When a Buckeye case includes multiple felony charges, a defense lawyer should review the evidence supporting each count, whether charges overlap and how potential sentences would interact. Concurrent sentences run at the same time; consecutive sentences run one after another. The options depend on the charges and circumstances of the case.
Guardian Law Group represents people facing felony charges, including cases with multiple counts. This guide explains common multi-charge situations, sentencing questions and the evidence review involved.
Why Prosecutors File Multiple Charges
Prosecutors often stack charges to strengthen their case or increase potential sentencing exposure. For example, an arrest involving drugs and a firearm may lead to separate counts for possession, transportation for sale, and weapons misconduct. In other situations, a single event may result in multiple charges such as assault, resisting arrest, and disorderly conduct.
The defense should examine whether each count is supported by evidence and meets the legal requirements for conviction. Guardian Law Group reviews the charges individually and together when evaluating defense options.
Common Scenarios Involving Multiple Felonies
Multiple felony charges can arise from many types of incidents in Arizona, including:
- Drug possession or trafficking combined with weapons offenses
- Violent altercations resulting in multiple assault or endangerment charges
- Theft, fraud, or forgery cases involving multiple victims or transactions
- Domestic disputes leading to aggravated assault and criminal damage charges
- High-speed chases or resisting arrest incidents involving additional counts
Additional charges can make a case more complex and affect potential sentencing exposure. A defense attorney can review whether any counts can be challenged, reduced or dismissed.
Consecutive vs. Concurrent Sentences
When a defendant is convicted of multiple felonies, the court must decide whether to impose consecutive or concurrent sentences.
- Consecutive sentences are served one after another, extending the total time in prison.
- Concurrent sentences are served at the same time, which can significantly reduce the overall sentence length.
Judges in Maricopa County have discretion in determining how sentences are served, based on the severity of the crimes, the defendant’s history, and mitigating or aggravating factors. Guardian Law Group works to persuade the court to impose concurrent sentences whenever possible, helping clients avoid unnecessarily long incarceration periods.
How Guardian Law Group Builds a Strong Defense
Defending multiple felony charges requires a detailed understanding of each count and how they interact under Arizona law. Guardian Law Group begins every case with a comprehensive review of the evidence, police reports, and witness statements. Our attorneys identify inconsistencies, procedural errors, and constitutional violations that can lead to the reduction or dismissal of charges.
Our defense strategies often include:
- Challenging unlawful searches or seizures that produced evidence
- Demonstrating that certain charges overlap or duplicate one another
- Negotiating to have lesser counts dismissed or merged
- Filing motions to suppress statements or improperly obtained evidence
- Presenting mitigating circumstances to reduce potential sentencing
By approaching each charge individually and collectively, we build a defense that addresses the full scope of the prosecution’s case.
The Importance of Early Legal Representation
Time is critical when facing multiple felony charges. The prosecution begins building its case immediately, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. Having an attorney involved early allows your defense team to conduct its own investigation, preserve key evidence, and challenge the state’s narrative before charges solidify.
Early legal action can also help in plea negotiations, pretrial motions, and decisions about whether to go to trial. Guardian Law Group acts quickly to protect your rights and ensure that your side of the story is heard.
Potential Penalties for Multiple Felonies
The penalties for multiple felony convictions in Arizona depend on the classification of each charge, prior criminal history, and whether the offenses are designated as dangerous. Possible consequences include:
- Years or even decades in prison if sentences are consecutive
- Mandatory prison terms for violent or dangerous offenses
- Substantial fines and restitution orders
- Probation or community supervision (for certain non-dangerous felonies)
- Permanent loss of civil rights and firearm ownership
Because Arizona law allows for enhanced penalties when multiple felonies are involved, it is vital to have an attorney who understands how to challenge sentencing enhancements and limit the damage of multiple convictions.
Why Choose Guardian Law Group
Christian Lueders is a former Maricopa County felony prosecutor. At Guardian Law Group, he represents people facing criminal charges and reviews how the evidence and sentencing issues affect their defense.
Clients choose Guardian Law Group because we offer strategic defense planning, aggressive courtroom advocacy, and clear communication throughout the process. We are committed to protecting your record, your freedom, and your future.
FAQ: Multiple Felony Charges in Arizona
Can I go to prison for multiple felonies even if it was one incident?
Yes. Prosecutors can file separate charges for different acts that occur during the same event, and each can carry its own penalty.
Can multiple charges be reduced or dismissed?
Yes. With strong defense work, some charges may be merged, reclassified, or dismissed due to lack of evidence or procedural violations.
Are sentences for multiple felonies always consecutive?
No. Judges can choose to make sentences concurrent, meaning they are served at the same time, depending on the facts and arguments presented.
How can a lawyer help in a multi-charge case?
An experienced defense attorney can challenge overcharging, suppress evidence, negotiate reduced penalties, and fight for concurrent sentencing.
Contact a Buckeye Criminal Defense Attorney
If you face multiple felony charges in Buckeye, ask counsel which evidence supports each count, whether any charges overlap and how the possible sentences would interact. Bring the charging documents and any court notices to your consultation.
Call Guardian Law Group today at (602) 888-8020 for a confidential consultation.