Penalties and Real-Life Examples
In Arizona, felonies are categorized into six classes, with Class 1 felonies being the most serious. If you’re facing a Class 1 felony charge—or if a loved one is—it’s critical to understand what’s at stake and why having an experienced Arizona criminal defense attorney matter.
What Is a Class 1 Felony in Arizona?
A Class 1 felony includes only the most severe crimes under Arizona law. These offenses typically involve the intentional or premeditated taking of life and are prosecuted with the utmost intensity.
Examples of Class 1 Felonies
Arizona law designates just two crimes as Class 1 felonies:
- First-Degree Murder
– The intentional and premeditated killing of another person. - Second-Degree Murder
– A non-premeditated killing resulting from an act intended to cause serious harm or done with reckless disregard for human life.
Penalties for Class 1 Felonies in Arizona
The penalties for Class 1 felonies are life-altering. Here’s what you need to know:
First-Degree Murder Penalties:
- Life imprisonment with no possibility of parole
- Death penalty in certain cases
- No eligibility for probation, pardon, or release
Second-Degree Murder Penalties:
- 10 to 25 years in prison, depending on prior convictions and case circumstances
- Aggravating factors (such as use of a deadly weapon or crimes against vulnerable victims) can increase the sentence
Can Class 1 Felonies Be Expunged in Arizona?
Unfortunately, Class 1 felony convictions cannot be expunged or sealed under ARS §13-911. These charges remain on your criminal record permanently, further emphasizing the need for strong legal defense from the outset.
Why You Need an Arizona Criminal Defense Attorney
If you or someone you care about is under investigation or charged with a Class 1 felony, contact a qualified Arizona criminal defense lawyer immediately. The stakes are as high as they get—your life and freedom depend on the outcome.
At Rideout Law Group, our attorneys have extensive experience defending clients in murder and other violent crime cases throughout Scottsdale, Lake Havasu City, and across Maricopa and Mohave Counties.
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