If you have been arrested on a domestic violence charge, a lot is at stake. A conviction for domestic violence can follow you for life. It can interfere with your ability to find a job and housing, plus lead to severe penalties such as jail time. Protect your rights and freedom by hiring a Chandler domestic violence lawyer from AZ Defenders to stand by your side. Contact us now to start with a free consultation.
There are two parts to the definition of domestic violence in Arizona: assault and the relationship between parties. Assault is the crime of physically injuring someone, such as slapping, punching or kicking a person. When assault takes place between two parties within the same household, such as two spouses or former partners, it is domestic violence.
Domestic violence can take the form of physical or sexual assaults against a household member. Domestic violence can also, however, be nonphysical; it can be verbal, emotional or mental. Examples of nonphysical domestic violence are threats, intimidation, harassment, stalking, kidnapping, verbally abusing or putting someone in imminent fear of bodily harm. If you have further questions about what constitutes domestic violence in Arizona, speak with a Chandler criminal defense lawyer experienced in domestic violence cases.
A protective order is a legal document requiring one person to stay away from another. Protective orders are judge-issued documents that force someone – often an alleged abuser – to cease all forms of contact with an alleged victim. The goal of a protective order is to prevent further abusive behaviors. There are five different types of protective orders in Arizona.
As someone accused of domestic violence in Chandler, you may find that the alleged victim has taken out a protective order against you. If this is the case, it is extremely important to abide by the rules of the protective order. Failing to do so could lead to your arrest. Learn more about protective orders in Arizona by speaking with a Chandler domestic violence lawyer at AZ Defenders.
Be proactive in your defense as someone accused of domestic violence in Arizona. A criminal conviction can lead to life-changing consequences. According to Arizona Revised Statute 13-3601, the penalties for a domestic violence crime include:
Depending on the degree of the alleged assault and the age of the victim, you could be facing a class 3 or class 2 felony. A felony conviction in Arizona can rob you of your freedom and certain privileges. It can also make it more difficult to find employment and housing.
A domestic violence defense strategy may be available to you. Work with a Chandler domestic violence attorney who will listen to your story, analyze your criminal history and customize the right defense strategy for you. A few different defense options may be suitable for your circumstances:
A domestic violence defense attorney may be able to file a motion to dismiss the charges based on an argument such as wrong defendant or lack of evidence. A lawyer may also be able to negotiate a satisfactory plea deal based on your lack of a criminal record.
Speak to a Chandler or Phoenix domestic violence attorney from AZ Defenders to learn more about the right defense for your case. We are experienced defense attorneys with a long track record of success. We can help you during this tough time and see you through to the other side. Call our law office at (480) 456-6400 24/7 or contact us online for a free consultation in Chandler, AZ.