Class 3 Felony in Arizona

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Understanding Class 3 Felonies in Arizona

A class 3 felony is among the more serious types of felonies in Arizona. If someone commits a class 3 felony for the first time, the typical prison sentence is between 2 and 8.75 years. However, if a person has several past felony convictions, the prison time can be as long as 25 years. Conviction might also lead to fines and restitution payments. If a person facing a class 3 felony charge hasn’t been convicted of a felony before, probation could be considered.

In Arizona, a “felony” is a serious type of crime.

The legal system in Arizona splits crimes into two main groups: “felonies” and “misdemeanors”

“Misdemeanors” are less serious crimes and could lead to up to six months in jail. On the other hand, “felonies” can result in prison time. How long someone goes to prison depends on how serious the felony is and if they have been convicted of felonies before. People convicted of felonies also can’t vote or have guns.

“Felony crimes” are put into six different groups, or “felony classes,” based on how serious they are.

• Class 1 Felonies
• Class 2 Felonies
• Class 3 Felonies
• Class 4 Felonies
• Class 5 Felonies
• Class 6 Felonies

Each of the felony classes comes with its own set of possible penalties, with class 6 felonies being the mildest and class 1 felonies being the most severe. Class 3 felonies are the third most strongly punished crimes.

Types of Class 3 Felonies in Arizona

In Arizona, there are more than 40 types of class 3 felony crimes. Some common examples of class 3 felonies include:

• Second-degree burglary
• Cultivation of 4 or more pounds of marijuana
• Aggravated robbery
• Theft of property worth $4,000 to $25,000
• Attempting Class 2 felonies like sexual assault
• Shooting at nonresidential buildings
• Aggravated assault
• Second-degree money laundering

Click here for a full list of Class 3 Felonies in Arizona.

Punishments and Sentencing For a Class 3 Felony

The consequences of a class 3 felony breach in Arizona vary depending on certain factors such as how many prior felonies the defendant has, whether the offense is categorized as a “dangerous” act, involving a deadly weapon, and more.

For non-dangerous class 3 felonies, the sentencing ranges are as follows:

1. No prior felonies: Probation possible, or 2 to 8.75 years in prison.
2. One prior felony: 3.25 to 16.25 years.
3. Two or more prior felonies: 7.5 to 25 years.

When convicted of a class 3 felony, the judge decides the sentence within the range. If mitigating factors outweigh aggravating ones, the sentence might be lighter. If aggravating factors prevail, the sentence could be harsher.

If a class 3 felony is “dangerous” due to a dangerous weapon like a gun, the enhanced sentencing range for “dangerous” crimes applies. Probation isn’t an option, even for a first offense. A first-time dangerous offender could face 5 to 15 years in prison for a class 3 felony.

Creating Customized Defense Strategies for Class 3 Felonies in Arizona

In the realm of Class 3 felony cases, creating defense strategies tailored to the unique circumstances is vital. These strategies are essential for navigating Arizona’s felony classifications. Each Class 3 felony case has its own distinctive elements shaped by Arizona laws.

Within Class 3 felony charges, every case carries its individual circumstances, evidence, and legal intricacies, all defined by Arizona laws. Building a strong defense requires a thorough case analysis, along with a strategic plan that fits the specific situation. This strategy is customized to align seamlessly with the individual case, considering various factors.

These factors include the evidence against the defendant, a solid grasp of legal precedents within Arizona’s Class 3 felony cases, and the identification of potential mitigating factors. By skillfully integrating these elements, the defense strategy becomes a tailored approach that suits the case perfectly. This approach ensures the protection of the defendant’s rights and a compelling case presentation. It leverages all available legal nuances and defense tactics provided by Arizona laws to offer a robust defense.

Class 3 Felony Statute of Limitations

A “statute of limitations” sets the time within which criminal charges must be filed after a crime is committed. As per ARS 13-170, class 3 felonies have a seven-year statute of limitations in Arizona. These time limits only apply when the defendant is in Arizona. If the defendant isn’t in the state, the clock stops, and the time away doesn’t count toward the 7-year limit.

Board Certified Criminal Law Specialization

As of the start of 2023, the State Bar of Arizona Board of Legal Specialization listed only 56 Criminal Law Specialists in the entire state.  Of these 56, only 39 are located in Maricopa County and are allowed to handle private cases.

DM Cantor has 3 Criminal Law Specialists, the most of any firm in Arizona.

When defending allegations, it is critical to have as many Board Certified Criminal Law Specialists on your legal team as possible.

The specialization process is so rigorous that only 23 current Criminal Law Specialists have been certified this century.

In addition, all specialists must be approved for re-certification every 5 years.

At DM Cantor, our attorneys have conducted Jury Trials on hundreds of criminal cases.

Every case defended by DM Cantor includes at least 1 Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist on the legal team who is directly handling or supervising the case’s progress.

We wouldn’t have it any other way.

Why Choose Board Certified Criminal Law Specialists?

When facing the formidable challenges of Class 1 felony charges in Arizona, the decision to rely on the expertise of Board Certified Criminal Law Specialists becomes paramount. This choice gains even more significance within the scope of the Arizona legal system, where the nuances of felony cases are meticulously defined. Particularly, when working with the highly respected professionals at DM Cantor, the assurance of having seasoned specialists by your side is unparalleled.

These specialists have amassed extensive experience, honing their skills through a rigorous certification process that underscores their proficiency in handling complex felony cases. Their proven ability to strategize successful defense tactics is a beacon of confidence when maneuvering the intricate labyrinth of Class 1 felony charges. Notably, their expertise transcends conventional legal prowess, encompassing an intricate understanding of Arizona’s distinct felony laws.

What sets Board Certified Criminal Law Specialists apart is their commitment to tailoring defense strategies to suit the unique circumstances of each case, effectively integrating the subtle nuances of Arizona’s legal landscape. This personalized approach is rooted in their comprehensive grasp of the intricacies of felony cases and their implications under Arizona Law. By partnering with these specialists, individuals facing Class 1 felony charges equip themselves with an arsenal of knowledge, experience, and insight. In the ever-evolving realm of Arizona’s felony laws, their guidance becomes an invaluable asset, ensuring a comprehensive and tailored defense strategy that maximizes the chances of a favorable outcome.

Contact Us

Contact DM Cantor and speak to a Criminal Defense Attorney. We will assist you is you are facing a felony in Arizona and help minimize your penalties.