Posted on May 15, 2017 in Crime,Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence Statistics in Arizona

Domestic violence is a serious problem around the country, especially in Arizona. The state defines domestic violence as a criminal act of abuse that’s committed by any “family or household member.” There are many types of crimes that may be considered domestic violence offenses, as long as there is a qualifying victim. Phoenix domestic violence lawyer Craig Orent explains that the crimes can be mental, emotional, physical, financial, or by neglect.

Examples of Domestic Violence Crimes

Some examples of crimes that may constitute domestic violence:

• Criminal trespassing
• Assault and battery, with or without a dangerous weapon
• Threatening
• Kidnapping
• Witness intimidation
• Disorderly conduct

Domestic violence may be considered a misdemeanor under Arizona law. When you’ve been charged with your third domestic violence charge in a seven-year period, however, it becomes elevated to aggravated domestic violence, which is a felony.

Domestic Violence Statistics in Arizona

Domestic crimes are unfortunately more common than you might think. Consider these disturbing statistics:

• Every three days, someone dies as the result of domestic violence in our state.
• Approximately 1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime. Despite popular opinion, there is also plenty of domestic violence committed against men – about 1 in 7 will suffer some sort of abuse.
• At least 125 people died as the result of domestic violence homicide in Arizona in 2013.
• Nationally, the costs of intimate partner rape, stalking, and physical assault total $8.3 billion each year.
• In Arizona, safe housing continues to be the most urgent need for domestic violence survivors. On a randomly selected day in 2013, there were 143 unmet requests for housing.
• In 2016, there were nearly 29,000 calls to state and local domestic abuse hotlines.
• The average length of a stay in the emergency shelter in Arizona is 40 days.
• One in three women in Arizona is considered a battered woman.
• 90% of children who are living in a home with domestic abuse are aware of it.
• 35% of those children experience abuse themselves.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

If you or someone you know has been a victim of domestic violence, there are actions you can take to keep safe. Victims of domestic violence have the following options for recourse:

• Seek a Personal Protection Order (PPO). Arizona offers two types of restraining orders: emergency protection orders and permanent orders of protection.
• An Emergency Order of Protection is designed to protect those who are in immediate danger. These last until the end of the business day on the day they’re issued.
• A Permanent Protection Order offers a longer-term solution. They may last up to one year or longer. You’ll have to go to court for a hearing in order to obtain this type of order.
• There are no fees for filing or serving a restraining order.

Where to Go for Help

Arizona has several agencies and nonprofits that work to help victims of domestic abuse lead safer lives. Contact one of the following agencies for more information:

• The Arizona Coalition to End Domestic Violence
• Arizona Sheriffs’ Departments
• National Domestic Violence Hotline

Victims of domestic violence can connect with legal assistance, get free emergency shelter, and job assistance services by connecting with one of these agencies. No one should have to live with domestic abuse, and one of these organizations can help.

Contact the Domestic Violence Lawyers at Orent Law Offices In Phoenix To Get Legal Assistance Today

For more information, contact the domestic violence attorney Craig Orent. Give us a call at (480) 656-7301 or visit our law office at 11811 N Tatum Blvd UNIT 3031, Phoenix, AZ 85028. We offer a free case evaluation, so get the help you deserve today.