Class 2 Felony Crimes in Arizona

There were approximately a quarter of a million crimes committed in the state of Arizona last year. The vast majority of those were less serious misdemeanors. As for the more serious felonies though, they are placed into various classes based on their severity. With more than 50 different class 2 felonies in Arizona, it can be confusing to consider the three different categories of each class, the penalties, and the statutes of limitations involved. 

Defending against a class 2 felony requires a thorough understanding of the law, diligent investigation, and strategic planning. In short, you’re going to want the best Scottsdale criminal defense lawyer you can possibly hire!

What Is a Class 2 Felony in Arizona?

Again, class 2 felonies are considered the second most serious types of crimes out of the six total types of felonies in Arizona. A class 2 felony can result in significant prison time, substantial fines, and lifelong consequences. Class 2 felonies are no joke, and if you’ve been arrested for one, it’s unlikely that your Scottsdale criminal defense lawyer is going to plea bargain it away for you.

Penalties for Class 2 Felonies in Arizona

The specific details of any crime always play an integral role in what kind of sentence will be given, so it’s hard to give a set answer. Aggravating factors, such as prior convictions, the involvement of dangerous weapons, or the victim’s vulnerability, are key factors. The sentencing range for class 2 felonies in Arizona is usually typically 4-10 years in prison. More serious class 2 felonies have enhanced penalties, which could equate to a 25-year prison sentence or life imprisonment. Moreover, fines for class 2 felonies can reach up to $150,000.

Types of Class 2 Felonies in Arizona

There are three main categories of class 2 felonies in Arizona: non-dangerous offenses, dangerous offenses, and dangerous crimes against children. Here’s a deeper look at each category:

Class 2 Felonies: Non-Dangerous Offenses

People convicted of non-dangerous class 2 felonies can serve 3-12.5 year prison sentences if they have no priors. A repeat offender faces a jail term of 4.6-23 years for a class 2 felony. If you have 3 or more prior class 2 felony convictions, expect a 10.5-35 year incarceration. Non-dangerous class 2 felonies include:

• First-degree money laundering
• Theft by extortion
• Theft of property valued at $25,000 or more
• First-degree trafficking in stolen property
• Owning or operating a chop shop
• Certain severe drug-related felonies

Class 2 Felonies: Dangerous Offenses

There were over 28,000 violent crimes committed in Arizona in 2023. These crimes are punished accordingly to ensure public safety. A class 2 dangerous felony is defined as the knowing infliction of a serious physical injury on another or the discharge, use, or threatening to use a dangerous instrument or deadly weapon. 

If convicted of a dangerous class 2 felony in Arizona, you could be sentenced to 7-21 years in prison, assuming you have no priors. If you do have even just one prior class 2 felony conviction, expect a prison term of 14-28 years. If you’ve committed more than two class 2 felonies, this one comes with a sentence between 21 and 35 years. Depending on the specifics, dangerous class 2 felonies can include:

• Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon
• Sexual assault
• Armed robbery
• Kidnapping
• Child molestation
• Drive-by shooting

Class 2 Felonies: Dangerous Crimes Against Children

In Arizona, sentencing is more severe when the victim is underage. Because of that, a dangerous crime against a child has the highest penalties of all the class 2 felonies in Arizona. A child is defined as someone under 15 years of age. For a first-time class 2 felony in this category, a guilty defendant could face from 10 to 24 years in prison. If you already have one class 2 felony conviction for a dangerous crime against a minor on your record, the sentence range is 21 to 35 years in prison. 

Some examples of dangerous crimes against a child that can fall under the class 2 felony umbrella include:

• Sex trafficking
• Sexual assault
• Sexual abuse
• Kidnapping
• Child molestation
• Second-degree murder
• Using a minor in a drug offense

Remember each different offense carries its own set of elements and possible enhancements.

Other Examples of Class 2 Felonies

Here are further examples of class 2 felonies as designated by the state of Arizona:

• ARS §13-1001: Attempt of a class 1 felony
• ARS §13-1207: Assault by a prisoner with intent to incite to riot or participate in a riot
• ARS §13-1209: Drive-by shooting
• ARS §13-1211: Discharging a firearm at a residential structure
• ARS §13-1704: Arson of an occupied structure
• ARS §13-1802: Theft with a value of $25,000 or more
• ARS §13-1804: Theft by extortion 
• ARS §13-1818: Misappropriation of charter school monies over $25,000
• ARS §13-2109: Credit card transaction record theft ($25,000 or more)
• ARS §13-2307: Trafficking in stolen property 
• ARS §13-2308.01: Terrorism
• ARS §13-2312: Illegal control of an enterprise
• ARS §13-2316: Computer tampering 
• ARS §13-2319: Smuggling of an unaccompanied minor for profit or commercial purpose
• ARS §13-2320: Residential mortgage fraud 
• ARS §13-2321: Participating in a criminal street gang
• ARS §13-2505: Promoting prison contraband
• ARS §13-2912: Introduction of life-threatening disease or parasite 
• ARS §13-3404.01: Possession or sale of precursor chemicals
• ARS §13-3409: Involving or using minors in drug offenses
• ARS §49-263: Knowingly or recklessly manifesting extreme indifference to human life in performing certain acts relating to water quality control standards 
• ARS §49-514: Certain violations of the hazardous air pollutants statutes

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Can a Class 2 Felony Be Reduced to a Misdemeanor?

It’s challenging but not impossible to get a class 2 felony reduced to a misdemeanor, especially if there are no priors and the offense was non-violent. Downgrading a class 2 felony to a misdemeanor requires some serious mastery of legal negotiation, so you’re advised to hire the absolute best Scottsdale criminal defense lawyer you can. The Law Offices of John Phebus can help!

Statute of Limitations for Class 2 Felonies in Arizona

In Arizona, the statute of limitations for class 2 felonies is generally seven years from the date the offense was committed. Remember, if the victim was a minor, this period can be extended. Leaving the state also paused the clock from ticking, so if a perpetrator runs, the time frame can be longer.

If You Need a Trusted Scottsdale Criminal Defense Lawyer

With the diverse background, decades of experience, and passionate dedication of the team at the Law Offices of John Phebus, you will no doubt get one of the very best criminal defenses possible. Our reputable, trustworthy Scottsdale criminal defense lawyers are eager to help stand up for your rights and fight for you. To see if we are the right team for you, contact us online or call (623) 847-7120 now to set up a free legal consultation.

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John Allen Phebus

Experienced Personal Injury & Criminal Defense Attorney

John Phebus is a seasoned attorney specializing in personal injury and criminal defense law. With a focus on DUI defense, vehicular crimes, and serious injury cases, John has been fiercely advocating for his clients, ensuring they receive the representation and compensation they deserve. His expertise and dedication have led to numerous successful outcomes. If you’re seeking a knowledgeable and passionate attorney who will fight for your rights, John Phebus is here to help.

Years of experience: +30 years

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