm confirms representation.

General Inquiry

Send a message

General inquiries only. Please do not include confidential case details. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Prefer another way to reach us? Call (520) 581-4196.

Questions & Answers

What should you know after a criminal charge?

Every case is different. These answers are a general starting point; an attorney can explain what the law means for your circumstances.

Ask About Your Case ↗
When should I hire a criminal defense attorney in Tucson?

Seek legal advice as early as practical after an arrest, citation or investigation. Counsel can help identify deadlines, preserve relevant evidence and explain the process before important decisions are made.

How do I choose a criminal defense attorney in Tucson?

Consider relevant criminal-defense experience, familiarity with Arizona courts, clear communication, fee transparency and whether the attorney explains your options without guaranteeing a result. Review the attorney's background and ask questions during a consultation.

How much does a criminal defense attorney cost in Arizona?

Fees vary with the allegations, complexity, investigations, motions, court appearances and potential trial preparation. Ask for a written explanation of scope, payment terms and additional costs.

Should I hire a private attorney or use a public defender?

Eligible defendants may receive appointed counsel based on applicable rules. Private representation is a separate option. Compare eligibility, availability, communication and your needs before making a decision.

What happens at an initial appearance in Arizona?

The court commonly addresses the charges, rights, release conditions and next steps. The process varies by court and case. Consult the Arizona Judicial Branch criminal case guide.

Can criminal charges be dismissed in Arizona?

Dismissal may be possible depending on the evidence, legal issues and prosecutorial decisions, but it cannot be promised. A defense lawyer can assess potential challenges and available case resolutions.

Can an Arizona criminal record be sealed?

Certain eligible records may qualify for sealing under A.R.S. § 13-911. Waiting periods, offense exclusions and other conditions apply. See our record sealing information.

Will my case automatically go to trial?

No. Some cases resolve through dismissal, negotiated agreements or other permitted procedures; others proceed to trial. The appropriate path depends on the charge, evidence and decisions made during the case.

Arizona Criminal Law Insights

Useful information before your next step

Explore common questions about the criminal court process. Visit the blog for the complete articles and updates.

Legal information about arraignment in Arizona

What is an arraignment in Arizona?

Understand one of the key stages in a criminal case.

First appearance in Arizona court

What happens at a first appearance?

Learn about rights, release conditions and court expectations.

Bail and bond in Arizona criminal cases

How bail and bond work

General information on release and related procedures.

Take the Next Step

Get clarity about your case—and what comes next.

If you are facing a criminal allegation in Tucson or Pima County, contact the Law Office of Joel Chorny to discuss your situation and potential next steps.

General information only, not legal advice. Contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. Results in past matters do not predict future outcomes.