At Oliverson Law DUI & Criminal Defense,, our founder Attorney Derek Oliverson brings a rare combination of experience as a former judge, prosecutor, and police officer. Having presided over thousands of domestic violence cases, he understands how prosecutors think — and how to dismantle their strategy from every angle. His insight allows our firm to anticipate the State’s moves and fight aggressively for our clients’ rights.
In Arizona, domestic violence (DV) is not a single offense — it’s a classification that applies when an underlying crime involves a family or household relationship. Under A.R.S. §13-3601, domestic violence may include assault, threats, harassment, criminal damage, or disorderly conduct involving a spouse, partner, roommate, or family member.
Many people charged with domestic violence are first-time offenders, often caught in emotional situations or false accusations. Yet, Arizona law treats these cases with extreme seriousness. Even a misdemeanor DV conviction can lead to jail time, firearm restrictions, mandatory counseling, and a permanent criminal record.
Because these cases involve relationships, emotions run high. False or exaggerated claims are common — and without an experienced defense attorney, innocent individuals can face devastating long-term consequences. That’s why having Oliverson Law on your side makes the difference between clearing your name and losing your future.
Penalties for Domestic Violence in Arizona
What You’re Really Facing in Maricopa County and Across Arizona
Domestic violence penalties vary depending on the nature of the underlying offense and any prior convictions.
In Maricopa County, local judges take DV cases seriously — often imposing mandatory counseling and probation even for first-time offenders.
Here’s what you could face:
Class 1 Misdemeanor DV (Assault, Disorderly Conduct)
Up to 6 months in jail, $2,500 fine, and 3 years probation.
Aggravated Domestic Violence (Felony, A.R.S. §13-3601.02)
Charged when there are two or more prior DV convictions within 7 years.
Carries up to 2.5 years in prison and mandatory domestic violence treatment programs.
Protective Orders (Orders of Protection)
You may be immediately barred from contacting the alleged victim or returning to your home.
Firearm Restrictions
A DV conviction can permanently prohibit firearm ownership, impacting military or law enforcement careers.
Because Arizona law allows prosecutors to pursue charges even when the accuser wants to drop them, early legal intervention is critical. The sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your defense can be.
Class 1 Misdemeanor DV (Assault, Disorderly Conduct)
Up to 6 months in jail, $2,500 fine, and 3 years probation.
Aggravated Domestic Violence (Felony, A.R.S. §13-3601.02)
Charged when there are two or more prior DV convictions within 7 years.
Carries up to 2.5 years in prison and mandatory domestic violence treatment programs.
Protective Orders (Orders of Protection)
You may be immediately barred from contacting the alleged victim or returning to your home.
Firearm Restrictions
A DV conviction can permanently prohibit firearm ownership, impacting military or law enforcement careers.
Fear of Losing Freedom and Family – A restraining order or arrest can separate you from your children or partner immediately.
Confusion About the Legal Process – Arizona’s domestic violence laws are complex, and many defendants don’t know what to expect in court.
Public Embarrassment – A DV arrest can damage your reputation at work, school, or in your community.
Emotional Stress and Anxiety – Accusations often lead to depression, sleepless nights, and uncertainty about your future.
Risk of a Permanent Record – Without a strong defense, even minor charges can result in lifelong criminal consequences.
Our attorneys address these fears directly — offering clarity, communication, and personalized guidance from the very first consultation.
Case Dismissal or Reduction – We examine every detail to challenge false claims and procedural errors.
Protecting Family and Parental Rights – We fight to remove restraining orders and protect your right to see your children.
Preserving Your Reputation – We manage sensitive cases discreetly to minimize impact on your personal and professional life.
Restoring Peace of Mind – With 24/7 communication, you’ll never feel left in the dark about your case.
Securing a Second Chance – Through strategic negotiation or trial defense, we work to help you move forward with dignity and hope.
Our attorneys help you achieve these goals through relentless preparation, open communication, and personalized defense strategies.
In Arizona, domestic violence cases are prosecuted aggressively, even when the alleged victim no longer wants to move forward. Prosecutors view these offenses as serious threats that can quickly escalate into future violence — so they rarely dismiss charges once an arrest has been made.
By the time a case reaches prosecution, victims may change their statements, forgive the accused, or admit that the situation was exaggerated. However, the State of Arizona typically continues prosecution regardless of the victim’s wishes. This is because prosecutors believe dropping a case could endanger future victims or appear “soft” on domestic violence enforcement.
As a result, defendants often find themselves facing criminal proceedings even after the alleged victim has recanted or refused to testify. That’s why it’s critical to have an experienced domestic violence attorney who can identify weaknesses in the State’s evidence, challenge unlawful procedures, and protect your rights from start to finish.
Case Dismissal or Reduction – We examine every detail to challenge false claims and procedural errors.
Protecting Family and Parental Rights – We fight to remove restraining orders and protect your right to see your children.
Preserving Your Reputation – We manage sensitive cases discreetly to minimize impact on your personal and professional life.
Restoring Peace of Mind – With 24/7 communication, you’ll never feel left in the dark about your case.
Securing a Second Chance – Through strategic negotiation or trial defense, we work to help you move forward with dignity and hope.
Proven Defense Strategies That Protect Your Future
Having served as a judge, prosecutor, and police officer , Derek Oliverson understands how the other side builds their case — and how to dismantle it.
Self-Defense or Defense of Others – Proving you acted to protect yourself or another from harm.
False Allegations or Motives – Demonstrating that the accuser had ulterior motives (custody disputes, revenge, jealousy).
Lack of Evidence – Challenging weak or inconsistent witness statements, photos, or police reports.
Violation of Rights – Suppressing evidence obtained illegally or without probable cause.
Mutual Combat – Showing both parties contributed to the conflict, which may lessen or dismiss charges.
Witness Inconsistencies – Cross-examining testimony to expose contradictions or unreliable statements.
We approach every case as if it’s going to trial — preparing meticulously, negotiating strategically, and fighting relentlessly for the best outcome.
When you’re accused of domestic violence, experience matters. At Oliverson Law, you’re not hiring a single attorney — you’re gaining the strength of an entire team.
30+ Years of Combined Experience
Former Judge, Prosecutors, and Police Officer on staff
24/7 Accessibility — call, text, or email us anytime
Free, No-Obligation Consultation
Offices in Tempe, Phoenix, Gilbert, and Kingman
Our firm has successfully represented thousands of clients across Arizona, earning top honors from:
American Academy of Trial Attorneys (Premier 100)
National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys (Top Ten)
National Association of Distinguished Counsel (Top 1%)
Clients describe our team as “calming in a dark time” and “responsive day and night.”
30+ Years of Combined Experience
Former Judge, Prosecutors, and Police Officer on staff
24/7 Accessibility — call, text, or email us anytime
Free, No-Obligation Consultation
Offices in Tempe, Phoenix, Gilbert, and Kingman
American Academy of Trial Attorneys (Premier 100)
National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys (Top Ten)
National Association of Distinguished Counsel (Top 1%)
Attorney Derek Oliverson has presided over thousands of domestic violence cases — as a former judge, prosecutor, and police officer.This rare combination of experience gives him unmatched insight into how the State builds its case and how to counter it effectively.
His leadership ensures every client receives aggressive, knowledgeable representation , and that their constitutional rights remain fully protected .
Law enforcement agencies across the state are required to investigate these incidents thoroughly, as family-related offenses often escalate quickly if not handled decisively.
One or more individuals may be injured, threatened, or intimidated, and in some cases, multiple family members are involved. Because of this, officers often make an arrest on the spot to ensure safety and prevent further harm.
§13-3601(B) , Arizona law authorizes police to arrest a person with or without a warrant if they have probable cause to believe a domestic violence offense has occurred — even if it did not happen in their presence. This means that once police respond, an arrest is likely , and formal charges often follow soon after.
Early intervention can prevent errors, preserve your rights, and shape the outcome of your case. Call (480) 582-3637 for immedia
As previously noted, it is absolutely vital that you hire an attorney who possesses the necessary experience and skills to get you the best possible case result. According to Arizona Revised Statute (“ARS”) 13-3601, in addition to emotional, physical, and psychological abuse, “domestic violence” includes acts, such as:
What you can expect when you hire our team.
Over the length of their careers, the attorneys at Oliverson Law DUI & Criminal Defense have helped thousands of people successfully fight their criminal charges.
This special insight allows them to better defend your case.
Our attorneys will work closely with you, diligently keeping you fully informed and updated on your case from beginning to end.
At Oliverson Law DUI & Criminal Defense, you get access to three experienced attorneys who work together to achieve the best possible result for you.
When you hire Oliverson Law, you don’t get one attorney — you get a team with courtroom experience from every angle of the criminal justice system.
Derek Oliverson served as presiding judge for Page Magistrate Court and Glendale City Court, overseeing 40,000+ cases annually. He knows how judges evaluate evidence, weigh arguments, and make sentencing decisions.
Our attorneys prosecuted criminal cases across Arizona. They know exactly how the State builds its case, what evidence it relies on, and where the weaknesses hide.
With law enforcement experience in Henderson, NV, our team knows police procedures, arrest protocols, and field sobriety testing — and how to challenge every step.
Criminal charges don’t wait for business hours. Our team is available around the clock — call, text, or email any time and get a response fast, not days later.
Yes. In Arizona, prosecutors can move forward with a case even if the accuser withdraws the complaint. The state, not the individual, controls prosecution.
Penalties depend on the severity of the allegations. Our attorneys often negotiate reduced charges , counseling alternatives , or dismissals for first-time offenders. Convictions can appear on background checks and may affect professional licenses or immigration eligibility. That’s why early intervention is vital.
Do not try to contact the alleged victim. Federal and Arizona laws prohibit firearm ownership following a domestic violence conviction — one more reason to fight your charges aggressively. The sentence for domestic violence in Arizona depends on the class of the offense: a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months in jail, a Class 6 felony up to 1.5 years in prison, a Class 5 felony up to 2.5 years, and a Class 4 felony up to 3.75 years.
Common charges include assault, criminal damage, disorderly conduct, harassment, elder abuse, and spousal abuse. Even misdemeanors can carry serious consequences when labeled as domestic violence under ARS §13-3601.
Physical proof and credible documentation significantly strengthen a defense
From college students in Tempe to families in Kingman, we proudly defend individuals across Maricopa County and beyond.
Our attorneys understand local court procedures, judges, and prosecutors — giving you a valuable edge in every stage of your defense.
We believe in second chances. No matter how serious the charge, you deserve a strong defense, fair treatment, and respect.
North Mountain Village, Phoenix, AZ
Ahwatukee Foothills Village, Phoenix, AZ
Camelback East Village, Phoenix, AZ
South Mountain Village, Phoenix, AZ
Award-Winning Criminal Defense Firm
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Former judge, prosecutor, and police officer fighting for your rights. Call now for a free, confidential case evaluation. Available 24/7.
Former judge, prosecutor, and police officer fighting for your rights. Free, confidential case evaluation. Available 24/7.
