By Your Phoenix Attorney • 2026-05-23
Federal vs. State Criminal Charges in Arizona
A federal criminal defense attorney — operates under an entirely different procedural and sentencing regime than a state-court criminal defense lawyer.
Different prosecutors, different courts
State cases are prosecuted by county attorneys in superior court. Federal cases are prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys in U.S. District Court.
Different sentencing
Federal cases use the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and frequently impose mandatory minimums. State cases are sentenced under ARS Title 13. There is no parole in the federal system.
Different discovery rules
Federal discovery under Rule 16 is narrower than Arizona's Rule 15. Brady, Giglio, and Jencks Act material are produced on different timelines.
Who you hire matters
Make sure your attorney is admitted to the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona before hiring them for a federal case.
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