Phoenix Misdemeanor Lawyer
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Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney for Misdemeanor Charges in Phoenix, AZ
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If you or someone you love is facing misdemeanor charges in Phoenix or throughout Maricopa County and the surrounding areas, our experienced attorneys at Belén Law Firm can help. Our team provides accused individuals in Arizona with aggressive defense and legal representation for a variety of misdemeanor charges.
With years of experience navigating Arizona’s criminal justice system, we understand the nuances of local laws and court procedures. When you hire a skilled Phoenix criminal defense lawyer from the Belén Law Firm, you equip yourself with a dedicated legal advocate that will fight for your rights from start to finish.
Call (602) 715-0908 or reach out online to schedule a free initial case evaluation with a Phoenix criminal defense attorney on our team today!
What is a Misdemeanor in Arizona?
A misdemeanor is a criminal offense that is less severe than a felony but could still result in various legal consequences. These crimes are typically punishable by fines, probation, community service, and/or up to one year in county jail and are handled by limited-jurisdiction courts.
What is a Petty Offense in Arizona?
A petty offense is a minor criminal infraction that is less severe than other misdemeanors and is not punishable by jail time. These offenses typically include minor offenses like littering, jaywalking, and speeding slightly above the speed limit. The maximum punishment for a petty offense in Arizona is a $300 fine.
Can You Be Arrested for a Misdemeanor?
Yes, you can be arrested for misdemeanor criminal charges in Arizona. Law enforcement officers have the authority to arrest you if you are suspected of committing misdemeanor offenses, especially if the offense occurs in their presence or if there is a warrant for your arrest.
After your arrest, you may be taken into custody and booked at a local police station. Depending on the circumstances and the severity of the offense, you may be released on bail. You’ll then be required to appear in court for your arraignment and other proceedings.
Can a Misdemeanor Turn into a Felony?
In Arizona, a crime that is typically a misdemeanor can potentially lead to a much more serious felony charge. This is through a process called enhancement, where the severity of the offense increases due to factors such as prior convictions, the seriousness of the crime, or specific aggravating factors involved in the incident.
For example, an act of simple assault would normally result in a misdemeanor charge. However, it can result in a felony charge if the assault was committed against a minor or was committed against someone in violation of a protective order.
When certain factors are present, crimes that are generally considered misdemeanors can become felonies, often resulting in much more severe penalties. If you have been charged with an enhanced criminal offense, a Phoenix criminal defense lawyer can help you fight these charges and keep your criminal record clean.
Class 1 Misdemeanors
Arizona criminal law divides its misdemeanor offenses into three classes, which indicate the severity of the misdemeanor crime. Below is the definition of a Class 1 misdemeanor, examples of Class 1 misdemeanor offenses, and the punishments for these misdemeanor crimes.
What is a Class 1 Misdemeanor in AZ?
In Arizona, a Class 1 misdemeanor is the most serious type of misdemeanor offense, and is only one class below a felony crime.
Examples of Class 1 Misdemeanors
Examples of Class 1 misdemeanor criminal cases in Arizona include:
- Criminal damage (between $250 and $1,000)
- Disorderly conduct
- Domestic violence assault
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Interfering with judicial proceedings
- Prostitution and solicitation of prostitution
- Public sexual indecency
- Resisting arrest
- Shoplifting (less than $1,000)
- Simple assault
- Theft (less than $1,000)
- Trespassing in the first degree
It’s important to note that, under certain circumstances, these crimes can also be charged as either felonies or other, less-severe misdemeanors. A criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the severity of your charges based on the facts of your case.
Arizona Class 1 Misdemeanor Sentence
The punishments for misdemeanor crimes in Arizona are defined in ARS § 13-707 and ARS § 13-802. In Arizona, a Class 1 misdemeanor could result in a maximum sentence of 6 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, or both. Certain crimes like DUI offenses may also result in additional penalties, such as license suspension or the installment of an interlock ignition device.
Class 2 Misdemeanors
The second most severe misdemeanor charges in Arizona are Class 2 misdemeanors. Below are some examples of these crimes as well as the potential sentences for these crimes.
What is a Class 2 Misdemeanor in Arizona?
A Class 2 misdemeanor in Arizona is less severe than a Class 1 misdemeanor but is still not the least severe misdemeanor offense. While not as severe as a Class 1 misdemeanor or any other felony offense, a Class 2 misdemeanor can still result in harsh penalties.
Class 2 Misdemeanor Arizona Examples
Some common Class 2 misdemeanor crime examples in Arizona include:
- Certain acts of assault
- Certain acts of littering
- Criminal damage (less than $250)
- Failure to appear in court in the second degree
- Negligent burning of wildlands
- Public nuisance
- Refusing to provide legal name when arrested
- Tresspassing in the second degree
- Violation of a fire ban
Arizona Class 2 Misdemeanor Sentence
Class 2 misdemeanors in Arizona are punishable by up to 4 months in jail, up to $750 in fines, or both.
Class 3 Misdemeanors
Below are some examples of Class 3 misdemeanors in Arizona and the sentences you may face if convicted. If you have been accused of a Class 3 misdemeanor in AZ, an experienced attorney at our firm can help defend you against these charges and keep your record clear.
What is a Class 3 Misdemeanor in Arizona?
Class 3 misdemeanors are the lowest level of misdemeanor crimes in Arizona. Though they are the third and least severe misdemeanor crime someone can commit (other than petty offenses), these crimes can still result in jail time and fines.
Examples of Class 3 Misdemeanors
Some examples of Class 3 misdemeanor offenses in Arizona include:
- Certain acts of loitering
- Driving through protected habitats
- Dumping trash on highways or at an airport
- Excessive speeding
- Fraudulent advertising
- Removing the serial number from a vehicle
- Trespassing in the third degree
Arizona Class 3 Misdemeanor Sentence
In Arizona, a Class 3 misdemeanor criminal charge can be punishable by up to 1 month in jail, up to $500 in fines, or both.
Can You Fight a Misdemeanor?
While a misdemeanor conviction may seem minor to some, any criminal conviction can have serious consequences on your life. Fortunately, you are able to fight these charges to protect yourself from the associated penalties and prevent the charge from appearing on your permanent criminal record. The best way to do this is to seek the legal assistance of a seasoned criminal defense attorney with a reputation for success in your area.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Misdemeanor?
Though it is not legally required, if you are facing a misdemeanor charge and wish to avoid or mitigate the potential penalties, it is highly advised that you find a criminal lawyer who can effectively defend you, your future, and your freedom. A skilled criminal defense team will be able to evaluate your situation and craft the best defense against the state’s claims. This could result in a favorable plea deal, reduced sentence, or having your charges dropped altogether.
Why Choose Belén As Your Criminal Defense Lawyer in Arizona
When facing misdemeanor charges in Phoenix, AZ, choosing Belén Law Firm for your defense ensures you receive dedicated legal representation focused on achieving the best possible outcome for your case, no matter what. We have experience handling a variety misdemeanor cases, as well as felony cases, and have a long history of securing not-guilty verdicts for our clients.
With years of experience practicing criminal law in the state of Arizona and a proven track record of successful case outcomes, you can rest easy knowing that your criminal case is in capable hands. If you need help navigating the Arizona legal system, contact Belén Law Firm today to get started.
For a Free Consultation, Call the Phoenix Misdemeanor Defense Attorneys at Belén Law Firm Today
If you’re facing misdemeanor charges in Phoenix or any of the surrounding Central AZ areas, the experienced criminal attorneys at Belén Law Firm are here to help. Our legal team understands the stress and uncertainty that comes with criminal charges of any kind, from minor infractions to serious felonies, and we are dedicated to providing you with skilled legal representation every step of the way.
Led by Attorney Belén Olmedo Guerra, our team will thoroughly review the details of your situation, explain your legal options, and develop a strategic defense personalized to your situation. Whether it’s misdemeanor drug crimes like simple drug possession or violent crimes like felony aggravated assault, trust Belén to provide you with the criminal defense you need to succeed in your case.
We proudly serve the residents of Phoenix and all of Maricopa County as well as those in the surrounding areas, including Apache County, Coconino County, Navajo County, Gila County, and beyond. Call our law office at (602) 715-0908 or contact us via our online contact form to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Arizona criminal attorney on our team today.
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