Domestic Violence / Family Offenses

In Arizona, the phrase “Domestic Violence” is a tag that attaches to a host of other crimes. The tag gets added on to the underlying crime based on the relationship between the people involved. For example, an argument between two strangers could be charged as Disorderly Conduct. An argument between a husband and wife could be charged as Disorderly Conduct – Domestic Violence. Crimes that can have the Domestic Violence allegation attached to them include Assault, Criminal Damage, Criminal Trespass, Interference with Judicial Proceedings (Orders of Protection,) Threatening and Intimidating, Endangerment, Harassment, Custodial Interference, Unlawful Imprisonment, Child or Vulnerable Adult Abuse, Kidnapping, and any Dangerous Crime Against Children.

In addition to mandatory classes and potential jail time, a Domestic Violence conviction requires you to give up your right to carry firearms under Federal Law. Because of these serious consequences, it is vital that you have representation to protect your rights.

Interference with Judicial Proceedings- a violation of an Order of Protection or Injunction against Harassment- is an especially difficult issue. Many times there will be an Order of Protection issued, and then the parties will reconcile without dismissing the Order. The order still exists until the Court dismisses it, and many people have been charged with a crime even though they in fact wanted to have contact with one another. Once again, it is important to make sure you have an attorney who will be able to show the State that you don’t deserve to be criminally prosecuted, as well as being able to instruct you as to what you can and cannot do if an order is issued and upheld.

You have the right to have a hearing to have a judge decide whether or not there is a legitimate basis for any Order or Injunction against you. At Wilson-Goodman and Fong, we have extensive experience defending against both Orders of Protection and Injunctions against Harassment.