A domestic violence charge in Tucson, Arizona, can create problems that extend beyond the criminal case. What you say to the police, how you communicate with the alleged victim, and whether you follow court-imposed restrictions can all matter while the charge is pending.
Knowing the mistakes to avoid when facing a domestic violence charge in Tucson can help you keep an already difficult situation from becoming more complicated.
Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys represents people accused of domestic violence and other criminal offenses throughout Southern Arizona. Call today at (520) 510-0439 to schedule a free case evaluation with a Tucson domestic violence lawyer.
Why Choose Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys for Help if I’m Arrested for Domestic Violence in Tucson, AZ?
Domestic violence cases in Tucson, AZ, can move quickly after an arrest. Release conditions, an Order of Protection, and the criminal charge itself may all need attention at the same time.
Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys brings the following experience and resources to these cases:
- 45 years of combined experience: Our Tucson criminal defense attorneys have decades of combined criminal defense experience.
- Criminal defense focus: We concentrate our practice on defending people accused of crimes.
- Hundreds of five-star Google reviews: Clients have shared their positive experiences working with the firm.
An accusation does not establish guilt. Our legal team can examine the circumstances behind the charge and explain the issues that may affect your defense. Reach out to us today to arrange a free consultation. Our Tucson domestic violence lawyers are here to help you.
What Mistakes Should You Avoid After a Domestic Violence Arrest?
Domestic violence is not a single stand-alone offense under Arizona law. Instead, A.R.S. § 13-3601 identifies offenses that can be designated domestic violence when the required relationship exists between the people involved.
Because the underlying allegations and relationships vary from case to case, there is no single response that works for everyone. Several mistakes, however, can create avoidable difficulties.
Trying to Explain Everything to the Police
After an arrest, you may want to tell your side immediately, particularly if you believe the accusation is false or leaves out important context. Giving a detailed statement without first understanding the allegations can be risky. Statements made during an investigation may become evidence.
Contacting the Alleged Victim When You Have Been Told Not To
A court may impose release conditions restricting contact with an alleged victim. Arizona courts consider public safety and other factors when setting release conditions, and certain felony domestic violence cases involving physical harm require no-contact conditions when the defendant is released.
Do not assume that contact is permitted because the other person initiates it. If the court has ordered you not to communicate with someone, follow the order unless and until the court changes it.
Ignoring an Order of Protection
An Arizona Order of Protection can prohibit contact with a protected person and restrict a defendant from going to specified places. Violating an Order of Protection can result in arrest and a separate criminal allegation.
Deleting Texts, Photos, or Social Media Content
A tense message thread may be uncomfortable to keep, but deleting communications after an accusation can eliminate material that could provide useful context.
Preserve relevant texts, emails, call logs, photographs, videos, voicemails, and social media communications. Keep the material in its original form when possible rather than editing screenshots or selecting only portions of a conversation.
Posting About the Case Online
Avoid discussing the alleged incident, the accuser, witnesses, or the pending case online. Even a post that seems unrelated can create questions about where you were, who you were with, or what happened.
Asking Someone Else to Contact the Alleged Victim
Using a friend or relative to deliver a message may still create problems if a court order prohibits direct or indirect contact. If communication is necessary because of children, property, housing, or another practical issue, determine what the applicable court orders permit before attempting to make contact.
Working with a Tucson domestic violence attorney from the beginning can help you avoid making mistakes that may be avoidable.
Call Our Tucson Domestic Violence Lawyers to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation Today
Small decisions made after a domestic violence arrest can have consequences for a pending case. Following court orders, preserving evidence, and being careful about statements and communications can prevent unnecessary complications while the allegations are being addressed.
Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys represents defendants facing domestic violence charges in Tucson and throughout Southern Arizona. Our attorneys can review the allegations, court orders, police reports, and other available evidence to identify the legal and factual issues involved.
If you have been accused and are unsure what you should or should not do next, schedule a free case evaluation with our Tucson domestic violence attorneys today.