Domestic violence charges in Apache Junction are often more complex and more serious than other misdemeanor assault charges. If you are facing a domestic violence charge, it’s important that you work with an attorney who understands the local Apache Junction police procedures. He will help you understand these charges and will create a customized legal plan for you to help you move forward.
What constitutes domestic violence charges in Arizona?
In Arizona, the definition of domestic violence is clear. The act of domestic violence has occurred if a family member, spouse or member of the household abuses another individual in that same family or household. In Arizona, domestic violence charges extend beyond physical contact and aggression. Domestic violence also can constitute emotional, verbal or sexual abuse. It also is considered to be domestic violence if an individual exerts complete economic control over another individual in the household, or if they neglect a member of the household.
Some examples of domestic violence charges in Arizona include assault and battery, disorderly conduct, threatening, intimidating or kidnapping, to name a few. It is important to note that victims of domestic violence are not able to drop the charges. Once you have been charged with domestic violence, you will be subject to a thorough and aggressive legal battle.
What to expect during the legal process
If you are facing domestic violence charges in Apache Junction, you need to prepare for an intense legal battle. Given the sensitive nature of domestic violence charges and the impact that domestic assault can have on its victims, the Arizona courts are particularly aggressive when dealing with these charges. The exact legal journey that you can vary based on the circumstances of your charges. In many cases, the person who has been charged with domestic violence will first be arrested and may be subject to a cooling off period while in jail. If bond is posted, the individual is often released but is required to adhere to strict guidelines in terms of their future contact with the victim.
Those who are facing domestic violence charges often have to reappear for a future court date. Some domestic violence cases go to specific courts that specialize in this type of law. It is important to have a qualified criminal defense attorney on your side to advocate for you during this complex situation.
How to defend yourself against the charges
Knowing that domestic violence charges can be difficult to defend, it’s critical that you hire an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows how to handle this specific situation. There are several defenses that can be used against domestic violence charges in Apache Junction, including:
- Your attorney can claim that the incident was unintentional, and that you did not mean to injure or abuse the victim.
- Your attorney can state that your actions were taken in self-defense.
- Your attorney can claim that the accusations against you are untrue, and that evidence shows that the alleged incident never occurred.
- Your attorney can counter the extent of the damage caused by the incident, and that the victim is exaggerating the injuries or impact of the incident.
The impact of a domestic violence conviction
While a domestic violence charge in Apache Junction is serious, a conviction can have dire consequences that can have an impact on your daily life for years to come. If convicted on a domestic violence charge, your sentence can vary significantly based on the circumstances of the alleged incident and the defense strategy that your attorney utilizes in the case. Some individuals receive probation or a personal protection order is implemented against them. In other cases, the person must face jail time.
In addition to fulfilling the sentence imposed on you by the courts, you also will find that there are additional long-lasting consequences of a domestic violence conviction. This conviction can prevent you from owning firearms in the future, and will not be able to be removed from your permanent criminal record. Knowing that the consequences of a domestic violence conviction are permanent, it’s pivotal that you work with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate through this complex situation.
