Arizona’s Three Strikes Law: What It Means for Repeat Offenders
A traditional Three Strikes law is a sentence enhancement that mandates a life in prison for repeat offenders. If someone has two previous convictions for a serious or violent felony, they may be sentenced to life in prison rather than a shorter prison sentence or probation. The point of a Three Strikes law is to deter criminals from repeat offenses. In Arizona, however, the Three Strikes law does not mandate life imprisonment. Instead, the law is called a “Repetitive Offenders” law, and it requires longer prison sentences for people who have been convicted of prior offenses. However, it may be up to the judge in your case whether you receive the harshest sentence recommended by the sentencing guidelines. If you are charged with a crime in Arizona, it’s important to hire a good criminal defense lawyer. Janet Altschuler is a highly experienced defense attorney in Tucson, AZ who can help you better understand what Arizona’s repeat offenders law means.
Dangerous vs Non-Dangerous Felonies
Arizona categorizes felonies as dangerous or non-dangerous. A dangerous felony is one that involves the threat or use of a deadly weapon, or the infliction of serious physical injury. Dangerous felonies include aggravated assault with a weapon, armed robbery, and homicide. A non-dangerous felony is any other felony charge in Arizona.
Greater Penalties for Repeat Offenders
Arizona judges have the discretion to enhance penalties for people who have committed one or two previous felonies. If you are convicted of a second felony, you may face a much longer sentence. If you are convicted of your third felony, especially a dangerous felony, you could face a very long sentence and not be eligible for parole. The judge will also use specific minimum and maximum sentencing guidelines. The previous felonies could be historical prior felony convictions, or felonies that were committed on the same occasion.
Major Impact on Sentencing Decisions
Your prior criminal record, especially if it included felony convictions, will have a huge impact on the judge’s sentencing decisions. The minimum sentencing time is increased with each subsequent conviction, and your eligibility for parole is limited or nullified. While Arizona doesn’t universally mandate life in prison for repeat felonies, it does require harsher sentences. However, there is still judicial discretion and ultimately it is up to the judge to sentence you as they see fit.
Call a Tucson Criminal Defense Lawyer Now if You Are Facing Charges
If you are facing any type of criminal charges, whether felonies or misdemeanors, you need legal representation from a criminal defense attorney. Janet Altschuler has more than 20 years of experience as a criminal defense lawyer in Tucson, AZ. Call our office now or contact us online to set up a free consultation and learn more about what to expect if you are subject to Arizona’s Repetitive Offenders law. Ms. Altschuler will go over the details of your case and help you understand the potential consequences should you be convicted.