Family conflicts can get out of hand more easily than most people think. When tensions run high, arguments heat up, and serious arguments often end in law enforcement involvement. When someone – an alleged victim, family member, neighbor, or concerned citizen – calls law enforcement, a family member at the scene is usually charged with domestic violence.
If you were arrested for domestic violence in Phoenix, working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer should be your first priority. Law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and judges take allegations of this nature very seriously, which is why it would be wise to contact Suzuki Law Offices as soon as possible. We are available 24/7, so don’t wait to call.
Have you been arrested for domestic violence? Contact Suzuki Law Offices for a free initial consultation.
What is considered domestic violence in Arizona? Under Arizona state law, the term domestic violence refers to any acts or threatened acts of violence that occur between two or more people in a domestic relationship. A “domestic relationship” can refer to the relationship between spouses, dating couples, parents who share a child, parents and their children, siblings, and/or roommates and cohabitants.
This can include assault, battery, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, threatening, kidnapping, and criminal trespass.
Examples of domestic violence include:
If you have been arrested on suspicion of domestic violence, the first thing you need to remember is that you have the right to remain silent and to hire an attorney. When the police arrive to arrest you, don’t try to talk your way out of the arrest. Anything that you say to police, even if you believe you are defending yourself, can be used in court by prosecutors.
Furthermore, be polite to the police. Resisting or being insulting or argumentative can only hurt your image and therefore your case. Once you are in custody, don’t attempt to make any deals with the police or sign any statements. Get in touch with a Phoenix domestic violence attorney from our firm who can ensure that your rights are protected.
Being accused of domestic violence – indeed, of any violent crime – should be taken extremely seriously, even if you believe the accusation to be unfounded. Unfortunately, false allegations of domestic violence are not uncommon, especially in heated divorce cases.
Aggressively prosecuted in Arizona, domestic abuse cases are not dismissable even if the victim claims they don’t want to press charges. Only the District Attorney has the authority to drop charges once they have been filed.
The consequences of a domestic violence conviction can be significant and may include jail time, fines, and a loss of reputation that may make it difficult to obtain employment or a place to live.
Depending on the case, you may face court requirements that make your life inconvenient or consequences that change your life forever. Parents, husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, and even grandparents can all find themselves facing domestic violence charges when things get out of hand.
People who are convicted of domestic violence often face court-ordered:Don’t risk this outcome by not getting in touch with an attorney at your first opportunity. The criminal justice system can be highly complex, but with the right person on your side, you can have your rights protected and move forward with your life as favorably as possible.
At Suzuki Law Offices, we have in-depth knowledge of the law gained from our experience on both sides of criminal cases. Richard Suzuki began his career as a Deputy Maricopa County Attorney and Assistant U.S. Attorney before becoming a criminal defense attorney in Phoenix. We know what local prosecutors and judges are thinking in violent crime cases, and we know how to achieve the best possible results in domestic violence cases. Contact us today for the help you need.
Don’t let a domestic violence accusation ruin your life. Contact Suzuki Law Offices to dicuss your case with our Phoenix domestic violence lawyer today!