Custodial Interference in Arizona: What It Is, Legal Penalties, and How to Fight Back

Child custody disputes can be emotionally charged, and in some cases, one parent may deny the other parent access to their child. While this can sometimes stem from genuine concerns about the child’s well-being, Arizona law takes custodial interference very seriously, and a conviction can lead to felony charges and significant legal consequences.

At Grand Canyon Law Group, we have extensive experience handling family-related criminal charges, including custodial interference under ARS § 13-1302. In this guide, we’ll break down the law, explain how these charges arise, and discuss possible defenses.

What is Custodial Interference Under Arizona Law?

Under ARS § 13-1302, custodial interference occurs when a person takes, withholds, or keeps a child from their lawful custodian without legal authority.

This offense most commonly arises in situations where parents are divorced or separated, but it can also apply to cases involving grandparents, legal guardians, or third parties.

According to Arizona law, a person commits custodial interference if they:

• Take or keep a child from their legal custodian without permission.
• Deny access to the child before a court order is in place.
• Violate joint custody by withholding physical custody from the other parent.
• Fail to return the child after out-of-state visitation.

Key Factors in a Custodial Interference Charge

• The accused must act knowingly – The law applies only if the accused knew or should have known that they had no legal right to interfere.
• No court order is required for a charge – Even before a custody order is in place, withholding a child from the other parent can be considered custodial interference.
• The location of the child matters – Taking a child out of Arizona can elevate the offense to a Class 4 felony.
• Returning the child voluntarily can reduce charges – If the parent returns the child within 48 hours and without injury, the charge may be reduced to a misdemeanor.

Real-Life Examples of Custodial Interference

• Parent A and Parent B share joint custody. Parent A decides to take the child on vacation and refuses to return them on the scheduled date. This could be custodial interference.
• A father without an established custody order takes his child out of state, preventing the mother from seeing the child. This could result in a felony charge.
• A mother believes her child is in danger with the other parent and keeps the child longer than allowed. If she has not filed for an emergency custody hearing, she could still face charges.

Penalties for Custodial Interference in Arizona

The penalties for custodial interference depend on the circumstances of the case and who commits the offense:

• Class 3 Felony – If the offender is not the parent or legal custodian, the charge is more severe, with possible prison time.
• Class 4 Felony – If the parent takes the child out of Arizona, they face up to 3.75 years in prison.
• Class 6 Felony – If a parent or legal custodian commits the offense but does not take the child out of state, they face up to 2 years in prison.
• Class 1 Misdemeanor – If the child is returned voluntarily within 48 hours, the charge is reduced, with a maximum 6 months in jail and fines.

Other Consequences of a Custodial Interference Conviction

Beyond criminal penalties, a custodial interference conviction can lead to:

• Loss of custodial or visitation rights.
• Permanent criminal record, affecting employment opportunities.
• Restraining orders or supervised visitation requirements.
• Difficulty in future family court proceedings.

Defenses Against Custodial Interference Charges

At Grand Canyon Law Group, we understand that not every case of custodial interference is a crime. We explore every possible defense to protect our clients from unjust charges.

Common Defenses Include:

1. Protection of the Child

Arizona law recognizes a defense when a parent takes or withholds a child to protect them from immediate danger. If a parent has a good faith and reasonable belief that the child was at risk, they may not be guilty of custodial interference.

However, the parent must file for emergency custody or an order of protection within a reasonable time to justify their actions.

2. Lack of Criminal Intent

For a person to be guilty of custodial interference, they must have knowingly violated custody rights. If there was a misunderstanding or the parent believed they had permission, this could be a strong defense.

3. No Custody Order Was in Place

If there was no formal custody agreement or court order, a parent may argue that they were exercising their parental rights. This defense is more difficult to use if the other parent can prove interference with their parental rights.

4. False Allegations

In some cases, false accusations of custodial interference arise during divorce or custody battles. If a parent is wrongfully accused, an experienced attorney can investigate the case and present evidence to disprove the allegations.

Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

Custodial interference cases are often emotionally charged and legally complex. Without proper legal representation, a parent could face serious felony charges—even if they believed they were acting in their child’s best interest.

At Grand Canyon Law Group, we bring years of experience as former prosecutors and criminal defense attorneys to every case. We know how the State builds these cases—and we know how to fight back.

When you hire us, you get:

✔ Aggressive legal defense to protect your rights.
✔ Deep knowledge of Arizona family and criminal law.
✔ Former prosecutors who understand the system.
✔ Personalized attention and 24/7 availability.

If you are under investigation or have been charged with custodial interference, time is critical. Do not speak to law enforcement or the other parent without consulting an attorney first.

Charged with Custodial Interference? Contact Grand Canyon Law Group Today

Child custody matters are already stressful, and a criminal charge can make things even more complicated. If you or someone you love is facing custodial interference charges, we are here to help you fight back and protect your rights.

Call us now at (480) 573-6441 for a confidential consultation.