What is a Class 6 Felony in Arizona?
What is a Class 6 Felony in Arizona?: A Comprehensive Guide by Chelle Law
A Class 6 Felony in Arizona represents the least severe category of felonies but still carries significant consequences. Examples of Class 6 Felonies include theft of property valued between $1,000 and $2,000, aggravated DUI, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Convictions can result in fines, probation, and a prison sentence in the Arizona Department of Corrections, typically ranging from 4 months to 5.75 years. Notably, a Class 6 Felony is distinct in that a prosecutor may exercise discretion to charge it as a misdemeanor instead, depending on the circumstances of the case and the defendant’s criminal history. Understanding the nature of a Class 6 Felony in Arizona is crucial for promoting adherence to state laws and fostering a secure community.
Chelle Law, a leading criminal defense law firm in Scottsdale, Arizona, is committed to providing valuable information to the community. In this blog post, we will explore the question: What is a Class 6 Felony in Arizona? We’ll include the types of offenses that fall under this category, potential penalties, and options for legal representation.
Understanding Class 6 Felonies in Arizona
In Arizona, felonies are classified into six different categories, with Class 1 being the most serious and Class 6 being the least serious. However, it’s important to note that a Class 6 felony is still a serious criminal offense that can result in severe consequences. Examples of Class 6 felonies in Arizona include:
- Aggravated DUI with a suspended, revoked, or restricted driver’s license
- Theft of property valued between $1,000 and $2,000
- Possession of certain drugs for personal use
For a complete list of Class 6 felonies in Arizona, consult the Arizona Revised Statutes.
Potential Penalties for a Class 6 Felony Conviction
If you are convicted of a Class 6 felony in Arizona, you may face the following penalties:
- Imprisonment: Depending on your criminal history and the specifics of your case, a Class 6 felony conviction can result in a prison sentence ranging from 0.33 to 2 years.
- Fines: You may be required to pay fines and fees associated with your conviction, up to a maximum of $150,000.
- Probation: In some cases, you may be sentenced to probation instead of imprisonment, which will require you to adhere to specific conditions set by the court.
It’s also important to note that a Class 6 felony conviction can have long-lasting effects on your personal and professional life, including difficulty finding employment, obtaining housing, and loss of certain rights.
“Class 6 Open” Felonies and Potential Reduction to a Misdemeanor
In some cases, a Class 6 felony may be designated as a “Class 6 open” felony. This means that the judge has the discretion to reduce the charge to a Class 1 misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances of the case and the defendant’s criminal history. If the charge is reduced to a misdemeanor, the potential penalties will be significantly less severe.
For more information about the process of reducing a Class 6 felony to a misdemeanor, consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney or visit the Arizona Courts website.
Legal Representation for Class 6 Felonies with Chelle Law
If you are facing a Class 6 felony charge in Arizona, it’s crucial to have skilled legal representation on your side. Facing criminal charges in Scottsdale can be daunting, but Chelle Law offers the expert representation you need to defend your case.
