ARS 13-1301: Definitions
The complete text of A.R.S. § 13-1301 on definitions, and how this section is used in Arizona criminal cases. It defines terms and procedure rather than creating an offense.
As Seen On
Recognized By
Full Text of A.R.S. § 13-1301
A.R.S. § 13-1301 is the Arizona statute on definitions. It defines terms used throughout the criminal code, so no offense class or sentence attaches to this section on its own.
In this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:
1. “Relative” means a parent or stepparent, ancestor, descendant, sibling, uncle or aunt, including an adoptive relative of the same degree through marriage or adoption, or a spouse.
2. “Restrain” means to restrict a person’s movements without consent, without legal authority, and in a manner which interferes substantially with such person’s liberty, by either moving such person from one place to another or by confining such person. Restraint is without consent if it is accomplished by:
(a) Physical force, intimidation or deception; or
(b) Any means including acquiescence of the victim if the victim is a child less than eighteen years old or an incompetent person and the victim’s lawful custodian has not acquiesced in the movement or confinement.
Source: Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-1301, Arizona Legislative Council revision of 09/19/25. Read the official text on azleg.gov. Statutes change; verify the current version before relying on it.
Related Statutes in Chapter 13 — Kidnapping And Related Offenses
- A.R.S. § 13-1303 — Unlawful imprisonment
- A.R.S. § 13-1304 — Kidnapping
- A.R.S. § 13-1305 — Access interference
- A.R.S. § 13-1306 — Unlawfully obtaining labor or services
- A.R.S. § 13-1307 — Sex trafficking
- A.R.S. § 13-1308 — Trafficking of persons for forced labor or services
- A.R.S. § 13-1310 — Abduction of child from a state agency
How § 13-1301 Affects an Arizona Case
§ 13-1301 usually matters because of how it interacts with the charge someone is actually facing. We read it alongside the charging statute, because a definition or a procedural rule frequently decides what the State must prove, what a judge may impose, or what relief is available afterward.
Call 623-321-4699 for a confidential consultation, 24/7.
Awards & Recognition
Our recognition for Phoenix criminal defense defense is independently verified, click any award to confirm it:
- National Trial Lawyers Top 100
- National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40
- Elite Lawyer 2026 – Criminal Defense
- Super Lawyers – Southwest
- National College for DUI Defense (NCDD)
When you are looking for the best Phoenix criminal defense lawyers, these are the independently verified credentials that matter, earned by Founding Attorney Michael Tamou and a full team of attorneys, including former prosecutors, public defenders, and law enforcement.
What Clients Say About Tamou Law
Real Google reviews from clients we have defended across Phoenix and Maricopa County. Every review is from a criminal defense client, never padded with non-legal work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is A.R.S. § 13-1301?
A.R.S. § 13-1301 is the Arizona statute on definitions. It sets out rules that apply across Arizona criminal cases rather than defining a single offense.
Where can I read the official text of § 13-1301?
The Arizona Legislature publishes it at azleg.gov, in the revision dated 09/19/25. The complete text is reproduced on this page, and every Arizona criminal statute is searchable on our Arizona Criminal Code index.
Two Arizona Offices, One Team
We serve all of Maricopa County and the surrounding area, with free, confidential consultations 24/7 by phone and in-person meetings at either office by appointment.
Case Results Disclaimer: The results described on this page are based on specific facts and circumstances and do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome in any future case. Every case is different. Past results do not guarantee future results. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this page or submitting a contact form until a written fee agreement has been signed. Tamou Law Group, PLLC is licensed to practice law in the State of Arizona. This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.






