Violent Crimes in Arizona

In the state of Arizona, violent crimes have some of the harshest penalties. They are taken very seriously by the court system, so that’s why it’s important you have an experienced, knowledgeable attorney if you are accused of a violent crime. You should search for an Arizona criminal defense lawyer who has a background in the type of crime that you are being accused of in order to ensure you get the best possible defense.

Here are some details on violent crimes that you might be accused of in the state of Arizona:

Assault & Battery – This includes assault, aggravated assault, battery, felony battery, and aggravated battery. Each offense is defined slightly differently and carries different penalties. The main distinction between the many types of battery is the extent of the damage that was inflicted on the victim, which can range from simply threatening someone to causing permanent disability or disfigurement. If you are being charged with any of these violent offenses, you should hire an Arizona criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to start working on your defense.

Murder – This includes first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and manslaughter. First-degree murder is when the murder was premeditated or occurs while engaged in another felony. It is the most serious crime, and it is considered a Capital Offense. If you are convicted, you will either be sentenced to death, life in prison without the possibility of parole, or life in prison with parole eligibility after 25 years have been served.

Second-degree murder occurs when the perpetrator shows no regard for human life. However, the murder cannot have been premeditated. You can also be charged with second-degree murder even if it was the result of an accident as long as you acted with certain levels of extreme “recklessness.” For example, if you had a DUI with a very high blood alcohol level and it resulted in someone’s death, it is possible that you could be charged with second-degree murder. If convicted, you face a mandatory prison sentence of 10 years with a maximum sentence of 22 years.

You will be charged with manslaughter if the State believes that you caused the death of another person by acting recklessly. Under Arizona law, a reckless act is considered one where a person knowingly disregards a serious risk. Many manslaughter cases are brought about by a DUI charge. Other common types of cases include “heat of the moment” killing in which the accused was provoked and lost control. If convicted, you will face a prison sentence between 7 and 21 years.

Sexual Battery – This is defined as sexual contact that involves an un-consenting party. It is more commonly known as Rape. This can be done through force, violence, or threats, and a person can also be unable to consent because of mental or physical incapacity, which includes being intoxicated. Certain professions, such as teachers and doctors, have a higher risk of being falsely accused of this crime. If convicted, it can lead to very severe penalties that affect the rest of your life, so it’s crucial that you get an experienced Arizona criminal defense lawyer on your side.

Arson – This is usually a felony. The severity of the punishment will depend on the value of the property damaged and whether anyone was in the property at the time of the fire or explosion. In some cases, it is possible to get the crime reduced to a misdemeanor charge of reckless burning, which occurs when the defendant recklessly creates an explosion or fire which causes damage.

Other Violent Crimes

Of course, these are just some of the violent offenses you can be accused of in the state of Arizona. Some of the other violent crimes include armed robbery, carjacking, bank robbery, domestic assault, domestic abuse, domestic violence, weapon offenses, assault weapons, sales and discharge, hate crime offenses, stalking, and terrorist threats.

Get the Help of an Arizona Violent Crimes Attorney

If you find yourself accused of a violent crime, it is in your best interest to hire an Arizona criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Even if you are just being questioned, are a suspect, or considered a “person of interest,” it is advisable to get legal counsel. The sooner you get help, the better your chances of avoiding charges or beating the case if it does eventually go to court.