In 2016 alone, nearly 29,000 phone calls were made to Arizona domestic violence hotlines, information lines, and referral lines. Additionally, more than 7,400 adults and children received shelter and transitional housing as they worked to escape the snare of domestic violence. While these statistics are staggering, the thousands of Arizona residents who remain in abusive situations is even more unfortunate.
As an experienced Tucson domestic violence attorney, John Dorris and his team can help you explore the legal protection options you have to keep you and your children safe. To request a free consultation, contact our office today. In the meantime, read on to learn more about Arizona protective orders.
Arizona Protective Orders
What Is a Protective Order?
The intended purpose of obtaining a protective order in Arizona is to secure legal protection from another person who is abusing or harassing you. There are two types of protective orders:
- Order of protection. This type of order is filed when you are seeking protection from an immediate family member, someone that you currently live with, or someone that you have lived with in the past.
- Injunction against harassment. This type of order may be filed if you need legal protection against someone who is not an immediate family member or someone with whom you live.
Both of these protective orders are governed by Arizona Revised Statutes. To view more detailed information about each type of order, you may reference A.R.S 13-3602 and A.R.S. 12-1809.
What Purpose Does it Serve?
Once you have a legal protective order against an individual, he or she cannot legally come near your home, place of employment, school, or any other locations specified on the order. The protective order also provides individuals with a means of recourse against the abusive or harassing party if he or she violates the order.
It is important to note that neither an order of protection or an injunction against harassment are designed to resolve disputes between tenants and landlords, and they do not change existing custody and visitation orders. While protective orders are designed to protect your safety, it is also important to remember that they cannot prevent an abusive person from violating the terms of the order. This means that, even with a protective order in place, petitioners must always be aware of their surroundings to ensure their safety.
How Can You Obtain a Protective Order?
While filing procedures will vary by jurisdiction, you can locate information and forms through the Arizona Courts’ website. You do not need a Tucson domestic violence attorney to help you with the process of petitioning the court for a protective order. However, working with one can help ensure the process goes as quickly and smoothly as possible, and it can help you with potential court proceedings if the defendant violates the order.
Tucson Domestic Violence Attorney
Are you ready to take the first step in protecting yourself and loved ones from being subjected to further abuse? If so, then contacting a knowledgeable Tucson domestic violence attorney is critical to understanding what legal rights and options you have. The Dorris Law Group stands ready to provide you with the compassionate representation you deserve in your time of need. Call us at 520-622-4866 today to speak with a friendly member of our firm.
