Domestic violence doesn’t just apply to spouses fighting one another. This crime’s victims can also include:
- in-laws
- a roommate
- a girlfriend or boyfriend
- a grandparent; a parent; a grandchild; brother; sister; step parent; or step child.
Non-Violent Domestic Offenses
In Phoenix and throughout the state of Arizona domestic violence offenses aren’t necessarily deemed violent, but because there is some form of relationship between the victim and defendant, this crime still falls under one of the following domestic violence legal categories:
- assault
- criminal trespass and criminal damage
- disorderly conduct
- harassment
- kidnapping
- threat or intimidation
Violent Domestic Offenses
Domestic actions which are considered violent include:
- assault or aggravated assault
- child, vulnerable adult, or emotional abuse
- cruelty to animals
- custodial interference
- dangerous crimes against children
- endangerment
- interference with judicial proceedings
- negligent homicide, manslaughter, or murder
- preventing use of a telephone in an emergency or false representation of an emergency
- sexual assault
- stalking
- surreptitiously photographing, videotaping, filming, or digitally recording or viewing
- unlawful imprisonment
- use of telephone to terrify, intimidate, threaten, harass, annoy or offend
The Variance in Phoenix Arizona Penalties
Penalties in Arizona for a domestic violence offense depend on the type of offense which has been committed. All domestic violence convictions require completion of a state mandated counseling program. If the underlying offense is a misdemeanor, people may be sentenced up to time served in a county jail. If someone is convicted of a class one domestic violence misdemeanor, they could serve up to six months in prison – which is actually a pretty harsh sentence for a misdemeanor. First time domestic violence offenders are likely told to report to some sort of supervised probation and counseling. If domestic violence involves stalking or a repeated harassment type of complaint, offenders can be served with a “stay away or restraining order,” and if children are present, then Arizona Child Protective Services will be heavily involved.
Why a Domestic Violence Attorney Is Necessary
In Phoenix if you are accused of a domestic violence offense, the trouble you will experience in trying to prove your innocence will be very stressful, plus it could cause you severe consequences which could drastically impact the rest of your life and the lives of those closest to you. Not only can you be jailed, but you will be given probation, fines, and counseling, all of which could make you lose your job or other important rights, like guardianship. It is very important to speak with an experienced and skilled Phoenix domestic violence defense lawyer who will fight for your rights and your livelihood.
One Stop, Full Service Phoenix Law Firm
The law offices of Jason Lamm have successfully represented people in countless domestic violence felony cases. When you are being accused of any crime, you want lawyers who are tenacious and aggressive fighting on your behalf, just like The Phoenix Criminal Attorney.
Contact us today if you have been charged with domestic violence in Phoenix.