Domestic violence is identified in many different forms of abuse that can leave long-lasting effects on others. They are very sensitive cases and need to handled seriously and considered a crime in the state of Arizona.
There is a lot of information about domestic violence in Arizona, but here are some quick facts and frequently asked questions to help you understand domestic violence and how it is handled in the state of Arizona.
Getting information about domestic violence online may not be enough to help you no matter the severity of the case. At Killham Law Office, we recommend getting in touch with someone who knows how to handle domestic violence cases. Each domestic violence case is different from the other, and it’s important to know your options. Discussing those options with a professional will be crucial to your case.
Contact Killham Law Office at 623-239-0886 to speak with someone about your domestic violence case in Arizona.
Arizona Domestic Violence Statistics
- Every 20 minutes someone experiences domestic violence in the US. Each year that totals over 10 million people.
- It’s also reported that, in the US, 1 in every three women and 1 in every 4 men have been subject to domestic violence from an intimate partner.
- In extreme cases, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 20 men are killed as a result of domestic violence.
- Every 44 minutes a child will observe acts of domestic violence, which greatly impacts them and may even send them a path toward being victims of abuse, or abusers.
- Arizona sees over 100 domestic fatalities in a year.
- In 2017, studies show that 40% of people in Arizona are subject to some type of case revolving around domestic violence.
Find more information about these statistics here.
Most domestic violence cases involve someone who is trying to maintain control and power over another. People’s experiences with domestic violence can fit into these forms:
Forms of Domestic Violence
Each form is much different than the other but still just as damaging to a person’s mental and physical health. See the A.R.S §13-3601 law in Arizona to learn more about properly defining domestic violence. Although there are many different scenarios that fit under the umbrella term for domestic violence, many of these situations will fit under one of the three categories below:
- Physical violence
- Sexual violence
- Emotional abuse
Domestic Violence does not discriminate and can affect people of all ages, genders, societal status, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, and skin color. If you feel you have been involved in domestic violence, we are here to help.
To help understand domestic violence in Arizona, here are some frequently asked questions.
What is Physical Violence?
Physical violence is usually defined as any violent act that involves hitting, slapping, biting, and sexual. Physical violence cases, like other acts of domestic violence, can vary so it is important to contact someone to discuss your options if you are dealing with domestic violence in Arizona.
What is Sexual Violence?
Sexual violence happens when the victim is subject to sexual contact without consent from an abuser’s attempts and coerces. Sexual violence can take place in the workplace, a home environment, or other public areas.
What is Emotional Abuse?
Emotional abuse happens when the abuser attempts to undermine the victim by using fear, guilt, threats of violence, intimidation, and even financial abuse. Many of these cases attempt to compromise the victim’s sense of self-worth and self-esteem.
How Would Domestic Violence Be Reported?
If contacted, 911 will respond to a domestic violence call. When police officers arrive at the location, they will decide if the situation is domestic violence or not. From there, they will either charge the abuser with domestic violence on the spot or send the case to investigators. If the investigation proves that the case is domestic violence, it may be sent to a prosecuting attorney to be reviewed.
The Abuser Wasn’t Charged. What Happens Next?
If someone feels abuser should be charged with domestic violence, they can speak with a prosecutor about the charges. They may also speak to a qualified domestic violence attorney. Laura J. Killham had over 10 years of experience in the prosecutor’s office and can provide insight on the charges or how the prosecutors view the case.
Can Domestic Violence Charges Be Dropped?
No. Domestic violence is a crime in the State of Arizona and is taken very seriously by the court. If someone would like to discuss the nature of the domestic violence charge, they may do so with a domestic violence lawyer or a representative in the prosecutor’s office.
Does the Victim Need to Testify Against The Abuser?
Yes. The victim will need to attend the trial to testify against their abuser. Appearing in court is required if a trial is held. Testifying in front of an abuser is incredibly intimidating and frightening, for many but necessary to support a case on the domestic violence charge.
What if the Defendant is Released?
The defendant may be released from custody after an arraignment. Plaintiff’s that want to be notified of the defendant being released from custody must let someone know they want to be notified. They can contact the Jail’s Victim Notification Line at 602-876-8276 to get more information on the status of the defendant.
Additional FAQs on Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence cases vary in degrees and scenarios. Talking with a qualified representative about your options when in the midst of domestic violence charges in Arizona could make a world of difference in your case.
If you have more questions about domestic violence in Arizona, please visit this link to get your questions answered. If you still have questions, contact Killham Law Office. Laura’s experience with the prosecutor’s office can help shed light on your situation and give you an advantage in the courtroom. Call her today at 623-239-0886.
More Domestic Violence Information:
For other information about domestic violence, please refer to these other resources below:
- How Is Domestic Violence Defined In Arizona?
- Will I Be Held In Jail Without Bond In A Domestic Violence Case?
- What Should I Do Once Domestic Violence Charges Are Filed Against Me?
Killham Law Office offers a free consultation for those who need strong representation in a domestic violence case. Contact her to get more information at (623) 239-0886.
Killham Law Office is located in three cities in Arizona. Laura J. Killham serves counties all over Arizona but her main location is at 16165 North 83rd Avenue Suite 200 Peoria, Arizona 85382.
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