What is domestic violence?

In Arizona, domestic violence is not generally a crime in itself. It is a “tag” or enhancement placed on other crimes—such as disorderly conduct, assault, or criminal damage—when the named victim is related or connected to the defendant in a qualifying way. It is based on the relationship, not how “violent” the underlying conduct is, and charges can apply even without physical harm, including threats of future physical or emotional harm.

What is domestic or intimate relationship violence?

A crime can be considered a domestic violence offense only if the relationship between the accused and the named victim qualifies as domestic under Arizona law. The page notes that qualifying relationships include people who are in a romantic relationship, had a child together, live together, or have blood relatives, and that the definition can include roommates and separated co-parents.

Felony or misdemeanor domestic violence?

Because “domestic violence” is a tag placed on other offenses, it can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony. If the underlying offense is a felony (such as aggravated assault), the domestic violence case would be prosecuted as a felony. The page also explains that Arizona treats domestic violence as a “three strikes” type of crime, where even an offense that would normally be a misdemeanor can be charged as a felony if a person has two prior domestic violence convictions.

What behaviors constitute assault?

The page explains that assault can be charged in a few different ways, including touching somebody in any way that is intended to insult, injure, or provoke. It does not have to be a strike or punch, and it can include conduct that puts someone in reasonable apprehension of physical harm, such as pretending to punch them. Pointing a gun at somebody, even if no shots are fired, would be felony-level aggravated assault. Different levels of physical injury can lead to different levels of assault charges.

What are the penalties of a domestic violence conviction?

Sentencing depends on whether the underlying offense is a misdemeanor or felony. For a misdemeanor, penalties could include up to six months in jail and a fine of $2,500. For felonies, prison terms are based on six levels of severity and can range from four months to twenty-five years (or more for severe cases). The page also notes additional potential consequences, including court-mandated counseling classes, probation, drug and/or alcohol testing, and prohibition from possessing a firearm.

Mesa Domestic Violence Lawyer | Get Help in Your Corner

You can take charge of your future after an arrest by hiring a skilled Mesa domestic violence lawyer from our team at Grand Canyon Law Group. Our team understands these charges and can focus on building your defense immediately.

We have over 100 years of combined legal experience and the resources to prioritize your needs after an arrest. A Mesa criminal defense lawyer from our team can discuss options like getting your charges dropped or reduced. We’re also fully prepared to fight for you in court when necessary.

Why Hire Our Domestic Violence Lawyers in Mesa, AZ?

Turning to our criminal defense law firm when you face domestic abuse charges means you‘ll have someone on your side and fully prepared to fight for you. We can:

Offer you legal advice after reviewing your situation
Answer any questions you have and explain your situation
Discuss legal strategies that can resolve your charges
Protect your rights and stand up for you
Help at arraignment and bail hearings
Develop a defense strategy to meet your specific needs

You can rely on us to provide personalized support throughout all stages of the legal process. We understand what you’re going through and how these criminal charges can impact your life, and we’re ready to focus on your needs.

For a free legal consultation with a domestic violence lawyer serving Mesa, call 480-400-5555

Types of Domestic Violence Cases We Handle

Our dedicated criminal defense team can help if you face a wide range of charges in the criminal justice system. For example, you can contact us for help from a:

Mesa Child Abuse Lawyer: The court system in Arizona treats child abuse very seriously. Convictions for an act of abuse can include fines, jail time, and other serious penalties. A conviction could even impact custody proceedings.
Mesa Child Endangerment Lawyer: You could face child endangerment allegations if the police accuse you of recklessly endangering a child in a way that results in substantial risk of imminent death or physical injury. You can contact us now for help handling these allegations.
Mesa Protective Orders Lawyer: We’re here to help if you face an order of protection after an allegation of abuse. We understand how protective orders and restraining orders can connect to domestic violence laws in Arizona.
Mesa Roommate Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer: We understand how to handle your legal needs for cases involving roommate domestic violence. We have the legal resources to fight for you after an arrest.
Mesa Spousal Abuse Lawyer: Mesa prosecutors take spousal abuse allegations seriously. We can help you build a defense if your spouse accuses you of harming them. We’re ready to discuss your legal needs right now.
Mesa Stalking Lawyer: We’re ready to fight for you if you face stalking allegations. Our team will discuss the steps you should take after an arrest, stand up for your rights, and represent your best interests every step of the way.

You can learn more about how our criminal law firm can help with your specific legal needs by reaching out to us today for dedicated assistance.

Mesa Domestic Violence Lawyer Near Me 480-400-5555

Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence Allegations

Our domestic violence attorneys in Mesa can help you understand your situation after an arrest by answering questions like:

What are Domestic Violence Charges in Arizona?

You can face domestic violence charges if the police accuse you of attempting to cause bodily injury to a member of your family or household or making a member of your family or household fear imminent physical harm. In many cases, the abuse must include an act prohibited under laws like:

ARS 13-1202: Threatening or Intimidating
ARS 13-1203: Assault
ARS 13-1303: Unlawful Imprisonment

Our legal team at Grand Canyon Law Group can tell you more about the charges and similar accusations for disorderly conduct, aggravated assault, and criminal damage.

What are the Penalties for Domestic Violence Convictions?

The penalties for a conviction for domestic violence will vary based on the specific charges you face. In many cases, these convictions can result in fines, jail time, probation, community service requirements, and orders to attend anger management classes.

Our team will need to review your situation before we can explain the specific penalties you may face.

Can I Get Into a Diversion Program After a Domestic Violence Arrest?

Diversion programs are available for some individuals facing domestic violence charges under Arizona law. These programs allow individuals to seek treatment instead of facing a conviction. Successful completion of a program will result in the dismissal of the charges you face.

Click to contact our Criminal Defense Lawyers in Mesa today

Talk to Us About Building Your Defense in Mesa, AZ

Our Mesa domestic violence attorneys are ready to fight on your behalf after an arrest. Our team at Grand Canyon Law Group believes in putting clients first and standing up for your rights.

We can discuss your misdemeanor or felony charges when you turn to us for help. We’ll use our training, experience, and resources to develop a personalized strategy to handle your defense.

Learn more by reaching out now and discussing your case with a member of our team.

Call or text 480-400-5555 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form