South Tucson Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

Whether a family member has made false accusations against you or an argument got out of hand and you made a terrible mistake, you have the right to defend yourself when facing criminal charges. 

There may not be a formal domestic violence charge, but offenses can receive domestic violence designations, which could have a devastating impact on your case. It is imperative that you present a compelling defense strategy if you hope to avoid the fallout of a conviction.

Working with a highly skilled South Tucson domestic violence defense lawyer from Suzuki Law Offices could give you the edge you need to secure an acquittal. Having 30+ years of combined trial experience and a passion for protecting the rights of the innocent and the accused, our firm’s experience and dedication to our clients are unmatched. 

Schedule your free consultation with a respected South Tucson violent crimes lawyer from our firm today and learn more about how your life could be affected by these charges and what to expect while your case moves through the criminal justice system.

What a Domestic Violence Designation Means

The state of Arizona does not have formal charges for domestic violence. However, certain types of criminal offenses can receive domestic violence designations, which could have an adverse impact on the outcome of your case. Essentially, any act of violence among household members or those who could be considered family members could be grounds for a domestic violence (DV) designation, such as:

• Anyone who lives together
• Anyone who shares a child
• Children and parents
• Current and former spouses
• Romantic or intimate sexual partners

Your South Tucson criminal defense lawyer may be able to challenge whether the domestic violence designation applies based on your relationship with the alleged victim. With these designations, enhanced penalties could apply, such as increased jail time, fines, or potentially being placed on probation. We will know more after our team has completed our intensive investigation. 

The Prosecutor Must File Charges Before Time Runs Out

In Arizona, domestic violence charges must be filed within the statute of limitations, as required under ARS § 13-107. This statute establishes a legal deadline for prosecutors to initiate charges and ensures cases are filed within a reasonable amount of time after the alleged domestic violence offense. For misdemeanors, the statute of limitations is generally one year, while most felony charges must be filed within seven years.

The statute of limitations is designed to protect defendants from facing criminal charges after significant time has passed, which could lead to unreliable evidence, faded memories, or lost witnesses. If the prosecutor fails to file charges before the statute of limitations expires, the case is typically barred from proceeding. This means the judge will likely dismiss your case, even if there is substantial evidence. 

Expect a Restraining Order to be Taken Out Against You

If domestic violence allegations are made against you, you should expect a restraining order under ARS § 13-3602 to soon follow. Also called protective orders, if a restraining order is taken out against you, you will be required to stay away from those individuals named in the order of protection. You may be shocked to learn that your children could be named in this restraining order as well.

One of your legal advocate’s primary duties is to help you understand how to defend yourself against false domestic violence accusations since even the mere accusation could severely disrupt your daily life. You could be barred from returning to your home, maintaining a relationship with your children, or spending quality time with your family. In addition, your reputation could be seriously affected by domestic violence accusations.

Working with a South Tucson domestic violence defense attorney from Suzuki Law Offices, who has extensive experience handling domestic violence allegations, may be your best option. Our team may be able to challenge the restraining order. With powerful supporting evidence, we may be able to get your protective order dismissed.

Prepare to Follow the Requirements of the Restraining Order

Your South Tucson domestic violence defense attorney will ensure you understand what is required of you if a restraining order is taken out. This legally binding court order must be followed, or you could face further penalties. In many restraining orders, you will be required to remain a specified distance away from the individuals named in the protective order.

You will also be prohibited from contacting them in any way. You should not reach out to the subject of the protective order through social media, text, phone calls, emails, or other third parties. Additional stipulations may apply depending on the circumstances of your case.

Violations Carry Criminal Penalties  

If you are accused of violating a protective order under ARS § 13-2810, criminal charges may apply. You could be charged with a class one misdemeanor. If convicted, you could pay fines of up to $2,500 and spend as much as six months in jail.

With a criminal conviction on your record, opportunities may pass you by. You may find it difficult or impossible to find gainful employment or affordable housing with a DV conviction on your background check. This could destroy both your personal and professional reputation.

Click to contact our South Tucson Violent Crimes Lawyers today

Trust Your Case to a Respected Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer in South Tucson 

Domestic violence charges are some of the most serious allegations you can face. Not only could you be looking at time behind bars, but with a DV conviction on your record, your reputation may be in ruins. 

If you hope to protect your career, relationships with family and friends, and future, do not trust your defense to an overworked and underfunded public defender who is incapable of giving your case the attention it deserves.

Turn to a trial-proven domestic violence defense attorney in South Tucson from Suzuki Law Offices as soon as possible. Our firm can begin reviewing the state’s evidence against you to determine which approach is most likely to return a favorable outcome. Fill out our online contact form or call our office to schedule your confidential consultation today and get home to your family sooner.

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