First Degree Murder in Arizona: A.R.S. 13-1105
First degree murder charges come with the harshest penalties possible for a criminal case. According to A.R.S. 13-1105, first degree murder is committed when the offender:
- Intends for their conduct to cause death or knows that their conduct will cause death.
- Causes the death of another person, including an unborn child, with premeditation.
- Causes the death of an unborn child as a result of causing the death of another person with premeditation.
- Intends for their conduct to cause death to a law enforcement officer in the line of duty or knows that their conduct will result in such.
- Causes the death of another person while committing a specific offense, or fleeing from the offense, including:
- Sexual conduct with a minor
- Sexual assault
- Molestation of a child
- Terrorism
- Certain marijuana offenses
- Certain dangerous drug or narcotics offenses
- Drive-by shooting
- Kidnapping
- Burglary
- Arson
- Robbery
- Escape
- Child abuse
- Unlawful flight from law enforcement
An individual cannot be prosecuted for first degree murder while performing an abortion or medical treatment on a pregnant mother if the procedure was consented to but resulted in the death of the mother or the unborn child.
Penalties for First Degree Murder
First degree murder convictions are class 1 felonies.
Offenders aged 18 or older can be sentenced to the death penalty or natural life in prison through the Arizona Department of Corrections. Those sentenced to life in prison are not eligible for commutation, parole, work furlough, or any release from confinement.
Offenders under the age of 18 will be sentenced to life or natural life in the Arizona Department of Corrections. Those sentenced to natural life are not eligible for commutation, parole, work furlough, or any release from confinement. Those sentenced to life may not be released until 25 years has been completed if the murdered person was 15 years old or older, or until 35 years has been completed if the murdered person was under age 15.
RIDEOUT LAW GROUP
With offices in Lake Havasu City and Scottsdale, our firm serves the entire state of Arizona, with a particular focus on criminal defense, family law, and juvenile cases.
Our goal is for the best outcome for your criminal case, which can include:
- charges that are reduced or dropped.
- top experts reviewing your case.
- aggressive negotiations with the prosecution for plea bargains.
- fines or probation in lieu of jail time.
At Rideout Law Group, our attorneys are able to expertly examine the evidence in your case to provide a strong strategy for argument that leads to an outcome that is most favorable to you. We have experience in all types of criminal cases for both adults and juveniles, with positive outcomes both in plea negotiations as well as jury trial settings.
Call us today for a free consultation at 480-584-3328.