Most people think of speeding as a minor traffic issue. However, in Arizona, speeding can rise to the level of a criminal offense — and that changes everything. A criminal record from a speeding conviction can follow you far beyond the courtroom.
Gilbert, Arizona residents and drivers throughout the East Valley face criminal speeding charges more often than many realize. Because of this, understanding what a conviction actually means for your future is essential. This post explains what criminal speeding is, how it affects your record, and what your options may look like.
This content is general educational information only. It is not a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney about your specific situation.
What Is Criminal Speeding in Arizona?
Arizona treats certain speeding offenses as criminal matters — not just traffic infractions. Therefore, they carry consequences that go well beyond a fine or points on your license.
Under Arizona law, criminal speeding is generally a Class 3 misdemeanor. It applies in several specific situations.
When Does Speeding Become a Criminal Offense?
Arizona law defines criminal speeding based on specific thresholds and locations. These are the most common scenarios:
- Driving more than 35 mph over the posted speed limit
- Driving faster than 85 mph regardless of the posted limit
- Driving more than 20 mph over the limit in a school zone
These are not civil traffic violations. Instead, they are criminal charges that appear on your record if you are convicted. Many drivers in Gilbert, Mesa, and Chandler are surprised to learn this distinction after being cited.
How a Criminal Speeding Conviction Affects Your Record
A criminal speeding conviction creates a criminal record — not just a driving record entry. This is an important distinction. Furthermore, the consequences can affect multiple areas of your life.
It Shows Up on Background Checks
Employers, landlords, and licensing boards routinely run background checks. A misdemeanor conviction will appear on those checks. As a result, a criminal speeding conviction could affect your ability to get a job, rent an apartment, or obtain a professional license.
In Gilbert and throughout the Phoenix metro area, many employers conduct thorough background screenings. Even a Class 3 misdemeanor can raise red flags during the hiring process.
Impact on Your Driving Privileges
A criminal speeding conviction also triggers points on your Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) record. Additionally, your auto insurance rates are likely to increase significantly. If you accumulate enough points, your license could be suspended.
Commercial drivers face even steeper consequences. A conviction can threaten their commercial driver’s license (CDL), which directly affects their livelihood.
Potential for Jail Time and Fines
Because criminal speeding is a misdemeanor in Arizona, it carries potential criminal penalties. These can include:
- Up to 30 days in jail for a Class 3 misdemeanor
- Fines and surcharges that can add up substantially
- Probation in some cases
Most first-time offenders do not face the maximum penalties. However, the possibility of jail time alone makes this a serious charge worth taking seriously.
Why Gilbert Drivers Should Pay Close Attention
Gilbert is one of the fastest-growing communities in Arizona. As a result, law enforcement presence on roads like Gilbert Road, Higley Road, and the Santan Freeway corridor has increased. Officers actively enforce speed limits in residential areas, school zones, and construction zones.
Neighboring communities like Chandler, Queen Creek, and Mesa also see frequent criminal speeding enforcement. If you were cited in any of these areas, the charge follows the same Arizona misdemeanor framework.
School Zones Are High-Risk Areas
School zones in Gilbert carry reduced speed limits during specific hours. Moreover, speeding more than 20 mph over the posted school zone limit is automatically a criminal speeding offense. Parents driving near schools in Gilbert and Tempe should be especially aware of these rules.
Can a Criminal Speeding Charge Be Reduced or Dismissed?
In some cases, yes — but it depends heavily on the specific facts of your situation. Therefore, consulting with a criminal defense attorney is one of the most important steps you can take after a criminal speeding citation.
Possible Defense Strategies
An experienced attorney may review several aspects of your case. For example, they might examine:
- Whether the radar or speed detection equipment was properly calibrated
- Whether the officer followed proper procedures during the stop
- Whether the posted speed limit signs were clearly visible
- Whether there are mitigating factors that support a lesser charge
Additionally, a defense attorney may negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce a criminal speeding charge to a civil traffic violation. This outcome, if achievable, would prevent a conviction from appearing on your criminal record.
Diversion Programs and Alternatives
Some Arizona courts offer diversion or defensive driving options for eligible defendants. However, not every case qualifies, and criminal speeding charges have specific eligibility rules. An attorney can help you understand whether these options might apply to your situation.
Long-Term Consequences of a Criminal Record from Speeding
It may seem like a speeding ticket — but a criminal speeding conviction has lasting effects. Furthermore, these effects can compound over time in ways many people do not anticipate.
Professional Licensing Challenges
Many professions in Arizona require licensing through state boards. These include healthcare workers, real estate agents, contractors, and educators. A criminal record — even a misdemeanor — can complicate or delay the licensing process. In some cases, it may result in denial.
Impact on Future Criminal Cases
If you face another criminal charge in the future, a prior conviction on your record can influence the outcome. Prosecutors and judges often consider prior criminal history when making charging and sentencing decisions. As a result, a criminal speeding conviction today could have ripple effects for years to come.
Immigration Consequences
For non-citizens living and working in the Phoenix area, a criminal conviction — even a misdemeanor — can create immigration complications. This is a serious concern that an attorney should evaluate carefully based on individual circumstances.
Steps to Take After a Criminal Speeding Citation in Gilbert
Being cited for criminal speeding can feel overwhelming. However, you have options. Taking the right steps early can make a meaningful difference in how your case unfolds.
- Do not simply pay the ticket. Paying a criminal speeding citation may be treated as an admission of guilt. This is different from paying a civil traffic fine.
- Request a copy of your citation. Review the details carefully, including the cited speed, location, and officer information.
- Consult a criminal defense attorney promptly. Time-sensitive deadlines apply to criminal cases. Acting quickly gives your attorney more options.
- Avoid discussing the details of your stop on social media or with people outside your legal team.
Talk with a Phoenix criminal defense attorney as early as possible to understand what you are facing and what options may be available to you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Speeding in Arizona
Is criminal speeding the same as a regular speeding ticket in Arizona?
No. A regular speeding ticket in Arizona is a civil traffic violation. Criminal speeding is a Class 3 misdemeanor and creates a criminal record if you are convicted. The penalties and long-term consequences are significantly different.
Will a criminal speeding conviction show up on a background check?
Yes. Because criminal speeding is a misdemeanor offense, a conviction will appear on criminal background checks. This can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing opportunities.
Can I fight a criminal speeding charge in Gilbert?
Yes, you have the right to contest the charge. An attorney can review the evidence, challenge the accuracy of speed detection, and explore options for reduction or dismissal. Every case is different, so consulting with a defense attorney is the best starting point.
What happens if I just pay the fine for criminal speeding?
Paying the fine on a criminal speeding citation may be considered an admission of guilt. As a result, a conviction could be entered on your record. This is why speaking with an attorney before taking any action is strongly recommended.
Does Arizona allow expungement of criminal speeding convictions?
Arizona has limited expungement options. However, Arizona does allow a process called “setting aside” a conviction under certain circumstances. This does not erase the record, but it can demonstrate rehabilitation. An attorney can explain whether this option might apply after your case is resolved.
How Guardian Law Group Can Help
At Guardian Law Group, our criminal defense attorneys represent people throughout Phoenix, Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler, and the surrounding East Valley communities. We understand how much is at stake when you face a charge that could affect your criminal record.
We take time to review the facts of your case carefully. Furthermore, we explain your charges, your options, and the potential outcomes in plain language — so you can make informed decisions about how to move forward.
Whether you are dealing with a first-time criminal speeding charge or a more complex situation, we are ready to provide dedicated, strategic representation at every step.
If you or someone you know has been cited for criminal speeding in Gilbert or anywhere in the Phoenix area, do not wait. Contact Guardian Law Group today to request a free consultation and explore your options with an experienced criminal defense attorney.