Arizona Criminal Case Timeline: How Long Will Your Case Last?
Being charged with a crime can be overwhelming, and one of the first questions people ask is, “How long is this going to take?” While every case is unique, there are general timelines that can help you understand what to expect.
The length of a criminal case in Arizona depends on several factors, including the type of charge, the amount of evidence involved, court scheduling, and whether the case resolves through a plea agreement or proceeds to trial.
Here’s what you need to know.
How Long Do Misdemeanor Cases Take?
Most misdemeanor cases in Arizona are resolved within two to five months. This includes offenses such as:
- Simple assault
- Disorderly conduct
- Criminal damage
- Shoplifting
- Criminal speeding (in many cases)
If you were cited and released instead of being arrested, your case may take slightly longer because you’ll first attend an arraignment before moving into the pretrial process.
Many misdemeanor cases resolve before trial through negotiations, diversion programs, or plea agreements. However, if the case goes to trial, it may take longer depending on the court’s calendar.
Why Do DUI Cases Usually Take Longer?
Although most DUI charges are misdemeanors, they often require more time than other misdemeanor offenses.
That’s because DUI cases frequently involve:
- Police reports
- Body camera footage
- Dash camera footage
- Blood or breath test results
- Laboratory analysis
- Expert review of scientific evidence
Because there is often more evidence to analyze and investigate, many DUI cases take approximately six months before reaching a resolution or being scheduled for trial.
How Long Do Felony Cases Take?
Felony cases vary much more than misdemeanors because they can range from relatively straightforward offenses to highly complex investigations.
Generally, most felony cases take three to eight months to resolve.
Factors that can affect the timeline include:
- The seriousness of the charge
- The number of witnesses
- The amount of discovery
- Whether medical records are involved
- Digital evidence such as surveillance or body camera footage
- Expert witnesses
- Laboratory testing
A simple possession case may move much faster than a felony aggravated assault case involving extensive evidence.
Can a Felony Case Take More Than a Year?
Yes.
Complex felony cases can easily take one year or longer to reach trial or resolution.
Examples include cases involving:
- Multiple defendants
- Extensive digital evidence
- Serious violent offenses
- Large amounts of body camera footage
- Significant forensic evidence
- Numerous expert witnesses
Some felony cases may remain active for well over a year, and in particularly complex situations, they can last even longer.
What About Arizona’s Speedy Trial Rule?
Many people believe Arizona law requires every criminal case to finish within six months. While Arizona does provide defendants with speedy trial rights, the reality is more nuanced.
During a criminal case, attorneys may request continuances for reasons such as:
- Reviewing newly received evidence
- Completing independent investigations
- Negotiating with prosecutors
- Waiting for laboratory testing
- Obtaining expert opinions
- Preparing motions
When a continuance is granted, the defendant may waive certain portions of the speedy trial timeline. This allows both sides additional time to properly prepare the case while protecting the defendant’s right to effective representation.
In some felony cases, the court may also designate the matter as a complex case, which extends applicable deadlines due to the nature of the evidence or legal issues involved.
Why Taking Longer Isn’t Always a Bad Thing
Many clients become frustrated when their case isn’t resolved quickly. However, a longer timeline is not necessarily a negative development.
Additional time may allow your attorney to:
- Conduct a more thorough investigation
- Review all available evidence
- Challenge weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
- Negotiate for reduced charges
- Seek a dismissal when appropriate
- Better prepare for trial if necessary
Rushing a criminal case is rarely in a defendant’s best interest. In many situations, patience provides opportunities that simply aren’t available early in the process.
Typical Arizona Criminal Case Timelines
While every case is different, these are common estimates:
| Case Type | Typical Timeline |
| Most misdemeanors | 2–5 months |
| DUI cases | Around 6 months |
| Most felony cases | 3–8 months |
| Complex felony cases | 1 year or longer |
These are only general guidelines. Some cases resolve much sooner, while others require additional time depending on the circumstances.
Speak With an Arizona Criminal Defense Attorney
If you’ve been charged with a crime, understanding the process can help reduce uncertainty and allow you to make informed decisions about your case.
At R&R Law Group, we represent clients throughout Arizona in misdemeanor, DUI, and felony matters. Our team works to thoroughly evaluate every case, protect your rights, and pursue the best possible outcome based on your individual circumstances.
If you have questions about your case or want to discuss your legal options, contact our office to schedule a free and confidential case evaluation. Early involvement by an experienced criminal defense attorney can make a meaningful difference in the direction of your case.
