Phoenix Violent Crimes Defense Lawyer

Violent Crimes in Arizona: What You Need to Know

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What Is Considered a Violent Crime in Arizona?

In Arizona, a “violent crime” generally means an offense involving actual, attempted, or threatened physical harm to another person. These cases often carry mandatory prison sentences, especially if classified as “dangerous” under A.R.S. § 13-105(13).

Violent crimes can range from misdemeanor assaults to Class 1 felony homicide charges. The difference often comes down to the mental state of the accused, the level of injury, and whether weapons were involved.

What Are the Main Types of Violent Crimes?

1. Homicide Offenses

• First-Degree Murder – Intentional, premeditated killing, or felony murder under A.R.S. § 13-1105.
• Second-Degree Murder – Intentional killing without premeditation or with extreme disregard for human life (A.R.S. § 13-1104).
• Manslaughter – Includes heat-of-passion killings and reckless disregard resulting in death (A.R.S. § 13-1103).
• Negligent Homicide – Death caused by criminal negligence (A.R.S. § 13-1102).

Case Insight: In State v. Walton (1992), the Arizona Supreme Court clarified that premeditation can form in seconds, making timing arguments crucial in defending first-degree charges.

2. Assault and Aggravated Assault

• Simple Assault – Physical injury, threats of harm, or offensive touching (A.R.S. § 13-1203).
• Aggravated Assault – Serious injury, use of a weapon, or assault on protected individuals (A.R.S. § 13-1204).

Hypothetical: You shove someone in a bar fight (simple assault). If they fall, hit their head, and sustain a serious brain injury, the same incident could become aggravated assault — a Class 3 felony with potential prison time.

3. Arson and Related Offenses

• Reckless Burning – Causing a fire that damages property without intent (A.R.S. § 13-1702).
• Arson of a Structure – Knowingly damaging a building or vehicle with fire (A.R.S. § 13-1703).
• Arson of an Occupied Structure – Highly serious because it endangers life (A.R.S. § 13-1704).

4. Kidnapping and Unlawful Imprisonment

• Kidnapping – Restraining a person for ransom, harm, or to commit another felony (A.R.S. § 13-1304).
• Unlawful Imprisonment – Holding someone without consent but without the elements of kidnapping (A.R.S. § 13-1303).

5. Domestic Violence Offenses

Any crime against a qualifying relationship under A.R.S. § 13-3601 — can apply to assault, criminal damage, threats, and more.

What Are the Penalties for Violent Crimes in Arizona?

• Class 1 Felony – Life in prison or death penalty (for first-degree murder).
• Class 2 Felony – Typically 5–10 years for a first offense.
• Class 3 Felony – 3.5–8.75 years for a first offense.
• Dangerous designations remove probation eligibility.

How Does Arizona Justice Law Group Defend Violent Crime Cases?

1. Challenging the Evidence

• Reviewing police body cam for unlawful searches or Miranda violations.
• Questioning eyewitness identification reliability.

2. Using Expert Witnesses

• Forensic experts to challenge ballistics, fingerprints, or DNA.
• Medical experts to dispute injury severity claims.

3. Leveraging Lesser-Included Offenses

• Negotiating charges down from aggravated assault to simple assault.
• Reframing homicide as manslaughter based on provocation.

Can Self-Defense Apply in My Case?

Yes — Arizona follows a “stand your ground” principle (A.R.S. §§ 13-404, 13-405), meaning you do not have to retreat before defending yourself, provided your response is reasonable and proportionate.

What If the Case Involves a Child Victim?

Under A.R.S. § 13-705, “dangerous crimes against children” carry some of the harshest mandatory sentences in the U.S. — often decades without early release.

Do Violent Crime Cases Ever Go Federal?

Yes — crimes on federal property, crossing state lines, or involving federal officers can be prosecuted under federal law, often with harsher sentencing guidelines.

Why Choose Zalman Sapad and Arizona Justice Law Group?

• Proven Track Record in violent crime defense, from serious felony trials to complex appellate work.
• In-depth Arizona Court Knowledge — understanding how different Maricopa County judges handle sentencing and plea offers.
• Aggressive Pre-Trial Strategy — pushing for dismissals, evidence suppression, or charge reductions before trial.

If you’re facing violent crime charges, early legal intervention can make the difference between years in prison and a reduced outcome.

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