The attorneys at Brown, Bradshaw & Moffat, LLP, are experienced in representing clients who live out of state and were arrested for a crime in Utah. If you live out of the state of Utah, defending yourself against a criminal accusation in Utah can seem overwhelming.
Call our attorneys to discuss the best way to fight the charges. In many cases, our attorneys can waive your appearance at many of your initial court dates so that you do not need to make any unnecessary trips back to Utah. In some cases, the entire case can be resolved without ever needing to return to court.
Arrest Warrants
We represent clients who have a felony or misdemeanor arrest warrant in Utah for an unresolved criminal accusation. In some cases, these warrants are quite old. Many of these warrants were issued after a failure to appear in court, bail jumping, or a violation of probation. We also represent clients awaiting extradition back to Utah from another state.
Crimes at the Airport
We also represent clients arrested at the Salt Lake City International Airport for a variety of crimes including carrying a concealed weapon or firearm, possession of marijuana or controlled substances, or disorderly intoxication.
College Students
Additionally, werepresent students at local colleges and universities in Salt Lake County including the University of Utah, Westminster College, Salt Lake Community College (SLCC), Stevens-Henager College, Neumont University, Ensign College, Eagle Gate College, and the Roseman University of Health Sciences.
Call (801) 532-5297 to speak to an attorney at Brown, Bradshaw & Moffat about the unique facts of your case so that we can begin your defense today.
Criminal Defense — Utah
Frequently Asked Questions: Student & Visitor Defense in Utah
1Do I need a Utah lawyer if I am an out-of-state student charged with a crime?
Yes. It is critical to hire an attorney licensed in Utah because state laws — especially regarding alcohol, marijuana, and DUIs — vary significantly from other states. A local attorney from Brown, Bradshaw & Moffat understands the specific court procedures in Salt Lake County and surrounding areas, and in many cases, we can appear in court on your behalf so you don't have to travel back to Utah for every hearing.
2What are the legal consequences of a DUI for an out-of-state visitor in Utah?
In Utah, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.05%, the strictest in the nation. If convicted, an out-of-state visitor faces Utah penalties — fines, potential jail time, and ignition interlock requirements — which are then reported back to your home state's DMV via the Driver License Compact. This often results in a secondary license suspension in your home state.
3Can a criminal charge in Utah lead to expulsion from my university?
Yes. Most Utah colleges and universities have a Student Code of Conduct that allows for disciplinary action — including suspension or expulsion — for off-campus criminal behavior. Our legal team not only defends you in criminal court but can also provide guidance on navigating university disciplinary hearings to protect your academic future and financial aid.
4Is marijuana possession legal for visitors with an out-of-state medical card?
Utah has very specific reciprocity laws. While Utah recognizes some out-of-state medical marijuana cards, you must still adhere to Utah's strict regulations regarding the form of the product (no smoking or open flame) and possession limits. If you are caught with recreational marijuana or flower intended for smoking, you can still be charged with a Class B misdemeanor under Utah Code § 76-18-207, regardless of your home state's laws.
5How can I keep a Utah criminal charge off my permanent record?
For first-time student offenders, we often pursue Plea in Abeyance agreements or Diversion programs. These allow the charges to be dismissed after a period of good behavior and completion of court-ordered requirements. Once dismissed, we can assist you with the expungement process to ensure the arrest does not appear on future background checks for employment or graduate school.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this document is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney regarding your specific situation. Contacting Brown, Bradshaw & Moffat does not create an attorney-client relationship.
Our office will contact you as soon as possible to arrange for you to discuss the facts of your case with an experienced criminal defense attorney in Salt Lake City, Utah. The use of this form for communication with our personnel does not establish an attorney-client relationship.
