If you have been accused of domestic violence in Arizona, one of the first questions you may have is how long the charge will remain on your criminal record. A domestic violence conviction has serious legal and personal consequences, making it vital to understand the charges and how to respond.
Here is an overview of what you should know about how long domestic violence charges and convictions can stay on your record in the state.
Domestic Violence Is Not a Standalone Charge in Arizona
Arizona law does not treat domestic violence as a single offense. Instead, it is a legal designation that can apply to many crimes if the alleged victim has a qualifying relationship with the accused. These include spouses, partners, family members, roommates, and others.
Common underlying offenses include:
- Assault
- Disorderly conduct
- Threats and intimidation
- Harassment
Since domestic violence attaches to the underlying offense, the impact on your record will ultimately depend, in large part, on how the charge is resolved. The sooner you hire a qualified attorney, the better your chances of receiving a favorable outcome in your case.
How Long Do Domestic Violence Charges Stay on Your Record?
If you are charged with a domestic violence offense, it can appear on a background check. Unless you take further action, a conviction could stay on your record permanently.
Recent changes in the law allow some individuals to request that their conviction be set aside or have their record sealed. A set-aside is the dismissal of a conviction, but the conviction is still accessible to the public. Sealing a record keeps a conviction from being viewable to the general public. Whether you qualify for one or both of these options will depend on the nature of your offense and your criminal history, among other factors.
It’s strongly advised that you contact a criminal defense lawyer for help regarding your particular case, as the law is quickly evolving on this topic and is complex to navigate as well.
Long-Term Consequences of a Domestic Violence Record
A domestic violence record in Arizona can lead to several significant consequences that go beyond the penalties you’re assessed in the courtroom. These are often referred to as collateral consequences, such as:
- Difficulty finding employment
- Loss of professional licenses
- Restrictions on firearm rights under federal law
- Challenges securing housing
- Immigration issues for non-citizens
- Social and family consequences
These impacts make it especially important to defend yourself aggressively against a domestic violence accusation (whether or not you’re innocent) and look into your options for setting aside a conviction or sealing your record, as discussed above.
Contact a Phoenix Domestic Violence Lawyer at Orent Law Offices for a Free Consultation
A domestic violence accusation can have lasting consequences, especially when you cannot obtain a set-aside or have your record sealed. If you are concerned about how long a domestic violence charge will stay on your record in Arizona, speaking with a knowledgeable Phoenix domestic violence attorney is the best step you can take.
Contact Orent Law Offices to schedule a complimentary consultation.
For more information, contact the criminal defense 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.
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