Facing charges for disorderly conduct with a firearm in Maricopa County? This is a serious charge that needs strong representation. In Arizona, this kind of charge isn’t just a slap on the wrist. If a firearm is involved, disorderly conduct can be filed as a felony.
That means you could be looking at prison time, especially if you’ve had any prior run-ins with the law. But before panic sets in, know this: you do have options, and the steps you take right now can make a huge difference.
Working with an experienced Arizona criminal defense attorney can help you make sense of your charges and start building a strong defense. In this blog, we’ll break down what you need to know.
What Is Disorderly Conduct with a Firearm?
In Arizona, disorderly conduct with a firearm is more than a minor offense; it can be charged as a felony under ARS 13-2904. You may face these charges if you create a disturbance in a public area while displaying or mishandling a firearm.
Common examples include:
- Displaying a firearm in a threatening manner
- Recklessly handling or brandishing a firearm
- Discharging a firearm in a disorderly situation
- Road rage incidents involving the display of a firearm
These charges carry the potential for significant prison time, especially for repeat offenders.
How Our Maricopa County Gun Crime Lawyers Can Help
Benefits of hiring a Maricopa County gun crime lawyer to fight your charges include:
- Experience dealing with criminal charges
- Confident protection of your constitutional rights and freedom
- Strategic defense that safeguards your future and reputation
- Expert advocacy ensuring every legal avenue is explored to protect your case
- Professional representation that fights to minimize life-altering consequences
- Skilled legal counsel defending against charges that could derail your career and livelihood
At Lerner and Rowe Law Group, we defend clients across Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Glendale, and surrounding areas in Maricopa County. Our criminal lawyers will ensure that you understand your legal rights so that you can make an informed decision that is within your best interests.
Penalties for Disorderly Conduct with a Firearm in Maricopa County
The penalties for disorderly conduct with a firearm in Maricopa County vary depending on the details of your case and your legal history. Disorderly conduct lawyers in Arizona can assess your charges to determine the potential prison time you face.
These charges are classified as a class 6 felony, according to Arizona’s Disorderly Conduct Law: ARS 13-2904. The significant distinction is that the offense is classified as a “dangerous” offense which means mandatory prison time if convicted at trial. The typical penalty is 1.5 to 3 years of prison for a first-time offender. If you have prior felony convictions, you may face 3 to 6 years.
However, every case is different. For example, discharging, brandishing, or carrying a firearm could lead to other criminal charges.
Along with disorderly conduct, the team at Lerner and Rowe Law Group assists with a wide range of legal matters. Our legal services also cover:
- DUI/DWI cases
- Drug possession
- Assault
- Sexual crimes
- Burglary
- Vehicular crimes
- Manslaughter
- Domestic violence
For disorderly conduct or any other charges, including misconduct involving weapons, don’t delay in speaking with an attorney. Doing so could negatively impact your future.
Know Your Rights: When Showing Your Firearm Is Justified Under Arizona Law
Arizona’s defensive display of a firearm law (A.R.S. § 13-421) provides important protection for responsible gun owners who find themselves in threatening situations. However, it’s crucial to understand exactly what this law covers and where its limitations lie.
What Is “Defensive Display”?
Under Arizona law, defensive display includes:
- Verbally telling someone that you are armed
- Exposing your firearm in a protective or warning manner
- Placing your hand on a holstered weapon to indicate you are prepared to defend yourself
When Is It Justified?
Your defensive display is legally protected when and to the extent that a reasonable person would believe:
- Physical force is immediately necessary to protect against the use or attempted use of unlawful physical force or deadly force
Important Defense Limitations
You cannot claim this defense if:
- You provoked the confrontation
- You were committing a serious crime at the time
Even if you believe you acted in justified self-defense, prosecutors can still charge you with disorderly conduct with a firearm if they think the statutory requirements were not met. The line between lawful defensive display and criminal brandishing often comes down to:
- The specific circumstances
- Whether your actions were objectively reasonable under the threat you faced
Facing Charges for Displaying Your Firearm?
Don’t leave your rights to chance. Call Lerner and Rowe Law Group today to protect your freedom and assert your right to self-defense. Our experienced Arizona criminal defense team is here to help.
What Happens After Being Charged with Disorderly Conduct with a Firearm?
If you’re facing disorderly conduct with a firearm charges in Arizona, here’s what you can generally expect in the criminal justice process:
- Arrest and Initial Processing: Law enforcement will take you into custody, transport you to the station, and book you. During this stage, you’ll be fingerprinted and photographed, and formal charges will be filed.
Note: You have the right to remain silent, and it is almost always in your best interest to exercise that right until you have spoken with your attorney. - Initial Appearance and Arraignment: You will have your initial appearance before a judge, where release conditions and bail are set. At arraignment, you’ll enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest). This is also when the court will set future hearing dates and determine if you qualify for a public defender if you do not hire private counsel.
- Pretrial and Trial: Your attorney will review police reports, examine evidence, file any necessary motions, and negotiate with the prosecutor for potential dismissal or reduction of charges. If your case proceeds to trial, both sides will present evidence and arguments before a judge or jury to determine guilt.
- Sentencing (If Convicted): If found guilty or if you accept a plea deal, the court will impose sentencing. This can range from fines and probation to jail or prison time, depending on your charges, criminal history, and the circumstances of your case.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Facing a firearm-related charge is serious and can carry lasting consequences. Your attorney’s role is crucial in building your defense, protecting your constitutional rights, and working toward the best possible outcome for your situation.
If you’ve been charged, call Lerner and Rowe Law Group today to speak with an experienced Arizona gun crimes attorney who will fight for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Firearm Disorderly Conduct
Possible defenses against disorderly conduct charges include:
– Challenging the evidence against you
– Claiming self-defense
– Arguing a lack of intent
Allow us to explore potential defenses for your case. Your best option is to get a hold of a lawyer as soon as possible.
Yes, you can still be charged with disorderly conduct with a firearm when not using a firearm. The presence of the firearm during a disorderly conduct situation could result in these charges being pursued.
Yes. You may receive jail or prison time if you are found guilty of disorderly conduct with a firearm in Maricopa County because this offense is classified as a felony in Arizona.
To speak with a qualified attorney in Maricopa County, contact the award-winning criminal defense team at Lerner and Rowe Law Group. We are ready to help. Contact us via LiveChat today to set up a time for your free consultation—or call us directly at (602) 667-7777.
Choose Lerner and Rowe Law Group for Your Defense Today
A disorderly conduct with a firearm charge in Maricopa County is a serious offense that can lead to steep fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. That is why you need experienced legal representation on your side.
At Lerner and Rowe Law Group, our defense attorneys have a proven track record handling firearm-related and disorderly conduct charges across Maricopa County. We know how prosecutors build these cases, and we know how to fight back to protect your rights, freedom, and future.
Call us today at (602) 667-7777 for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll explain your legal options, answer your questions, and discuss affordable payment plans to help ease the process. You have nothing to lose, and much to gain.