If you are facing domestic violence charges in Surprise, Arizona, it is essential to secure a skilled and experienced Surprise domestic violence lawyer to defend your rights. Domestic violence charges can have life-altering consequences, including jail time, fines, the loss of child custody, and a permanent criminal record. At Tamou Law Group, led by Michael Tamou, we focus on providing aggressive defense for individuals charged with domestic violence in Surprise. With years of experience in the Arizona legal system, our firm is equipped to offer the strongest defense strategies for clients accused of domestic violence.
Why You Need a Surprise Domestic Violence Lawyer
Domestic violence cases are complex, and the penalties can be severe. A conviction can lead to long-term repercussions that affect your personal relationships, career, and civil rights. If you are facing domestic violence charges, having an experienced Surprise domestic violence lawyer by your side is crucial. Michael Tamou, the lead attorney at Tamou Law Group, has years of experience as both a prosecutor and defense attorney. His background allows him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and craft a robust defense tailored to the specifics of your case.
Tamou Law Group is dedicated to providing personalized and aggressive representation to clients accused of domestic violence in Surprise. Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges, our goal is to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.
Understanding Domestic Violence Laws in Arizona
Domestic violence is not a standalone crime in Arizona but is an enhancement that applies to other criminal offenses when they are committed between individuals who share a specific relationship. Domestic violence charges can arise from incidents between spouses, former spouses, cohabitants, romantic partners, family members, or others with close personal connections. The state of Arizona takes domestic violence cases very seriously, and even a minor offense can lead to severe penalties.
Under Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) 13-3601, domestic violence can be charged if the offense involves any of the following criminal acts committed against someone with whom the accused has a qualifying relationship:
- Assault (ARS 13-1203)
- Threatening or intimidating (ARS 13-1202)
- Harassment (ARS 13-2921)
- Disorderly Conduct (ARS 13-2904)
- Criminal damage (ARS 13-1602)
These charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies, and the penalties can vary accordingly. Working with a qualified Surprise domestic violence lawyer can help you understand the charges you are facing and develop an effective defense strategy.
Common Surprise Domestic Violence Charges
There are several types of charges that can be classified as Surprise domestic violence under Arizona law. Below are some of the most common charges associated with domestic violence in Arizona:
1. Assault (ARS 13-1203)
Assault is one of the most frequently charged offenses in Surprise domestic violence cases. It occurs when someone intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes physical injury to another person or places them in imminent fear of harm.
- Simple assault is typically charged as a misdemeanor, with penalties that may include jail time, fines, or probation.
- Aggravated assault (ARS 13-1204) involves more serious harm or the use of a weapon and is usually classified as a felony, carrying more severe penalties.
2. Threatening or Intimidating (ARS 13-1202)
Threatening or intimidating involves making verbal or physical threats to cause physical harm or damage to property. In Surprise domestic violence cases, this charge often arises from threats made during heated arguments between spouses, partners, or family members.
- ARS 13-1202 defines threatening or intimidating as any behavior that creates fear for one’s safety. This offense is often charged as a misdemeanor, but it can be elevated to a felony depending on the circumstances, such as the use of a weapon.
3. Harassment (ARS 13-2921)
Harassment involves repeated and unwanted contact or behavior that causes emotional distress to the victim. Surprise Domestic violence harassment cases often involve stalking, excessive phone calls, or other forms of intrusive behavior.
- ARS 13-2921 defines harassment as behavior aimed at harassing, alarming, or annoying another person. This offense can range from a misdemeanor to a felony depending on the severity of the behavior.
4. Disorderly Conduct (ARS 13-2904)
Disorderly conduct includes actions that disturb the peace, such as fighting, making loud noises, or using abusive language. Domestic violence disorderly conduct charges often stem from arguments or physical altercations within the home.
- ARS 13-2904 defines disorderly conduct as reckless behavior that disturbs the peace or provokes violent responses. Disorderly conduct is usually charged as a misdemeanor, but it can be classified as a felony if weapons are involved.
5. Criminal Damage (ARS 13-1602)
Criminal damage involves recklessly damaging or defacing property. In domestic violence cases, this often includes breaking household items or damaging personal property during a dispute.
- ARS 13-1602 defines criminal damage as the reckless destruction of another person’s property. Depending on the extent of the damage, the charge can range from a misdemeanor to a felony.
Consequences of Misdemeanor Surprise Domestic Violence Convictions
Even if charged as a misdemeanor, a domestic violence conviction in Arizona can have long-lasting consequences. The penalties for misdemeanor domestic violence in Arizona can include:
- Jail Time: Misdemeanor domestic violence charges can result in jail time of up to six months. First-time offenders may be eligible for probation or alternative sentencing, but repeat offenders or those convicted of more serious offenses are likely to face mandatory jail time.
- Fines: Fines for misdemeanor domestic violence convictions can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the offense and any prior convictions.
- Probation: In many cases, probation is ordered in lieu of or in addition to jail time. Probation terms can include regular check-ins with a probation officer, compliance with protective orders, and participation in court-ordered counseling or treatment programs.
- Mandatory Counseling or Classes: Many individuals convicted of domestic violence in Arizona are required to attend counseling or anger management classes as part of their sentence. These programs are designed to address the underlying causes of domestic violence and reduce the likelihood of future incidents.
- Loss of Firearm Rights: Under federal law, a conviction for domestic violence, even a misdemeanor, results in the loss of the right to own or possess firearms. This can have significant personal and professional consequences, particularly for individuals whose work involves firearms.
- Restraining Orders: A conviction for domestic violence often results in the issuance of a restraining order, also known as an Order of Protection. This order may prevent the convicted individual from contacting the victim or being near them. Violating a restraining order can lead to additional criminal charges.
- Impact on Child Custody: A domestic violence conviction can severely impact child custody and visitation rights. Arizona courts take domestic violence into account when determining the best interests of the child, and a conviction can result in supervised visitation or the loss of custody.
- Permanent Criminal Record: A domestic violence conviction remains on your criminal record, which can affect your ability to secure employment, housing, and professional licenses. While Arizona does not offer expungement, it is possible to petition to have the conviction “set aside,” which can help mitigate some of the long-term consequences.
Felony Domestic Violence and Aggravated Domestic Violence
Felony domestic violence charges are reserved for more serious cases, such as those involving severe injury, the use of weapons, or repeated offenses. Aggravated domestic violence, outlined in ARS 13-1204, occurs when an individual commits a domestic violence offense with two or more prior convictions within seven years.
Felony domestic violence convictions carry harsher penalties, including:
- Lengthy prison sentences
- Hefty fines
- Mandatory rehabilitation or counseling programs
- Permanent loss of firearm rights
- Permanent criminal record
Felony domestic violence charges can also result in the loss of civil liberties, including the right to vote and the ability to obtain certain professional licenses. Having an experienced Surprise domestic violence lawyer is critical when facing felony charges, as these cases are more complex and carry greater penalties.
The Role of a Surprise Domestic Violence Lawyer
A skilled Surprise domestic violence lawyer plays a critical role in defending against these serious charges. Domestic violence cases are often emotionally charged, and accusations may stem from misunderstandings, heated arguments, or even false claims. Your attorney will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case, gather evidence, and develop a defense strategy aimed at achieving the best possible outcome.
At Tamou Law Group, we understand the devastating impact that a Surprise domestic violence conviction can have on your life. As your Surprise domestic violence lawyer, we will work tirelessly to protect your rights and challenge the evidence brought against you. Whether negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or taking your case to trial, we are committed to providing the strongest defense possible.
Court Jurisdictions for Surprise Domestic Violence Cases
If you are facing domestic violence charges in Surprise, your case will be heard in either the Surprise Municipal Court or the Maricopa County Superior Court, depending on whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or a felony.
Surprise Municipal Court (Misdemeanor Domestic Violence Cases)
- Address:
16081 N Civic Center Plaza
Surprise, AZ 85374 - Phone: (623) 222-4800
The Surprise Municipal Court handles misdemeanor Surprise domestic violence cases. Misdemeanor cases are typically less severe but still carry significant penalties, making it essential to have an experienced Surprise domestic violence lawyer on your side.
Maricopa County Superior Court (Felony Domestic Violence Cases)
- Address:
201 W Jefferson St
Phoenix, AZ 85003 - Phone: (602) 506-3204
Felony domestic violence charges, including aggravated domestic violence, are prosecuted in the Maricopa County Superior Court. These cases are more serious and require a knowledgeable Surprise domestic violence lawyer to navigate the complexities of the legal process.
Contact Tamou Law Group for a Free Consultation
If you are facing domestic violence charges in Surprise, Arizona, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. At Tamou Law Group, we provide comprehensive and aggressive defense strategies to protect your rights and your future. As your Surprise domestic violence lawyer, Michael Tamou will work diligently to build a strong defense, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you defend against domestic violence charges. You can call us Now at 623-321-4699 for a free consultation!
