Glendale Felony Attorney
Most people know that criminal offenses categorized as felonies carry much harsher sanctions than misdemeanors. However, you may not know that Arizona takes a somewhat unique approach to sentencing for felonies. It can be difficult to understand these sentencing guidelines and effectively defend yourself against felony charges without guidance from a knowledgeable attorney.
No matter what offense you are accused of or how your charges are classified under state law, help from the former prosecutors at Grand Canyon Law Group will be vital to protecting your rights throughout your legal proceedings. A Glendale felony lawyer at our firm can explain every aspect of your case and work tirelessly to defend your way of life.
For a free legal consultation with a felony lawyer serving Glendale, call 480-400-5555
HOW DOES FELONY SENTENCING WORK IN GLENDALE?
Like many other states, Arizona splits felony offenses into multiple categories: Class 1 through Class 6. Each category has different sentencing guidelines. While some states impose broad sentencing maximums on various categories of felonies, Arizona law specifies minimum, maximum, and “presumptive” prison terms for each category, as well as “mitigated maximum” and “aggravated maximum” terms if there are certain mitigating or aggravating actors.
Under Arizona Revised Statute §13-702, the sentencing ranges for first-time felony offenders are as follows:
- Class 1: 10 years to life imprisonment or the death penalty, depending on the circumstances
- Class 2: three to 12.5 years
- Class 3: two to 8.75 years
- Class 4: one to 3.75 years
- Class 5: six months to 2.5 years
- Class 6: four months to two years
As our Glendale felony attorneys can explain, repeat offenders are subject to enhanced sentencing ranges outlined in A.R.S. §13-703. For example, a second-time felony offender convicted of a class 2 felony could face between 4.5 and 23 years of imprisonment, and the range for third and subsequent convictions in this same category would be between 10.5 and 35 years.
Glendale Felony Lawyer Near Me 480-400-5555
UNIQUE SENTENCING RANGES FOR “DANGEROUS” FELONIES
Certain felony offenses considered “dangerous” are subject to increased sentencing ranges outlined in A.R.S. §13-704. As with non-dangerous felony offenses, repeat offenders may face larger minimum and maximum terms in prison upon conviction. For instance, a first-time dangerous class 2 felony offender could face between seven and 21 years in prison, but someone convicted of one prior non-dangerous felony would instead face between 14 and 28 years.
A unique set of sentencing ranges for “dangerous crimes against children” is outlined in A.R.S. §13-705. This range works a little differently than the usual sentencing ranges in that it does not differentiate between offenses based on their class. Regardless of the specific felony charges, discussing the potential penalties with a seasoned Glendale lawyer should be a priority.
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SPEAK WITH A GLENDALE FELONY ATTORNEY ABOUT LEGAL OPTIONS
Being accused of any kind of felony offense in Arizona is a serious matter that could come with life-changing consequences. Even one conviction for a felony charge could lead to years of imprisonment as well as the loss of various civil privileges. Repeat offenders can receive even harsher sanctions upon conviction.
Guidance from a Glendale felony lawyer will be crucial to effectively contesting the allegations and protecting your future. At Grand Canyon Law Group, our former prosecutors are now defense attorneys dedicated to representing people in your situation. We believe you have a way of life worth saving. Call us today to learn how we can fight for you.
Call or text 480-400-5555 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form