Understand what you’re facing. This Q&A guide breaks down Arizona’s criminal penalties by charge type - clearly and directly.

 

What are the different types of criminal charges in Arizona?

Arizona classifies criminal offenses into three main categories:

• Felonies – The most serious offenses, punishable by prison time.
• Misdemeanors – Less severe crimes, usually punished by jail time of less than a year.
• Petty Offenses – Minor infractions, typically penalized with a fine only.

 

What’s the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Arizona?

• Felonies result in state prison time and have long-term consequences like loss of voting rights, inability to own firearms, and difficulty finding housing or employment.
• Misdemeanors are handled in local courts and typically result in fines, probation, or time in county jail for less than a year.

What does it mean if a crime is classified as “dangerous”?

A crime is considered dangerous in Arizona if it involves:

• Use of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument
• Intentional or reckless serious physical injury

If a felony is labeled dangerous:

• Probation is not allowed
• Prison time becomes mandatory
• Sentencing ranges increase significantly

What is a “Class 6 Undesignated Felony” in Arizona?

A Class 6 undesignated felony is a unique charge that may later be treated as a misdemeanor if the defendant:

• Successfully completes probation
• Pays all restitution
• Meets all other court conditions

This is often offered in plea deals for first-time offenders.

What happens if I have prior felony convictions?

Arizona applies repetitive offender sentencing. Prior convictions can:

• Raise the sentencing range dramatically
• Eliminate probation eligibility
• Require mandatory minimum sentences

Example: A second Class 3 felony conviction may result in 7–15 years, instead of 2–8.75 years.

Can I go to jail for a petty offense?

No. Petty offenses in Arizona are non-criminal violations. They cannot result in jail time. They only carry fines and often don’t appear on a criminal record.

Are juveniles charged the same way as adults?

Usually not. However, if a juvenile aged 15+ is charged with certain violent felonies (e.g., murder, armed robbery), they may be:

• Tried as adults
• Sentenced under adult guidelines

Can I avoid jail for a felony in Arizona?

In some cases, yes. Probation, diversion programs, or plea deals may apply. Judges consider:

• First-time vs. repeat offense
• Whether the crime was non-violent
• Willingness to undergo treatment, education, or restitution

What are the long-term consequences of a felony conviction?

Felony convictions may result in:

• Permanent criminal record
• Loss of civil rights (voting, firearm ownership)
• Ineligibility for certain jobs, licenses, housing
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens

Can a criminal conviction be expunged or set aside in Arizona?

Arizona allows set-asides (not true expungements) for certain convictions. This:

• Updates the record to show the conviction was vacated
• Improves job and housing opportunities
• Does not erase the conviction completely

Some convictions can be sealed, which allows you to state in most circumstances that you have never been arrested, charged, or convicted of the offense. 

 

What should I do if I’m charged with a crime in Arizona?

 

1. Do not speak to police without a lawyer
2. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately
3. Document everything
4. Do not discuss your case on social media
5. Request a free consultation with Doran Justice