Why Domestic Violence Increases During the Holiday Season
Domestic violence cases generally rise across Arizona during the holiday season every year. While the holidays are meant to bring people together, they also create stress in many homes due to factors like money problems and increased alcohol use. When this stress builds up and emotions run high, arguments can turn physical much faster than usual.
Families also spend more time together during the holidays, which means old conflicts can resurface, especially in light of reduced privacy. Once law enforcement is involved, an arrest can happen quickly, as can criminal charges.
How Domestic Violence Is Charged in Arizona
Arizona does not technically have a crime called domestic violence. Instead, domestic violence is added as a label to certain criminal charges. These charges often include assault, disorderly conduct, harassment, threats, and more. The label applies when the people involved have a specific type of relationship, such as spouses and former partners.
Once the domestic violence label is added, the case becomes more serious. For example, the court can issue an order of protection against the defendant. These penalties can begin before the case is resolved and can be based on mere accusations in some circumstances.
What Happens After a Holiday Domestic Violence Arrest
After a domestic violence arrest, the accused person is usually taken into custody right away. In many cases, a judge will issue an order of protection within hours. This order may block all contact with the other person, including electronic communications and sometimes the ability to return home.
The prosecutor then decides whether to file formal charges. It’s important to note that these cases do not go away just because the other person (meaning the alleged victim) changes their mind later. Things like police reports, photos, and body camera footage can become the main evidence against you, even if that happens.
If the case ends in a conviction, the penalties can include:
- Jail time
- Probation
- Heavy fines
- Required classes
- Permanent criminal record
There may also be severe collateral consequences in addition to anything imposed by the court, such as difficulty finding housing and employment.
Why Should I Hire a Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer After a Holiday Arrest?
A domestic violence arrest during the holidays can disrupt your life in every direction at once. Your criminal defense attorney will work hard to protect your rights and challenge any weak evidence that may exist before the damage becomes permanent.
A lawyer can, for instance:
- Examine whether the arrest was lawful
- Review witness statements for inconsistencies
- Respond appropriately to one-sided police reports
- Work to modify protective orders that go too far
- Negotiate to have your charges dismissed or reduced, if possible
Holiday arrests move fast through the court system, and waiting too long to get legal help can limit your options. This means that reaching out to an attorney as soon as possible is almost certainly in your best interest.
Contact Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys for a Free Consultation
If you were arrested for domestic violence during the holiday season in Arizona, you may feel like everything is stacked against you right now. These cases carry serious consequences, and what you do next can dramatically affect your freedom and your family life going forward.
A criminal defense attorney can protect your rights right away, so reach out to Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys for a free initial consultation today.
Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys
177 N Church Ave # 900, Tucson, AZ 85701
(520) 510-0439