Felony Lawyer in Tucson
Arrested for a Felony? Get Proven Legal Help Today
Facing a felony charge in Tucson can be an overwhelming experience. Arizona categorizes felonies into six classes, each with severe penalties that may include substantial fines, imprisonment, or both. Our team at Law Offices of Patrick Alan Moran, LLC understands the intricacies of Arizona's legal system, enabling us to develop strategic defenses tailored to your specific situation.
Tucson’s courts, such as the Pima County Superior Court, handle felony cases with significant local procedures that can impact your case. Engaging a knowledgeable felony attorney in Tucson is crucial for achieving a favorable outcome.
It is important to understand that a felony in Arizona not only impacts the accused's immediate circumstances but also has long-lasting effects on employment opportunities, housing, and civil rights. This underscores the necessity for adept legal representation.
When everything is on the line, trust a felony lawyer in Tucson who wins 9 out of 10 cases. With free consultations and budget-friendly options, help is just a call away. Dial (520) 402-3226 or reach out online to get started.
Understanding Felony Charges in Arizona
In Arizona, felonies are the most severe class of criminal offenses, distinguished from misdemeanors by the potential for a sentence to a term of imprisonment in the custody of the State Department of Corrections (state prison).
Arizona law classifies felonies into six different classes, from Class 1 (most severe) to Class 6 (least severe). The lower the class number, the more serious the felony and the harsher the potential penalty.
As your felony lawyer in Tucson, we will ensure you have a clear and comprehensive understanding of the precise charges leveled against you and their potential ramifications under Arizona law.
Shepherding You Through the Criminal Justice System Your Advocate, Every Step of the Way
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Tailored Defense
We design personalized legal strategies to fit your unique case, ensuring the best path forward for your situation.
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Client-Centered Approach
Compassionate and approachable, we guide you through the process with clear communication and understanding.
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Focused Representation
From DUI and traffic violations to college disciplinary cases, we leverage our deep understanding of the law.
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Unique Insight
With experience as a former judge, Patrick Alan Moran offers unparalleled perspective and strategic advantage.
Penalties for Felony Convictions in Arizona
Arizona imposes incredibly severe penalties for felony convictions, with lengthy state prison sentences and substantial fines. The presumptive (standard) prison sentences for felonies start at one year of incarceration and go up to life imprisonment. These sentences are significantly enhanced for repeat offenders or "dangerous" felonies.
Here's an overview of potential penalties based on felony class (for first-time, non-dangerous offenders, unless noted otherwise):
- Class 1 Felonies (e.g., Murder):
- Prison: 10 to 25 years up to life imprisonment, or even the death penalty (for First-Degree Murder). Second-Degree Murder carries a presumptive 10-16 years.
- Fines: Up to $150,000.
- Class 2 Felonies (e.g., Manslaughter, Sexual Assault, Armed Robbery):
- Prison: Presumptive 5 years; Mitigated 3 years; Aggravated 12.5 years.
- Fines: Up to $150,000.
- Class 3 Felonies (e.g., Aggravated Assault, Kidnapping, Burglary 1st Degree):
- Prison: Presumptive 3.5 years; Mitigated 2 years; Aggravated 8.75 years.
- Fines: Up to $150,000.
- Class 4 Felonies (e.g., Aggravated DUI, Robbery, Forgery):
- Prison: Presumptive 2.5 years; Mitigated 1 year; Aggravated 3.75 years.
- Fines: Up to $150,000.
- Class 5 Felonies (e.g., Some Theft, Criminal Damage):
- Prison: Presumptive 1.5 years; Mitigated 0.5 years (6 months); Aggravated 2.5 years.
- Fines: Up to $150,000.
- Class 6 Felonies (e.g., Some Theft, Criminal Trespass 1st Degree):
- Prison: Presumptive 1 year; Mitigated 0.33 years (4 months); Aggravated 2 years.
- Fines: Up to $150,000.
Collateral Consequences of a Felony Conviction in Arizona
A felony conviction in Arizona extends far beyond direct legal penalties, imposing a range of devastating and often permanent collateral consequences on every facet of your life. This includes a permanent criminal record that, even if "set aside" for some offenses, still requires disclosure and severely limits future employment opportunities and the ability to obtain or maintain professional licenses. You'll also face the loss of civil rights, such as voting and firearm possession, and significant housing difficulties due to background checks by landlords.
Furthermore, a felony conviction can lead to educational limitations, impacting eligibility for student aid and university admissions. It carries a profound and enduring social stigma, affecting personal relationships and community standing, and can result in travel restrictions to many foreign countries. For non-citizens, a felony conviction can trigger severe immigration penalties, including deportation. Finally, substantial fines and mandatory restitution to victims are common, underscoring the overwhelming and pervasive nature of these impacts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do if I'm Charged with a Felony in Tucson?
If you're charged with a felony in Tucson, it's essential to act quickly and avoid making any statements to law enforcement until you've consulted with a qualified felony attorney. Early legal intervention can prevent unintentional self-incrimination and help preserve your rights. At Law Offices of Patrick Alan Moran, LLC, we offer immediate consultations to review your case, assess available defenses, and start building a legal strategy tailored to your situation. Gathering relevant evidence, documenting events surrounding the charge, and identifying potential witnesses can also significantly support your defense moving forward.
How Can a Felony Attorney in Tucson Help with My Case?
A knowledgeable felony lawyer in Tucson can guide you through every stage of the criminal justice process. Our team works to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and negotiate for reduced charges or lighter sentencing where appropriate. With our deep understanding of local court procedures and strong relationships with Tucson judges and prosecutors, we aim to craft a defense that anticipates every legal angle. In complex cases, we also work with investigators, forensic experts, and other professionals to strengthen the factual foundation of your defense.
