What is a Class 2 Felony in Arizona?
In the state of Arizona, a felony is a serious crime that can result in imprisonment for more than one year. There are six classes of felonies in Arizona, with Class 2 felonies being one of the most severe. In this article, we will delve into the definition of a Class 2 felony, the penalties associated with it, and the types of crimes that fall under this category.
Definition of a Class 2 Felony
A Class 2 felony is a serious offense that is punishable by a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of 12.5 years in prison. This class of felony is considered to be more severe than a Class 3 felony, but less severe than a Class 1 felony. Class 2 felonies are typically committed with a high degree of recklessness or malice, and can cause significant harm to individuals or society.
Types of Crimes that are Considered Class 2 Felonies
Some examples of crimes that are considered Class 2 felonies in Arizona include:
• Aggravated assault: This crime involves intentionally causing serious physical injury to another person, or attempting to cause such injury with a deadly weapon or instrument.
• Robbery: This crime involves taking property from another person using force or threat of force.
• Sexual exploitation of a minor: This crime involves exploiting a minor for sexual purposes, such as producing child pornography or engaging in sexual acts with a minor.
• Theft: This crime involves taking property from another person with the intent to permanently deprive them of it, and is considered a Class 2 felony if the property is valued at $100,000 or more.
Penalties for Class 2 Felonies
The penalties for a Class 2 felony in Arizona are as follows:
| Penalty | Description |
|---|---|
| Minimum sentence | 3 years in prison |
| Maximum sentence | 12.5 years in prison |
| Fine | Up to $150,000 |
| Probation | Up to 5 years |
| Community supervision | Up to 5 years |
Additional Consequences of a Class 2 Felony Conviction
In addition to the penalties listed above, a conviction for a Class 2 felony can also result in:
• Loss of civil rights: Convicted felons may lose their right to vote, serve on a jury, or hold public office.
• Loss of professional licenses: Certain professions, such as law, medicine, or teaching, may require a background check, and a felony conviction can result in the loss of a professional license.
• Difficulty finding employment: Many employers conduct background checks, and a felony conviction can make it difficult to find employment.
• Difficulty finding housing: Some landlords may refuse to rent to individuals with a felony conviction.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a Class 2 felony in Arizona is a serious offense that can result in significant penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and loss of civil rights. It is essential to understand the definition, types of crimes, and penalties associated with Class 2 felonies to avoid committing such a serious offense. If you have been charged with a Class 2 felony, it is crucial to seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney to ensure that your rights are protected and to minimize the potential consequences of a conviction.
