13 Feb What is a Felony in Arizona?

The complex legal system can be both difficult to unravel and intimidating. It helps to have certain terms explained in the simplest way possible, not shrouded by legal jargon. Having a Certified Criminal Law Specialist like Todd Coolidge certainly helps, but for those of you who want to just understand some basic terms, you’ve come to the right place! Many of us unfamiliar with the legal system might associate the term “felony” with any criminal charge, however that is far from the truth.

In general, a felony is a crime, more serious that a misdemeanor, that usually involves violence and is typically punishable by over 1 year in prison. In Arizona, a felony is a crime punishable by at least 1 year in prison. There are several classes of felonies, varying in their severity. Each class has a presumptive sentence, as well as aggravated and mitigated terms. If sentenced to an aggravated term sentence, you will face a longer term than the standard presumptive sentence.

Class 1 Felony: The most severe of felonies in Arizona, this class can carry with it prison sentences of 25 to life. The death penalty is also at play when it comes to Class 1 Felonies. This class is usually reserved for first degree murder.

Class 2 Felony: This class of felony carries with it 3.5 – 5 years in prison. Examples of possible crimes resulting in class 2 felony convictions include: creating child pornography, manslaughter or sexual assault.

Class 3 Felony: This class has a max of 3.5 years in prison. Examples of possible crimes resulting in class 3 felony convictions include: producing more than 4 lbs of marijuana, theft of a vehicle or burglary.

Class 4 Felony: This class has a max of 2.5 years in prison. Examples of possible crimes resulting in class 4 felony convictions include: theft of property valuing between three and four thousand dollars, aggravated DUI, possession of narcotics or identity theft.

Class 5 Felony: This class has a max of 1.5 years in prison. Examples of possible crimes resulting in class 5 felony convictions include: credit card theft, theft, or criminal damage

Class 6 Felony: This class has a max of 1 year in prison. Examples of possible crimes resulting in class 6 felony convictions include: resisting arrest, aggravated DUI and possession of marijuana.

Second or multiple time offenders can serve double or triple the times described above. If you are facing felony criminal charges, don’t wait. Contact Todd Coolidge today at 480-264-5111.

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (2/12/2016) Dan DeLuca(Flickr)

*The information in this blog is for general information purposes only. This blog post should not be taken to constitute a formal recommendation or professional advice. We exclude all representations, warranties, legal liability or responsibility relating to its content.