Phoenix Criminal Damage To Property Lawyer & Attorney

Crimes against property can carry sentences as harsh as those dealing with crimes against people. Arson is the perfect example. If you or a loved one is facing serious felony charges dealing with the criminal damage of property, then you need an Arizona criminal damage attorney to defend you. Even a misdemeanor offense is going to leave a mark on your permanent record and this could have an effect on future employment, finding a place to live, individuals trusting you, and much more. You need a competent and sold criminal defense to help you in your case.  If you’ve been accused of criminal damage to property in Phoenix, Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale or the surrounding area it is important to give Myles A. Schneider & Associates a call before talking to the police.

Reasons For Criminal Damage Charges

There are a number of reasons why a person may be charged with criminal damage of property. They include:

  • Defacing the property of another person
  • Tampering or altering property so that its function is impaired or its value decreased
  • Tampering with utility service property
  • Graffiti on public or private buildings without the consent of the owner

People value their property and their property is an asset. Damaging that asset hurts them financially. Any time a person is intentionally injured financially by another, there are stiff penalties to be paid.

Criminal Penalties

The potential sentence is based upon the property value that was damaged. Here is how the sentencing is based:

  • Class 4 Felony – $10,000 or more property value = up to 2.5 years in prison
  • Class 5 Felony – $2,000 to $10,000 in property value = up to 1.5 years in prison
  • Class 6 Felony – $250 – $2,000 in property value = Up to 1 year in prison
  • Class 2 Misdemeanor – Up to 4 months in jail

If the damage is done to utility company property, then the offense is a class 4 Felony with a sentence of up to 2.5 years in prison.

Aggravated Criminal Damage

The structure that is damaged can determine whether or not an offense is “aggravated.” There are some structures that are deemed more sacred than others and that means stiff penalties. These structures can be churches, schools, cemeteries or mortuaries, and construction or agricultural sites. An aggravated offense can warrant a prison sentence of up to 3.5 years if the property value is $10,000 or more or at least 1.5 years n prison if the value is $1,500 or less. If you are charged with any of this, you need a Phoenix criminal damage lawyer to help you every step of the way.

Contact An Arizona Criminal Damage Lawyer

If you have been charged with or you are still under investigation for criminal damage of property, you need an aggressive attorney who can investigate the claims against you and create a strategic defense on your behalf. To find out how we can make a difference in your life, call us at 602-926-7373 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free consultation. We are available 24/7 so that you don’t have to face the charges alone.

Have you been charged with a crime? Get in touch with a qualified and professional Arizona Criminal Defense Lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case! Our legal experts will fight for your rights and you will get you justice you deserve.

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ASSOCIATIONS

Myles A. Schneider & Associates, Ltd we are proud to be associates With Federal Bar Association. AVVO, State Bar Of Arizona and MSBA.