Examples and Penalties
If you’re facing a Class 3 felony charge in Arizona, the stakes are serious. These crimes fall in the mid-range of felony classifications under Arizona law—less severe than Class 1 or 2 felonies, but more serious than Class 4 through 6. At Rideout Law Group, we help clients in Scottsdale, Lake Havasu, and throughout Arizona navigate the criminal justice system with clarity and strength.
What Is a Class 3 Felony in Arizona?
Arizona classifies crimes into six felony categories—Class 1 being the most severe, and Class 6 the least. A Class 3 felony can carry significant prison time, fines, and long-term consequences for your rights and future. These offenses are governed by Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) §13-701 and §13-702.
Common Class 3 Felony Examples
Some of the most commonly charged Class 3 felonies in Arizona include:
- Aggravated Assault (A.R.S. §13-1204) – Causing serious injury or using a deadly weapon during an assault.
- Burglary in the Second Degree (A.R.S. §13-1507) – Entering a residential structure with intent to commit a theft or felony.
- Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm (A.R.S. §13-3107) – Firing a weapon within city limits under reckless conditions.
- Possession of Dangerous Drugs for Sale (A.R.S. §13-3407) – Holding large quantities of methamphetamine, LSD, or other dangerous drugs with intent to distribute.
- Sexual Conduct with a Minor (15-17 years old) (A.R.S. §13-1405) – Engaging in sexual activity with a minor who is not more than two years younger than the accused.
- Theft of Property or Services Valued Between $4,000 and $25,000 (A.R.S. §13-1802)
Penalties for Class 3 Felonies in Arizona
Penalties for Class 3 felonies vary depending on factors such as whether the offense was a dangerous crime, whether the defendant has prior felony convictions, and whether the case involves aggravating or mitigating circumstances.
First-Time Offenders (Non-Dangerous Offenses)
For individuals with no prior felony convictions:
- Minimum Sentence: 2 years
- Presumptive Sentence: 3.5 years
- Maximum Sentence: 7 years
Repeat Offenders
If you have one prior felony conviction:
- Minimum: 3.25 years
- Presumptive: 6.5 years
- Maximum: 16.25 years
With two or more prior felony convictions, sentencing becomes even more severe.
Dangerous Offenses
If the offense involved a dangerous weapon or caused serious physical injury, Arizona’s dangerous offender laws apply:
- Minimum Sentence: 5 years
- Maximum Sentence: 15 years
- No eligibility for probation, parole, or early release
In some cases, these penalties can be stacked—especially when multiple charges or victims are involved.
Long-Term Consequences of a Class 3 Felony
Beyond prison time and fines, a felony conviction can impact your:
- Employment opportunities
- Gun ownership rights
- Voting rights
- Ability to obtain housing or loans
That’s why it’s crucial to fight the charge or negotiate a reduced classification whenever possible.
How Rideout Law Group Can Help
Whether you’re charged in Scottsdale, Lake Havasu, or anywhere in Arizona, our experienced defense attorneys at Rideout Law Group will examine every angle of your case. We explore all legal defenses—such as self-defense, mistaken identity, or unlawful search and seizure—to help reduce or dismiss the charges.
We also fight for mitigated sentences and alternative resolutions like probation or diversion programs whenever possible.
📞 Call us at (928) 854-8181 or (480) 584-3328
📍 Offices in Lake Havasu City and Scottsdale
✉️ Contact us online for a free consultation