What Constitutes Domestic Violence in Chandler?

The state of Arizona takes domestic violence seriously. The consequences can be devastating. However, if handled correctly, the damage can often be minimized or eliminated. It is a stressful process, but the right approach can often lead to a good result. It is imperative that you hire an experienced attorney who knows what constitutes domestic violence in Chandler and how to challenge any allegations made by the prosecution.

The attorneys at Grand Canyon Law Group are former prosecutors who know how the decision-making process goes with the office who is prosecuting your case. If you have been charged, or simply wish to learn more, schedule a consultation today.

When Would Someone Be Charged with Domestic Violence?

Unlike other crimes, there is no single offense that constitutes domestic violence. Instead, the term encompasses virtually any criminal act of abuse committed by one household member or relative against another. The parties involved might include parents, children, siblings, spouses, ex-partners, or roommates.

Almost all misdemeanor domestic violence cases are charged as: disorderly conduct, assault, criminal damage, trespassing, or some combination of these charges.

Some of the most common acts that warrant domestic violence charges include:

• Slapping, hitting, or punching
• Hair pulling
• Biting
• Choking
• Kicking
• Yelling
• Threatening

Preventing a family member or housemate from eating or sleeping could also constitute domestic violence, as could forcing substance abuse or abandoning the victim in an unknown location. Depending on the circumstances, any such conduct could result in misdemeanor or felony charges.

Potential Penalties Following a Domestic Violence Conviction

If you have been charged with domestic violence, the potential penalties you are facing depend on a variety of factors, including:

• The circumstances of the incident in question
• The role that the alleged victim played
• Your criminal history
• The strength of the evidence against you

Even if these circumstances appear to be in your favor, it is wise to consult a local attorney. Fighting domestic violence charges is inherently challenging, and there is always a lot at stake.

In addition to the applicable criminal penalties, for example, which might include jail time and fines, domestic violence defendants face:

• The loss of child custody or visitation
• A driver’s license suspension
• Court-ordered counseling
• Restraining orders
• An obligation to pay the victim restitution
• Deportation
• The loss of professional licenses and certifications
• The loss of their right to possess a firearm

Convicted offenders can also expect to face hurdles when it comes to finding housing and securing employment because they have a domestic violence-related crime on their record.

Can Domestic Violence Charges Be Dropped?

Virtually everyone has heated discussions with their loved ones from time to time. However, if charges result, there will be no way to downplay the situation.

Whether the scenario actually constituted domestic violence or was merely a yelling match that prompted the neighbors to call the police, you will have no control over the proceedings once law enforcement gets involved. Since domestic violence is a criminal matter and not a civil one, it is the prosecutor that has control over whether charges persist.

In other words, if someone calls 911 in the heat of the moment, the circumstances—and not those who are actually involved in the altercation—will determine what happens next. Individuals cannot drop domestic violence charges after they have cooled down and realized they were not actually being threatened. Once the wheels are in motion, whether the case proceeds will be up to the prosecutor. This is different than other states, and certainly different than TV in which we often hear about whether named victims want to “press charges” and seem to have complete control over whether their loved one is criminally charged.

Speak with a Chandler Domestic Violence Attorney

If you’ve been charged with a domestic violence-related offense, turn to Grand Canyon Law Group to determine the most strategic way to proceed. Attorneys David Lish and Ryan McPhie’s tenacious representation have earned them numerous accolades and awards, including a 10.0 Superb Avvo Rating and inclusion in the prestigious company of Super Lawyers®.

Call our skilled attorneys at the Grand Canyon Law Group if you have been charged with this type of offense. A lawyer familiar with what constitutes in domestic violence in Chandler could work tirelessly to get you the justice you deserve. Call today.