What Are Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude?
Crimes involving moral turpitude carry serious consequences, as they can impact immigration status, employment opportunities, and professional licenses. These offenses are considered crimes of dishonesty or depravity, often leading to harsher penalties and long-term reputational damage. Anyone facing charges that may be classified as crimes of moral turpitude should understand how these offenses are treated under criminal defense law.
How Arizona Defines Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude
Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 1-215, courts classify offenses involving moral turpitude based on fraud, dishonesty, violence, or extreme recklessness. If you are convicted of a moral turpitude offense, you may face harsher penalties, immigration consequences, and long-term damage to your reputation.
Arizona courts consider a crime to involve moral turpitude if it includes intent to deceive, harm, or act with extreme disregard for human life. Penalties for repeat offenders convicted of moral turpitude offenses could be enhanced, increasing jail time, fines, and probation requirements. The classification of your charge can significantly impact sentencing, professional licensing, and future legal rights.
Fraud and Financial Crimes as Moral Turpitude Offenses
Fraud-related crimes are among the most common white-collar crimes classified as moral turpitude offenses in Arizona. If you are accused of identity theft, forgery, embezzlement, or bribery, you may be facing felony charges that can affect employment, immigration status, and financial stability. Arizona law treats these crimes as serious offenses because they involve deception and financial harm.
Identity Theft and Financial Fraud
Arizona law defines identity theft, forgery, and embezzlement as moral turpitude offenses due to their deceptive nature. Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-2008, identity theft is a felony that carries prison time, steep fines, and permanent criminal records. Fraud-related offenses can also lead to civil liability, where victims may sue for financial damages.
Bribery and Public Corruption
Bribery, extortion, and public corruption offenses are considered crimes of moral turpitude under Arizona law. These crimes often involve government officials, law enforcement, or business executives who abuse their positions for financial gain.
Arizona law criminalizes bribery and public corruption under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-2602, making it a felony offense with penalties that include loss of public office, felony records, and mandatory prison sentences. If convicted, you may also lose professional licenses and the ability to work in government-related fields.
Violent Crimes and Sex Crimes as Moral Turpitude Offenses
Crimes that involve violence, coercion, or intent to harm are among the most serious moral turpitude offenses under Arizona law. If you are convicted of a violent crime, you may face enhanced sentencing, loss of gun rights, and a permanent criminal record.
Homicide and Aggravated Assault
Arizona classifies homicide, manslaughter, and aggravated assault as crimes of moral turpitude because they involve intentional harm or reckless disregard for life. Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-1105, first-degree murder carries a penalty of life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Sex Crimes and Offender Registration
Sex crimes such as sexual assault, child exploitation, and prostitution-related offenses are classified as moral turpitude offenses under Arizona law. If you are convicted of a felony sex crime, you may be required to register as a sex offender under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-3821. Other violent or sexual offenses classified as moral turpitude crimes include:
- Kidnapping
- Sexual assault
- Dangerous crimes against children
- Domestic violence strangulation
If you are charged with a crime involving moral turpitude, the consequences can impact every aspect of your life.
Get Help Clearing Your Name From a Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you have been accused of a crime that may be considered an offense of moral turpitude, your future could be at stake. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of your case, build a strong defense, and explore all legal options to minimize the impact on your life. Whether you are facing charges related to fraud, violence, or a sex crime, having experienced legal representation can make all the difference. Protect your rights, reputation, and future by consulting with an attorney who specializes in defending against crimes involving moral turpitude.
Contact an Experienced Tucson Criminal Defense Lawyer at Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys Today For Help
For more information, contact the Tucson criminal defense attorneys at Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys for a free consultation.
Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys
177 N Church Ave # 900, Tucson, AZ 85701
(520) 510-0439