Phoenix Felony Lawyer

Felony Attorney in Phoenix, AZ

At any given time, there are countless people incarcerated in Phoenix, many of whom are awaiting trial for felony charges. If you have been charged with a serious criminal offense, it is important to contact an experienced Phoenix felony lawyer as soon as possible so they can begin protecting your rights and developing a strong defense strategy.

The Phoenix criminal defense lawyers at Grand Canyon Law Group are former prosecutors who understand the high stakes for those charged with felonies. Our team has successfully fought thousands of criminal cases, and we are here to advocate tirelessly for you.

HOW A LAWYER HELPS WITH FELONY CHARGES

Being charged with a felony is a serious situation. If convicted, the charge will remain on the defendant’s permanent record and will appear in background checks for employment, education, and even housing. Additionally, having a felony on one’s record can make it harder for an individual to obtain insurance and can even prevent them from purchasing or possessing firearms.

A felony attorney can help develop a defense strategy to minimize the consequences of a potential conviction, which can include financial penalties and incarceration. A skilled lawyer at our Phoenix office can also work with the prosecutor on a plea agreement, if necessary.

AFTER A FELONY CONVICTION

If a defendant is convicted of felony charges, an attorney can assist them in seeking “set aside” status for their criminal record or in requesting post-conviction relief. A felony lawyer may also help with the restoration of civil rights, including the right to vote, to serve on a jury, to purchase a firearm, or to run for public office.

TYPES OF FELONY CHARGES IN PHOENIX

Felonies are the most severe types of criminal offenses. Most types of felonies in Arizona fall into three categories:

• Dangerous crimes, such as assault, domestic violence, certain types of drug offenses, homicide, and sex crimes
• Non-dangerous crimes, such as some types of drug offenses, fraud, conspiracy, theft, or identity theft
• Crimes against children, such as certain sex crimes, child abuse, or giving harmful substances (e.g., drugs or alcohol) to a minor

Felony charges typically involve the risk of at least one year in prison. While fines for felony convictions vary, some crimes carry up to $150,000 in financial penalties. There are other consequences associated with convictions, including required registration as a sex offender for certain sex crimes, restitution for property damage suffered by alleged victims, community service, drug or alcohol treatment, and other provisions.

Felonies in Arizona are classified into six categories, with Class 1 being for the most serious offenses, including murder, and Class 6 felonies potentially being eligible for reduction to a misdemeanor, depending on the facts of the case. Aggravating factors, such as the use of weapons, prior felony convictions, and minor children as victims, can all lead to enhanced penalties.

What the Phoenix Felony Process Looks Like

Felonies in Phoenix typically begin with an arrest or formal charges, followed by an appearance where the conditions of release are addressed. After the initial booking at Maricopa County Jail, located at 201 West Jefferson Street, the case proceeds to hearings, evidence disclosure, and other pre-trial proceedings.

If the defendant is released on bail, they can return to their home in Downtown Phoenix, Maryvale, Arcadia, or elsewhere as the case moves through plea bargaining and, if the defendant seeks it, a trial.

Throughout the process, the defense takes active steps to chip away at the state’s case when seeking reduced or dropped charges. The violent crime rate in Phoenix is 3.7 per 1,000 residents in a typical year, and cases typically result in a conviction, acquittal, or a plea bargain agreement.

Why You Should Hire a Felony Lawyer

The decision to hire a felony lawyer can help you avoid felony penalties, such as prison time. A Phoenix felony attorney can review the evidence to see if the prosecution has enough evidence to move forward with your felony charge. Your defense attorney for serious charges can suppress evidence, negotiate, and take other steps to ensure your freedom and rights remain protected.

FAQs

Q: What Can Felons Not Do in Arizona?

A: In Arizona, there are an estimated 221,000 people with felony convictions who are barred from voting. Beyond losing voting rights, convicted felons face restrictions on their Second Amendment rights, meaning they cannot own or possess a firearm. They may also be barred from obtaining certain work licenses. Some rights may be restored after completing a sentence, depending on the offense and criminal history.

Q: What Is the Penalty for a Felony in Arizona?

A: The penalties for a felony in Arizona vary based on the offense and whether the defendant has a prior record. The classifications range from Class 1 to Class 6, with Class 1 being the most serious. Many felonies carry minimum sentences that must be served in prison. Other penalties may include fines and restitution orders.

Q: What Is the Most Typical Punishment for a First-Time Felony?

A: The most typical punishment for a first-time, non-violent offense is probation, although there are no guaranteed outcomes in sentencing. Judges must sentence defendants within strict guidelines. First-time offenders are generally shown some leniency because they do not have a pattern of misconduct. Legal representation can further support efforts to avoid incarceration.

Q: Is It Possible to Avoid Prison Time for a Felony?

A: It is possible to avoid prison time for a felony when you work with a defense attorney who can understand Arizona’s felony laws and how to cast doubt on the prosecution’s narrative of events. By suppressing evidence or presenting mitigating facts, your attorney can see a favorable outcome to your case that protects your freedom.

CALL AN EXPERIENCED PHOENIX FELONY ATTORNEY TO DEFEND YOU

Facing a felony is an overwhelming and terrifying experience. Let a Phoenix felony lawyer help protect your rights, freedom, and way of life throughout the legal proceedings. If you have been accused of a serious crime, you deserve dedicated representation from an attorney who knows how to handle things the right way.

The Grand Canyon Law Group has significant experience representing individuals in your position. Regardless of what specific charges you face, reach out to our firm for a consultation. Legal counsel could significantly improve your chances of successfully defending your case and moving forward with your life.

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