Domestic Violence Lawyers in Scottsdale, Arizona Helping Clients with Domestic Abuse Cases
Many people who are involved with family conflicts that include abuse can have feelings of fear and stress about coming forward with the charges. Their abusive situation can make them feel unworthy of the time and effort required to take legal action, such as getting a protective order. Victims of abuse sometimes worry about what the consequences will be for the person they are bringing to court, as these allegations can stay with the perpetrator for a lifetime. For a person who is wrongfully accused of spousal abuse or child abuse, the charges can come as a shock and leave the individual wondering what legal options they have. Charges of domestic violence may lead to difficulty in the future, such as trouble finding a job and struggling with social life. With so many important decisions and potentially harmful results, you need legal advice from family law attorneys who know how to listen to your needs and get you the results you want. You don’t need to worry alone or live in fear. Our compassionate domestic violence attorneys will listen carefully to you; they understand what you’re going through, and they know how to help. Call us today for a consultation at 623-777-3909.
What Does Arizona Law Consider to Be Domestic Violence?
What constitutes domestic violence in Arizona is an important thing to understand before undertaking any legal action regarding abuse within the household. While the actions of the perpetrator are important, what is even more critical under Arizona law is whether the individuals involved were related. This does not mean they have to be family members; those who live together, such as roommates or people in a romantic relationship, can also be involved in this legal issue. Actions of domestic violence can fit within a wide range of categories, including sexual harassment, physical harm, emotional and psychological abuse, and threats of harming another individual.
When courts give a ruling on domestic abuse, they look not only at the supposed abusive acts but also at the closeness between the supposed abuser and victim. This can be a key part of a case when you are defending yourself against allegations of abuse. It is a sad fact that many cases involve family members who are merely angry at a spouse or parent, and the defendant has not committed any actual crimes. However, Arizona takes domestic violence cases seriously and will take into account all accusations from the victim against their abuser. Should the defendant be found guilty, the consequences are considerable and can stay with them throughout their lives. A conviction can have effects on their social life and on their ability to get a job. There can also be consequences for the family, with possible loss of custody and visitation rights. With such life-changing issues on the line, you need to have a domestic violence lawyer on your side to protect your rights whenever you are involved in such a serious case. The family law attorneys at The Sampair Group will listen to you and make sure you get the justice you deserve.
What are the Results of Charges of Domestic Violence in Arizona?
Arizona law takes a serious stance against domestic violence in any form. A person charged with this serious crime can expect to face time in jail, fines, and potentially years’ worth of probation. The amount of fines, jail time, and probation depend on the seriousness of the abuse. For example, the court may analyze the degree of harm done to the victim, including whether they were shoved, slapped, bitten, kicked, or hit in any way. More serious physical injuries such as attempted strangulation or broken bones can even result in felony charges. Should you be convicted of these charges, you can face severe consequences that can follow you for a lifetime. A domestic violence conviction can prevent you from finding employment in the future, not to mention separating you from your children and otherwise hampering your social life. Many people don’t realize that convicted abusers are also considered “prohibited possessors,” meaning the FBI will monitor any attempt to obtain a firearm and prevent you from ever purchasing a weapon.
When loved ones find out what the consequences of a conviction will be, oftentimes they decide to drop the charges. However, once the process of litigation has begun, the state will continue to investigate domestic violence claims regardless of the desires of the victims. If you or a loved one has been accused of domestic abuse, you should proceed with the case only with an experienced domestic violence defense attorney who can help you reclaim your dignity and protect you as much as possible from any unjust convictions. Call The Sampair Group today to find out how our domestic violence lawyers can help you.
Is there any way to Lessen the Sentencing for Domestic Violence?
Harassment against children and or another family member is a serious offense in Arizona. But some conditions can lead to a court looking more kindly on your case if you are charged with domestic violence. These mitigating factors can make a huge difference, as you may face gentler sentencing like lower fines or less jail time, or maybe even no conviction at all. Some factors the court may consider are:
- If you have a history of mental illness
- Your age
- If you have a history of performing community service or if you commit to a community service program
- If you don’t have a previous criminal record
- If you have performed military service
- If you make positive contributions to the family
- If you have goals for higher education and a career
Sometimes, sentencing can be lessened if an individual agrees to pursue a program known in Arizona as “diversion.” This is similar to probation and can include counseling, fees, and classes. Diversion programs must be followed through to completion, or the participant can get kicked out with no allowances for do-overs or second chances. Many people choose diversion as a better alternative to lengthy jail stays. Whatever your sentencing, you should have an attorney fighting for you to get the right results for you.
Should You Hire an Attorney for your Domestic Violence Case?
If your household is facing the violence of an abusive family member, it can be frightening to come forward and seek your legal options. But you may be entitled to a restraining order for your protection and that of other family members. On the other hand, if you have an emergency order filed against you and are facing charges of domestic violence, you need someone fighting for your interests. Whichever side of you find your family on, having a domestic violence attorney can make all the difference in finding justice. Our highly trained family law lawyers know how to get results in the courts. We also understand what you’re going through, and we will be sure to listen carefully to your thoughts and needs at every step of the way. Act now to get the protection and justice you need by calling 623-777-3909 to make an appointment for a consultation with the attorneys at The Sampair Group.