Misdemeanor Offenses In Arizona

Even though a misdemeanor crime is considered a lesser crime in comparison to a felony, it is still a serious matter. In Arizona, a misdemeanor offense can carry significant weight. An individual who is accused and charged with a misdemeanor can face jail time, substantial fees, a criminal record, driver’s license suspension, community service, probation, and the loss of educational or career opportunities. And so, no matter how insignificant a misdemeanor charge may seem, it can result in dire implications. If you have been charged with a misdemeanor offense, it is advised to seek the legal assistance of a skilled Phoenix, Arizona criminal defense attorney.

In Arizona, the law provides stringent penalties for misdemeanor charges, and the more misdemeanor convictions on record, the more likely it can become a felony. As previously mentioned, some misdemeanors crimes can elevate to the status of a felony if the matter is not addressed and mitigated. Again, multiple misdemeanor convictions can result in a felony.

Misdemeanor offenses in Arizona include:

• Domestic Violence
• Shoplifting
• DUI
• Simple Assault
• Vandalism
• Theft

Depending on the circumstances surrounding a misdemeanor offense, the criminal charge will be classified as either a petty misdemeanor, Class 3 misdemeanor, Class 2 misdemeanor, or Class 1 misdemeanor.

The misdemeanor classes consist of the following:

• Petty Misdemeanor: Aside from a Class 3 misdemeanor, a petty misdemeanor is the lowest type of offense. It results in a fine not to exceed $300 and no jail time.
• Class 3 Misdemeanor: A Class 3 misdemeanor includes a penalty of a maximum fine of up to $500 and a maximum of 30 days in jail.
• Class 2 Misdemeanor: A Class 2 carries a punishment of a maximum fine of up to $750 plus a maximum of four months in jail.
• Class 1 Misdemeanor: A Class 1 misdemeanor is the most serious of misdemeanor classes. It is punishable by a fine of up to $2,500 and a maximum of six months in jail.

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor offense, it is sensible to seek the counsel of a criminal defense attorney in Phoenix, Arizona.