5 Common Criminal Offenses in Arizona
Arizona's criminal justice system is also complex. You may be faced with multiple legal issues and jargon, which can be confusing. If you lack legal representation, this makes it more complicated. And this is why it's critical to hire a criminal defense attorney when charged with a criminal offense.
What are the common criminal offenses in Arizona?
- Violent crimes
Violent crimes are felonies whereby the perpetration issues threats that result in physical or mental harm. In such crimes, the victim is harmed by the threats. However, the Tucson Criminal Defense Attorney will tell you that the degree of violence depends on other aspects. These include the use of weapons, the intention of the offender, and their criminal background.
Examples of violent crimes are;
- Assault
- Sexual assault
- Armed robbery
- Rape
- Domestic abuse and more
- White-collar crimes
These are non-violent but financially motivated. They are considered environmental crimes, extortion, fraudulent schemes, regulatory crimes, and more. Moreover, such felonies are committed by people of high or respectable social status. They are common among high-ranking employees against companies.
Examples include:
- Bribery
- Fraud
- Insider trading
- Embezzlement
- Ponzi schemes
- Property crime
Property crimes are common in Arizona. They involve the destruction of another person's property but don't involve the use of threats or force. These are primarily unlawful entry or burglary to steal from the property owner. Examples of such crimes are;
- Shoplifting
- Theft
- Arson
- Burglary
- Auto theft
- 4. Public Order Crime
Public order crimes are acts that don't conform to society's social behavior and values. In such a crime, there's no victim, but the offender still violates criminal law. These are, for instance;
Drunkenness- Drunkenness involves alcohol or public intoxication.
Illegal gambling: Illegal gambling involves betting or wagering that's prohibited by the state laws. Legal gambling casinos don't exist in the state, but players use offshore sites to play real money games.
Illegal drug use: Illegal drugs are found at an alarming rate in the state of Arizona. The commonly abused drugs; Methamphetamine, Cocaine, Heroin, and Marijuana.
Paraphilia- This is a sexual act that's considered abnormal.
Pornography: Is the representation of sexual behavior in images, books, and other media with the intent to cause sexual excitement.
Prostitution: Prostitution is engaging in sexual acts for monetary gains. Paraphilia also falls in this class if done for payment in cash or kind.
- Organized crime
This refers to an established group of individuals aiming to engage in criminal acts. Such groupings are organized and engage in various illegal activities. They also have a strong support network.
Examples of organized crimes in Arizona are;
- Extortion
- Bribery
- Counterfeiting
- Organized prostitution
- Murder for hire
- Drug trafficking
What should you know about criminal charges in Arizona?
The criminal justice system assumes innocence on an offender until proven guilty. This means that the accuser has to prove that you're guilty to face criminal charges. For minor charges, you'll be asked to represent yourself in court after the charging. In some cases, an arrest warrant will be issued, whereby law enforcers can apprehend you. This then translates to more trouble, for it means that you're avoiding facing the charges.
All in all, you need an attorney to guide you and represent you. The professional will interview you to get all the details concerning the case. He or she will also conduct further investigations to find ways of acquitting the defendant. The lawyer will also bargain with the prosecutor to get a favorable plea and reduce the possible punishment or charges.
Final thoughts
There are various types of criminal cases in Arizona. If you're charged with the crimes mentioned above, don't panic. Instead, contact a criminal defense attorney to help you out. These professionals are always willing to stand for the rights of people who need them.
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