Tempe Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

When you are accused of domestic violence, it can be one of the most difficult experiences of your life. You may be worried about how these charges will affect your reputation or your relationships with close friends and family members. Fortunately, your Tempe domestic violence defense lawyer from Suzuki Law Offices has been defending clients with dedication and unmatched skill since 2007.

Our team understands what is at stake when you are facing domestic violence allegations. We are here to help you challenge these charges and protect your future. Connect with our Tempe violent crimes lawyer now, or contact our office today to request a confidential case review.

How Domestic Violence Charges Work in Tempe, AZ

In Arizona, domestic violence is not charged as a standalone offense but rather as a designation applied to specific crimes. This designation can be added to charges such as assault, stalking, or harassment when the alleged offense involves a qualifying relationship between the parties. 

Your Tempe criminal defense lawyer can help determine whether the charges against you warrant a domestic violence designation.

The Elements of a Domestic Violence Designation

For a domestic violence designation to apply, the offense must involve a specific type of relationship between the accused and the alleged victim as described by ARS § 13-3601. Qualifying relationships include spouses, former spouses, co-parents, or individuals in a romantic or sexual relationship. The alleged crime must also involve acts such as physical harm, threats, or harassment.

The relationship element is crucial in determining whether the domestic violence tag applies. For example, an assault between two strangers would not qualify, but an assault involving a spouse or co-parent could. We will carefully evaluate the facts of your case to determine whether there are any issues with the alleged relationship.

Penalties for a Tempe Domestic Violence Conviction

Domestic violence convictions in Arizona can result in a wide range of penalties depending on the specific charges and circumstances of the offense. Misdemeanor offenses typically carry less severe penalties, such as fines, probation, or short-term jail sentences. 

Felony offenses, however, may lead to lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and other long-term consequences under ARS § 13-707 and ARS § 13-801.

Assault With a DV Designation

Assault with a domestic violence designation occurs when someone intentionally causes physical harm or threatens harm to another person within a qualifying relationship. A misdemeanor assault conviction can result in up to six months in jail, fines of up to $2,500, and mandatory completion of domestic violence counseling.

If you are facing these charges, your Tempe sex crimes lawyer will be prepared to challenge the evidence against you or take other necessary steps to safeguard your freedom. 

Stalking With a DV Designation

Stalking with a domestic violence designation involves intentionally following or harassing someone in a way that causes fear for their safety. Under ARS § 13-2923, Arizona law defines stalking as a serious offense, particularly when it targets someone with whom the accused shares a domestic relationship.

 A misdemeanor stalking conviction can result in penalties such as jail time, fines, and probation, while felony stalking charges, especially those involving repeated threats or violations of protective orders, carry harsher penalties.

Unlawful Imprisonment With a DV Designation

Unlawful imprisonment with a domestic violence designation involves restraining or confining someone against their will in a domestic relationship. This charge can arise from incidents where someone prevents a partner, spouse, or co-parent from leaving a location or restricts their freedom of movement. Under ARS § 13-1303, Arizona classifies unlawful imprisonment as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the severity of the allegations.

A misdemeanor conviction for unlawful imprisonment can result in up to six months in jail, fines, and mandatory counseling. If the offense involves threats, physical harm, or a violation of a protective order, it may be charged as a felony. Felony convictions carry much harsher penalties, including years of imprisonment and long-term consequences such as the loss of many of your civil rights.

You May Also Have a Restraining Order Taken Out Against You

Restraining orders are common in domestic violence cases and are designed to protect the alleged victim while the case is pending. Under ARS § 13-3602, these orders can impose strict restrictions on your actions and affect many aspects of your life. If a restraining order is issued against you, you may face one or more of the following restrictions:

• You cannot contact the alleged victim directly or indirectly through phone calls, messages, or third parties.
• You may be required to leave your shared home, even if your name is on the lease or mortgage.
• You must stay a certain distance away from the victim’s home, workplace, or school.
• You may be required to surrender any firearms in your possession and prohibited from purchasing new ones.
• Temporary changes to child custody or visitation rights may be imposed, which could limit your access to your children.
• You may be prohibited from entering the victim’s workplace or contacting their colleagues.
• You may be ordered to attend domestic violence intervention programs, anger management classes, or counseling sessions.

Violating a restraining order is a serious offense under ARS § 13-2810, which can lead to additional criminal charges, fines, and even jail time. Your Tempe domestic violence defense attorney with Suzuki Law Offices can help you challenge the restraining order if it was improperly issued. We may also be able to defend you against allegations of violating it. 

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Connect with a Respected Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer in Tempe to Challenge the Accusations Against You

If you were accused of domestic violence, the impact on your life can feel devastating. These allegations can strain your relationships, affect your reputation, and lead to severe legal consequences. Your domestic violence defense attorney in Tempe from Suzuki Law Offices understands how overwhelmed you must be feeling and is here to help you rebuild your life.

With decades of experience defending clients against serious domestic violence charges, our firm is committed to protecting your rights. We will evaluate the details of your case, challenge the evidence against you, and work to achieve the best possible outcome. Fill out our online contact form anytime or call us 24/7 to schedule your confidential consultation as soon as today.

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