Florence Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

Facing accusations of domestic violence can feel like your world is crumbling around you. Fortunately, with a Florence domestic violence defense lawyer from Suzuki Law Offices, you do not need to challenge these charges on your own.

We have been advocating for the rights of the innocent and accused since 2007, so connect with a Florence violent crimes lawyer from our law firm today to schedule a case evaluation and see how we can help protect your rights and freedoms.

What to Expect After Being Accused of Domestic Violence in Florence

In Arizona, domestic violence allegations carry serious legal and social implications. These accusations can apply to a wide range of relationships, and the state’s statutes provide specific protections for victims. 

According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, there were nearly 22,000 calls to domestic violence hotlines in the state between June 2020 and July 2021. If you have been accused of domestic violence, secure representation from our Florence criminal defense lawyers.

When Domestic Violence Designations Apply

Arizona law designates certain crimes as domestic violence when they involve specific relationships. These designations apply to crimes such as assault, harassment, or stalking if the victim is a family member or has a close personal relationship with the accused. 

Below are some of the relationships protected under Arizona’s domestic violence statutes:

• Spouse or former spouse 
• Parent or grandparent 
• Children 
• Romantic partner 
• Roommates or cohabitants 

The Penalties of a Domestic Violence Conviction Are Harsh

Arizona’s domestic violence laws impose severe penalties depending on the specific crime committed. For example, a conviction for assault with a domestic violence designation (ARS § 13-1203) may result in up to 18 months in prison for a first offense and higher penalties for subsequent offenses. Similarly, a conviction for sexual assault with a domestic violence designation (ARS § 13-1406) could lead to a minimum of 5.25 years in prison and fines exceeding $150,000.

Fines, fees, and court-ordered restitution are also common. These penalties can include compensating the victim for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. It is important to note that domestic violence convictions often come with mandatory counseling or anger management classes, so do not hesitate to consult your Florence domestic violence attorney so you fully grasp the scope of the penalties you could be facing.

You May Also Be Subject to Collateral Consequences

A domestic violence conviction can result in far-reaching consequences beyond criminal penalties. For example, individuals convicted of domestic violence may lose their right to own or possess firearms under federal law. Additionally, a conviction can impact professional licenses, such as those required in healthcare or education, potentially ending a person’s career.

Restraining Orders Typically Come with Domestic Violence Accusations

If you are accused of domestic violence in Arizona, a restraining order may be issued against you to protect the alleged victim. These orders are legally binding and come with strict requirements that you must follow to avoid further severe penalties. Understanding the terms of a domestic violence restraining order is essential to protect your rights and avoid escalating legal consequences, which may include:

• You must not contact the protected party by any means, including phone calls, text messages, emails, or social media.
• You may be ordered to stay a specific distance away from the protected party’s home, workplace, or school.
• You could be required to move out of a shared residence immediately, even if you own the property.
• You may be prohibited from possessing firearms or other weapons during the duration of the restraining order.
• You must refrain from any behavior that could be considered harassment, intimidation, or stalking of the protected party.
• You might be required to attend court-ordered counseling, such as anger management or domestic violence intervention programs.

If you violate the terms of a restraining order, the consequences can be severe, and you are typically prosecuted for criminal offenses, resulting in additional charges, fines, and jail time. In Arizona, restraining order violations may also lead to more severe penalties in the underlying domestic violence case. These violations can damage your defense, making it even more important to follow all court-imposed restrictions closely.

How to Defend Yourself Against Domestic Violence Allegations in Arizona

If you are facing domestic violence allegations in Arizona, it is crucial to carefully evaluate all possible defense strategies before deciding how to proceed with your case. 

The penalties for domestic violence convictions are severe, so a strategic approach to your defense is essential. Keep in mind that you may not qualify for pretrial diversion programs, as these are typically reserved for nonviolent, first-time offenders under Arizona law.

Possible Domestic Violence Defenses at Trial

When your case proceeds to trial, several defenses could be used to challenge the prosecution’s case. The right defense strategy will depend on the specifics of your case, the evidence against you, and whether the alleged victim’s statements are credible.

A skilled Florence domestic violence defense attorney from Suzuki Law Offices can analyze the circumstances and help you choose the best approach, which could include:

• False allegations – Arguing that the alleged victim fabricated the claims due to a dispute, custody battle, or other personal motives.
• Self-defense – Demonstrating that you acted to protect yourself from harm during a confrontation.
• Lack of evidence – Highlighting insufficient or unreliable evidence to prove the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Mistaken identity – Showing that someone else committed the act and you were wrongly accused.
• Consent or mutual conflict – Arguing that the incident resulted from mutual participation or consent rather than abuse.

Plea Agreements

In some cases, the prosecutor may be willing to negotiate a plea agreement, which often involves reduced charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea. For example, a domestic violence charge could be reduced to a lesser offense, sparing you from harsher penalties. However, accepting a plea bargain requires careful consideration of its long-term consequences.

If you are not satisfied with the terms of the plea agreement or if the prosecutor is unwilling to negotiate, you still have options. You can take your case to trial, where you can fight the allegations more effectively. To learn more about when you should accept a plea bargain, explore the options with a trusted defense attorney who can help you weigh the pros and cons.

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Contact a Trial-Proven Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Florence for Help Today

Do not lose hope if you are accused of committing a domestic violence offense. With help from a domestic violence defense lawyer in Florence with Suzuki Law Offices, you can face the struggles ahead with confidence, knowing you have the support of a law firm stocked with former prosecutors. 

Complete our confidential contact form now or call our office 24/7 to schedule a confidential consultation as soon as today.

Call or text 602-682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form