Relationships are complicated. Sometimes, people who truly care about each other have moments of sharp disagreement, and other times, partners separate, and the relationship ends on bad terms. These and other emotionally charged circumstances can prompt one party to accuse the other of domestic violence, making an already intense situation even more serious.
If you are the party accused, a Nogales violent crimes lawyer from Suzuki Law Offices is here to help. Our multi-award-winning team is available 24/7 and on weekends–whenever you need us. Contact us to get superior representation from an experienced Nogales domestic violence defense lawyer.
What to Do Following an Arrest on Domestic Violence Charges
After being charged with domestic violence, law enforcement will put you in handcuffs and take you to the local precinct. During booking, officers will take your mugshot and remove your personal belongings, returning them upon your release. Your only obligation during this process is to identify yourself to law enforcement–say nothing else.
Then, use your right to call a Nogales criminal defense lawyer. From the start of your legal partnership, your attorney will be your voice in action, answering questions on your behalf or guiding you through responses. Your attorney will also prevent you from saying anything that could later be used against you.
Our team will start developing a strategy for your specific case right away. We know what evidence you can use in a criminal defense case, how to investigate all aspects of your situation, and what to expect from the prosecution. We will also give you personal support as you deal with the stress of criminal charges.
Arizona’s Definition of Domestic Violence
Violence perpetrated against another person is unlawful in most circumstances in Arizona. Charges fall into the “domestic violence” category when the person allegedly perpetrating that violence is in a domestic relationship with their accuser. Under the Arizona Revised Statutes (RS) 13-3601, these relationships count as “domestic:”
- Parties involved are married or were formerly married or are living–or have lived–in the same household
- Parties involved share a child or are expecting a child
- Parties involved are, or were, in a romantic or sexual relationship
- The victim is related to the accused or the accused’s spouse by blood or through a court order, and in these capacities: parent or grandparent; child or grandchild; sibling; parent- or grandparent-in-law or brother- or sister-in-law; stepparent, step-grandparent, stepchild, step-grandchild
- The victim is a child who either lives or has lived in the same household as the accused and “is related by blood to a former spouse of the defendant or to a person who resides or who has resided in the same household as the defendant”
You can be charged with misdemeanor or felony domestic violence. The simple answer to the question of felonies vs. misdemeanors: What is the difference is that misdemeanors are less serious offenses. Domestic violence becomes a felony when the alleged crime:
- Involved alcohol or drug use
- It is not a first offense
- Was witnessed by a child or minor
- Involved the use of a weapon or firearm
- Violates a restraining order
- Causes serious injury or death
Penalties for Domestic Violence Convictions
The punishment for domestic violence charges depends on the seriousness of the crime. Penalties can include jail or prison time, fines, and additional repercussions that can affect your life. A Nogales domestic violence defense attorney will work to keep your charges to the minimum or get them dismissed altogether.
Misdemeanor Penalties
Even though misdemeanors are less serious crimes, RS 13-307 shows they still carry serious potential penalties. Those convicted can spend months in jail. They may also face fines, as established in RS-13-802, instead or in addition to incarceration.
Felony Penalties
The Arizona State Legislature has complex sentencing laws when it comes to felony convictions. In the worst cases, offenders can be sentenced to life in prison, and as per RS13-801, fines for felonies of up to $150,000. Suzuki Law Offices will fight to protect you from these serious penalties.
Additional Penalties
Prison and fines are life-affecting outcomes of a conviction, but potential additional fallout extends from those legal penalties. Time in prison can damage your relationships. Fines can hurt your financial security.
Some convictions can limit your employment options, hurt your reputation, and impede your ability to rent or lease a place to live. Let our experienced staff handle your case so we can minimize your penalties and their long-term effects.
What a Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer in Nogales Can Do to Help You
Your domestic violence defense attorney in Nogales will look for any violations of your civil rights, and if there are violations warranting dismissal of charges, will fight for that outcome. There are also other common reasons domestic violence cases are dismissed, and if those possibilities apply, we will fight to have the court recognize the baselessness of the charges against you. For example, your accuser may have made prior false accusations or have nothing to corroborate their claims.
If dismissal is not possible, we will work to reduce your charges. As we advocate for you, you can depend on us to present strong arguments and evidence. We will also challenge the prosecution’s claims, exposing any weaknesses in their case.
Some cases are resolved through plea bargaining–the defense and prosecution negotiate a deal that usually involves lowering the charges and penalties against you. Other times, it is best to take a case to trial and fight for justice in the courtroom. We will provide you with trustworthy guidance and explain your options fully so you can make the best decision.
Suzuki is Your Lawyer for Domestic Violence Defense
When facing charges, you can feel like you are alone in your fight for justice, but you are not. The team at Suzuki Law Offices is on your side, and we are ready to protect your rights and lead your battle. Never settle for inferior representation–instead, connect with us today to secure the protection and powerful legal advocacy you need.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form