A severe issue, domestic violence is met with severe consequences for those who are convicted. In the state of Arizona, domestic violence is defined as any criminal act of abuse committed by one family or household member against another, and not all of these criminal acts need be violent in nature. Domestic violence can be considered as such whether it is qualified as physical, emotional, sexual, economic control, or neglect.
If you are convicted of domestic violence, the first offense is considered a misdemeanor. If you are found guilty for a 3rd time within a 7 year period, you may be charged with a felony, in which you will be expected to serve time in prison. This applies even if the conviction occurs in another state. Additionally, aggravated domestic violence is a Class 5 felony.
What Counts as Domestic Violence?
According to Arizona Revised Statute § 13-3601, domestic violence refers to any dangerous or physically harmful crime against related parties. At the core of a domestic violence crime is the relationship between those involved. Domestic violence crimes involve parties who are related by marriage, those who have had a romantic or sexual relationship, family members, or those who have lived together.
Domestic violence charges can encompass a wide variety of crimes, including:
- Child abuse
- Elder abuse
- Physical or verbal assault
- Physical or sexual battery
- Sexual assault
- False imprisonment
- Kidnapping
- Disorderly conduct
- Trespass
- Aggravated harassment or stalking
- Violation of a restraining order
- Murder
Arizona Domestic Violence Penalties
Domestic violence crimes can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the severity of the case. A conviction could come with very harsh penalties, especially if the case involves weapons or resulted in injury to another person.
Depending on the circumstances surrounding the individual crime, as well as on the presence of any aggravating factors, an individual may face probation and/or time in jail or prison, and may also have to attend domestic violence counseling. Additionally, they may also lose their firearm privileges and child custody or visitation rights. Other indirect penalties that may affect the individual’s future might also include job loss, difficulty gaining employment, and a damaged reputation in their community.
Are You Facing Domestic Violence Charges? Call Knowles Law Firm, PLC Today.
Considering the serious consequences of a domestic violence conviction, it is important to contact a Phoenix criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to begin preparing your defense. For your free consultation, get in touch with a lawyer from Knowles Law Firm, PLC today.
Contact Our Phoenix Criminal Defense Lawyers Today
If you have been charged or accused of domestic violence, there is no time to waste in enlisting in the proper legal counsel, care, and representation you deserve. With your future, reputation, and freedom on the line, our Phoenix criminal defense attorneys of Knowles Law Firm, PLC will work tirelessly to ensure you are taken care of throughout the entire process. We will apply our over 20 years of experience to your particular situation, as fighting for your rights is our number one priority. Don’t face this serious situation without our trusted legal counsel.
Interested in schedule an initial consultation? Please don’t hesitate to contact us at your earliest convenience by calling (602) 702-5431.