What Are Felony Classes in Arizona and How Are They Determined?

Felony classes in Arizona are determined by the severity of the crime committed. Felonies are the most serious type of criminal offense and can result in long-term imprisonment, hefty fines and other penalties. In Arizona, felonies are divided into six classes ranging from Class 6 felonies to Class 1 felonies. The class of felony is determined by the nature of the crime and any aggravating factors that may be present.

If you’ve been charged with a violent crime in Arizona, such as assault, domestic violence or robbery, your crime will likely be considered a felony and you’ll be facing the possibility of harsh punishments ranging from a few years to a lifetime in prison or even the death penalty.

In Arizona (and all other states), everyone has the right to a defense attorney when accused of or investigated for a crime. If you’re being charged with a felony, law enforcement and state prosecutors will work relentlessly to gather evidence and build a compelling case against you. Hiring a criminal defense lawyer may be an effective way to protect your rights and ensure you receive a fair trial.

What Is Considered a Felony in Arizona?

Under Arizona law, a felony is a crime that typically involves violence and is more serious than a misdemeanor. Felonies are usually punishable by imprisonment for more than one year.

Examples of felonies in Arizona include:

• Murder
• Manslaughter
• Assault
• Rape
• Child abuse
• Child abduction
• Robbery
• Burglary
• Arson
• Kidnapping
• Drug trafficking
• Car jacking

Classification and Penalties of Felonies in Arizona

According to Arizona law, felonies are classified into six categories: Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, Class 4, Class 5 and Class 6.

A felony is assigned a class based on the severity of the crime and the potential penalty associated with it. The most severe felonies are classified as Class 1 and the least severe as Class 6.

Class 1 felony: A Class 1 felony is the most serious type of felony in Arizona and carries a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison or, in extreme cases, the death penalty. Examples of Class 1 felonies include first-degree murder, kidnapping for ransom or extortion, armed robbery and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

Class 2 felony: A Class 2 felony carries a minimum sentence of four years in prison and a maximum sentence of 12.5 years in prison. Examples of Class 2 felonies include manslaughter, sexual conduct with a minor under 15 years old, sexual assault, armed robbery and possession or use of dangerous drugs for sale.

Class 3 felony: A Class 3 felony carries a minimum sentence of two years in prison and a maximum sentence of eight years in prison. Examples of Class 3 felonies include certain types of sexual abuse, illegally discharging a firearm at a non-residential building, and aggravated assault or robbery.

Class 4 felony: A Class 4 felony carries a minimum sentence of one year in prison and a maximum sentence of three-and-a-half years in prison. Examples of Class 4 felonies include aggravated DUI, kidnapping, perjury and bribery and third-degree burglary.

Class 5 felony: A Class 5 felony carries a minimum sentence of six months in prison and a maximum sentence of two-and-a-half years in prison. Examples of Class 5 felonies include theft of over $2,000 but less than $3,000, criminal damage over $2,000 but less than $3,000, assault on a police officer, rioting and animal cruelty.

Class 6 felony: A Class 6 felony carries no mandatory minimum sentence but has an upper limit on sentencing at two years imprisonment. Examples of Class 6 felonies include theft under $2,000 but more than $1,000 (petty theft), criminal damage under $2,000 but more than $1,000 (vandalism) and endangerment.

In addition to prison sentences, punishment for felony convictions may include probation, community service, restitution payments to victims of the crime and court-related costs.

Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Phoenix to Protect Your Rights

If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Phoenix, contact Michael Alarid III – one of the Valley’s top-rated criminal defense lawyers. Michael Alarid III has many years of experience and tirelessly advocates for the best interests of his clients.

Schedule a consultation by calling 602-818-3110 today.