Richard Coffinger

About Richard Coffinger

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH OF RICHARD D. COFFINGER

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Education

• Law School: Arizona State

Common questions about Criminal Defense in Arizona

Answered by Arizona Attorney Search Network

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Arizona?

Arizona criminal offenses are classified by severity under Title 13 of the Arizona Revised Statutes. Misdemeanors fall into Classes 1-3 (maximum 6 months in jail and $2,500 fine for a Class 1 misdemeanor under ARS § 13-707). Felonies fall into Classes 1-6, with Class 1 (homicide) the most serious and Class 6 the least; felony convictions carry prison exposure and the potential loss of civil rights including firearms ownership.

What is an arraignment in Arizona criminal court?

An arraignment is the first formal court appearance after charges are filed - typically within 24-48 hours of arrest. The defendant hears the charges, enters a plea (almost always 'not guilty' at this stage), and the court addresses bail or release conditions. For felonies, the equivalent first appearance is the Initial Appearance, with arraignment in Superior Court occurring after preliminary hearing or grand jury indictment.

What is a plea bargain and how common is it in Arizona?

A plea bargain is a negotiated agreement between the prosecutor and defendant for a reduced charge, reduced sentence, or both, in exchange for a guilty or no-contest plea. Roughly 90-95% of Arizona criminal cases resolve by plea rather than trial. The judge must accept the plea (Rule 17, Arizona Rules of Criminal Procedure) and confirm that it is knowing, intelligent, and voluntary.

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