Misdemeanor vs. Felony

What’s the Difference in Arizona?

When facing criminal charges in Arizona, understanding the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony can be crucial to protecting your rights. The legal consequences, court procedures, and long-term impact on your record vary significantly between these two categories of crimes. This guide breaks down the Arizona misdemeanor felony difference to help you better understand what’s at stake and how to respond.

What Is a Misdemeanor in Arizona?

A misdemeanor is considered a lower-level criminal offense in Arizona but still carries serious legal consequences. Common examples include:

• First-time DUI
• Simple assault (non-aggravated)
• Petty theft or shoplifting under a certain value

Arizona classifies misdemeanors into three categories:

• Class 1: Up to 6 months in jail and $2,500 in fines (e.g., DUI, domestic violence)
• Class 2: Up to 4 months in jail and $750 in fines
• Class 3: Up to 30 days in jail and $500 in fines

While misdemeanors are less severe than felonies, they can still impact your employment, housing opportunities, and driving privileges. In many cases, a strong legal defense can lead to reduced charges, diversion programs, or dismissal. Learn more about our DUI Defense services here.

What Is a Felony in Arizona?

A felony is a more serious criminal charge with harsher penalties. These offenses are prosecuted in Arizona Superior Court and can result in long-term imprisonment, loss of civil rights (like voting and owning firearms), and a permanent criminal record.

Arizona classifies felonies into six classes:

• Class 1: The most severe (e.g., first-degree murder)
• Class 2–3: Serious crimes like armed robbery, aggravated assault, or drug trafficking
• Class 4–6: Lesser felonies like theft over $1,000 or certain drug possession charges

Punishments range from probation to life in prison, depending on the class, prior offenses, and aggravating factors. If you’ve been charged with a felony, it’s essential to have experienced criminal defense attorneys—like those at Rideout Law Group—who understand the local courts and know how to build a strong defense. Explore our Assault and Violent Crimes page for more insight into these charges.

Key Differences Between Misdemeanors and Felonies

Understanding the criminal charges explained in your case can help you take appropriate legal action early and avoid the long-term consequences of a conviction.

Wobblers: Crimes That Can Be Charged as Either

Some Arizona offenses, such as theft, domestic violence, or certain drug possession cases, are considered “wobblers.” This means they can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the specifics of the case, such as prior history, level of harm, or use of weapons.

Having experienced legal counsel can be the difference between walking away with a misdemeanor instead of a felony. Visit our Theft Defense page to see how we fight to reduce or dismiss charges.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony in Arizona, the consequences are real. At Rideout Law Group, we handle everything from first-time DUIs in Scottsdale to felony theft charges in Lake Havasu. Our attorneys have decades of experience and have tried hundreds of cases across Maricopa and Mohave counties.

We provide:

• Aggressive defense strategies
• Local court knowledge
• Same-day consultations
• Offices in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu City

📍 Rideout Law Group – Scottsdale Office
11111 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 225
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
📞 Call: (480) 584-3328 or toll-free at (833) 854-8181
📧 Contact Us Online: rideoutlaw.com/contact

This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal guidance specific to your situation, please contact a licensed attorney at Rideout Law Group.