Tucson Domestic Violence Defenses

With over 20 years of experience, Elias Damianakos is dedicated to providing top-notch legal defense for those facing criminal charges in Tucson. As a former state prosecutor, he brings a unique perspective to each case, ensuring a comprehensive and strategic defense.

Tucson Domestic Violence Defense Attorney

If you’ve been accused of domestic violence in Arizona, the consequences can be serious—ranging from jail time and protective orders to permanent damage to your personal and professional reputation. But remember, a charge is not a conviction. At Damianakos Law Firm, we know how to challenge domestic violence allegations and defend your rights at every stage of the case.

Understanding Domestic Violence Charges in Arizona

In Arizona, domestic violence isn’t a standalone crime. It’s a legal classification added to various criminal charges—such as assault, criminal damage, threats, disorderly conduct, or trespassing—when the alleged victim has a domestic relationship with the accused. This includes spouses, former partners, co-parents, roommates, and certain relatives, under ARS § 13-3601.

Whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony depends on the alleged conduct and whether you have a prior criminal record.

Common Legal Defenses to Domestic Violence Charges

There are multiple strategies for defending against domestic violence accusations. Some of the most frequently used and effective include:

• Self-Defense: Arizona law allows the use of reasonable force to protect yourself from an immediate threat. If you were acting to defend yourself, this can be a complete defense to a domestic violence charge.
• Defense of Others or Property: You are also allowed to use force to protect someone else or defend your home or belongings in certain circumstances.
• Defensive Display of a Firearm: Arizona law allows for the lawful display of a firearm to deter a threat—if done in a reasonable and non-aggressive manner.
• Reasonable Parental Discipline: Parents or legal guardians may use reasonable physical discipline without it being considered criminal conduct.
• False Accusations: Domestic violence claims are sometimes fabricated or exaggerated—often during divorces, custody disputes, or emotional breakups. We examine motives, inconsistencies, and credibility.
• Alibi or Mutual Combat: If you have proof you weren’t there—or if both parties were equally involved in the altercation—this can be a powerful part of your defense.
• Lack of Evidence: The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is weak, conflicting, or missing entirely, the case may be dismissed or reduced.
• Constitutional Violations: If your rights were violated during the investigation—such as through an illegal search, unlawful arrest, or failure to read Miranda rights—we may be able to have key evidence excluded.

Why Gathering Evidence Early Matters

Domestic violence cases often come down to conflicting stories. Gathering evidence quickly—such as texts, photos, medical records, police reports, and witness statements—can make a major difference. At Damianakos Law, we work fast to protect your version of events and expose any falsehoods in the prosecution’s case.

Tucson Domestic Violence Court

Tucson City Court has a specialized Domestic Violence Court that handles these cases with unique procedures and personnel. Having an attorney who understands this local system is essential. Elias Damianakos brings that local experience—along with a background as a former prosecutor who knows how the other side operates.

Contact an Experienced Tucson Defense Lawyer

If you’re facing a domestic violence charge, your best defense starts with the right legal team. Elias Damianakos will evaluate your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and fight to get your charges dismissed or reduced.

 Those events include facts that support available defenses to domestic violence charges. There are a number of defenses available depending on the facts of the case, and the charges. Many defenses in Arizona are known as “affirmative defenses”, which means the burden is on the defendant to prove the defenses. The prosecutor then will have the burden to prove that defense does not apply.