Felony Criminal Charges in Arizona and What’s at Stake

By David Lish

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Criminal Defense , Felony

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Jul 07, 2026

One of the most serious situations a person can face is felony criminal charges in Arizona. A felony offense carries potentially life-altering consequences. From years in prison, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record, a felony charge can follow you long after your sentence is served. If you or a loved one has been charged with a felony crime, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney in your corner immediately.

At Grand Canyon Law Group, our attorneys use their experience as former Arizona prosecutors to dismantle the states case. We represent clients across the Phoenix Metro and throughout Arizona, fighting for the best possible outcome for every client facing a felony charge.

Understanding Felony Criminal Charges in Arizona

In Arizona, a felony is a criminal offense that carries a sentence of more than one year in state prison. Felonies are classified into six categories, Class 1 through Class 6. Class 1 felonies are the most serious. Each class carries its own sentencing range. In addition, prior criminal history, aggravating factors, or the involvement of dangerous weapons can significantly increase a prison sentence.

Arizona also has a Repetitive Offender statute (ARS § 13-703) which means a second or third felony conviction can trigger mandatory enhanced sentencing. A third felony conviction for certain dangerous offenses can result in a mandatory prison term with no possibility of early release.

Sentencing ranges by class include:

• Class 1 Felony: Life imprisonment or the death penalty
• Class 2 Felony: 3 to 12.5 years in prison (first offense)
• Class 3 Felony: 2 to 8.75 years in prison (first offense)
• Class 4 Felony: 1.5 to 3.75 years in prison (first offense)
• Class 5 Felony: 0.75 to 2.5 years in prison (first offense)
• Class 6 Felony: 0.33 to 2 years in prison (first offense)

For a full breakdown of Arizona repetitive, dangerous offences, visit the Arizona Judicial Branch Criminal Code Sentencing Chart.

Some offenses in Arizona may be filed as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances. The experienced felony defense legal team at Grand Canyon Law Group will review your situation and the possibility of negotiating charges as a misdemeanor which could significantly reduce potential jail time and long-term consequences.

Types of Felonies in Arizona

Grand Canyon Law Group’s criminal defense attorneys defend clients against all types of felonies in Arizona, including:

• Aggravated assault
• Armed robbery
• Homicide and manslaughter
• Sexual assault and sex crimes
• Kidnapping
• Drug trafficking and transportation for sale
• Possession of narcotics with intent to distribute
• Burglary (first and second degree)
• Arson
• Theft and grand theft
• Identity theft
• Weapons charges
• Child abuse and child molestation
• White collar crime (fraud, embezzlement, forgery)
• DUI causing serious injury or death
• Organized crime and RICO offenses

Below are details on some of the most common felony charges we handle in Arizona.

Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault is a Class 3 felony in Arizona (or higher, depending on circumstances) and can result in years in prison even for a first-time offender. The charge is elevated from simple assault when the defendant allegedly used a deadly weapon, caused serious physical injury, assaulted a police officer or protected class victim, or committed the offense in front of a minor. If you’re facing an aggravated assault charge, a strong defense can make a critical difference in your outcome. Learn more about assault charges in Arizona.

Drug Trafficking
Drug trafficking charges in Arizona are among the most aggressively prosecuted felony offenses. Depending on the type and quantity of controlled substance involved, a conviction can carry a mandatory minimum prison sentence of several years. Arizona law treats transportation for sale, possession with intent to distribute, and importation of drugs as serious Class 2 or Class 3 felonies. Arizona drug trafficking charges are aggressively prosecuted under A.R.S. 13-3408 and A.R.S. 13-3407. Our criminal defense lawyers know how to challenge the legality of searches and seizures, the reliability of informants, and the sufficiency of the state’s evidence.

White Collar Crime
White collar crime charges are typically nonviolent business crimes involving theft and financial gain. Examples of white collar crimes includes fraud, embezzlement, forgery, theft by extortion, and computer crimes. These can range from Class 6 to Class 2 felonies in Arizona depending on the dollar amount involved and the nature of the scheme. Even a first conviction can mean years in prison, restitution orders, and a criminal record that ends careers. Our criminal defense attorneys understand the financial and digital evidence these cases rely on, and we know how to build a strong defense against them.

Defenses Against Felony Charges in Arizona

Every felony case is different, and our attorneys will develop a defense strategy tailored to the specific facts of your situation. Common defenses may include:

• Lack of intent: many felony offenses require the state to prove criminal intent; if the act was accidental or mistaken, that’s a viable defense
• Self-defense or defense of others: Arizona has strong self-defense laws that may justify the conduct alleged
• Unlawful search and seizure: evidence obtained in violation of your Fourth Amendment rights may be suppressed
• Mistaken identity: eyewitness accounts are often unreliable, and alibi evidence can be decisive
• Insufficient evidence: the prosecution must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt
• Miranda violations and police misconduct: statements made without proper advisement may be inadmissible
• Entrapment: if law enforcement induced you to commit an offense you would not otherwise have committed

Our attorneys will review the police reports, witness statements, and all evidence gathered against you. If law enforcement made mistakes during your arrest or investigation, we will find them and use them to your advantage.

What to Do If You’ve Been Arrested for a Felony in Arizona

If you are arrested on felony charges, your actions in the hours immediately following can have a lasting impact on your case. Keep the following in mind:

• Remain calm and comply with officers, but do not answer questions about the alleged offense.
• Invoke your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney immediately.
• Do not discuss the facts of your case with anyone. This includes family members, until you have spoken with a criminal defense attorney.
• Do not consent to searches of your person, vehicle, or home.
• Contact Grand Canyon Law Group as soon as possible. Call 480-573-6441 for a free consultation and get the experience of former prosecutors on your side.

A court-appointed attorney may be available to you, but public defenders often carry heavy caseloads and may not dedicate the time your case deserves. The consequences of a felony conviction, years in prison, fines, a criminal record, loss of professional licenses, and restrictions on housing and employment, are too serious to leave to chance. Investing in experienced, dedicated representation is one of the most important decisions you can make.

Why Grand Canyon Law Group?

Our attorneys are former Arizona prosecutors. That inside knowledge gives our clients a decisive advantage when it matters most.

We represent clients facing all types of felonies across Maricopa County, Pima County, and throughout Arizona. Whether you’re facing a first felony offense or dealing with a prior criminal history that could enhanced sentencing, our team will build the strongest possible defense on your behalf.

We are aggressive, thorough, and relentless. We are committed to protecting your future with compassion, respect, and results.

Contact Us Today to Schedule a Free Consultation

If you are facing felony criminal charges in Arizona, do not wait. The sooner you have an experienced criminal defense attorney working your case, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Contact Grand Canyon Law Group today to schedule your free, confidential consultation. Call us at 480-573-6441. We are available 24/7 for urgent matters.