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An Order of Protection is like a lock on a door—it can’t erase the threat, but it creates a barrier that gives you time to rebuild safety.
Domestic violence impacts over 200,000 Arizonans annually, with only 34% of incidents reported (Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 2025). This guide breaks down how Orders of Protection work, their legal power, and how to navigate the system to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Under A.R.S. §13-3601, domestic violence includes physical, emotional, or digital abuse committed by someone in a close relationship with the victim. Examples:
Physical: Hitting, shoving, or destroying property to intimidate.
Emotional: Threats, stalking, or controlling access to money or transportation.
Digital: Harassment via texts, social media, or unauthorized sharing of private images.
Case Example:
After ending a toxic relationship, Jenna received 50 threatening texts daily. Her ex-partner also posted her address online, urging strangers to “check on her.” Arizona courts classified this as domestic violence, granting her an Order of Protection.
Who Can File: Victims in immediate danger (e.g., active threats, recent assault).
Duration: 7 days (covers weekends/holidays when courts are closed).
Process: Law enforcement contacts an on-call judge, who approves the order if evidence supports the claim.
Duration: Up to 2 years, renewable if threats persist.
Key Provisions:
No contact via calls, texts, or third parties.
Surrender of firearms within 24 hours.
Stay-away orders for homes, workplaces, or schools
Maria’s husband threatened to kidnap their children if she left. Here’s how she secured protection:
Documentation: Saved voicemails and photos of bruises.
Filing: Used Arizona’s AZPOINT portal to submit a petition.
Hearing: A judge approved a 2-year order barring contact and granting her custody.
Enforcement: When her husband violated the order by waiting outside her job, police arrested him under A.R.S. §13-3602.
Proof of Abuse: Texts, emails, medical records, photos, or witness statements.
Safety Tip: Use a trusted friend’s phone or computer to avoid digital tracking.
Online: Use AZPOINT for faster processing.
In-Person: Visit your local courthouse (e.g., Mesa Municipal Court).
Cost: Free for survivors.
Prepare: Write a timeline of incidents and bring copies of evidence.
Outcome: Orders are typically granted if the judge finds “reasonable evidence” of harm.
Service: Law enforcement delivers the order to the abuser.
Penalties for Violations: Fines up to $2,500, 6 months jail time, or felony charges for repeat offenses.
Despite court orders, 1 in 5 abusers in Arizona retain firearms (AZCourts, 2024).
Solution:
Request a weapons check during hearings.
Report non-compliance to the police immediately.
Abusers may manipulate finances or isolate victims from support networks. Solution:
Include financial provisions in orders (e.g., temporary child support).
Seek help from local shelters like Sojourner Center in Mesa.
Moving out of Arizona? The Full Faith and Credit Act requires all U.S. states to honor your order. Update your address in court filings to avoid jurisdictional gaps.
Act Quickly:
Document incidents and file promptly.
Document Everything:
Evidence strengthens your case.
Lean on Resources:
From AZPOINT to local shelters in Mesa, like Sojourner Center, help is available.
If you’re in immediate dange,r call 911 or reach out for legal guidance at Moon Law Firm located in Mesa.
Can I get an Order of Protection without pressing criminal charges?
Yes—civil orders focus on protection rather than criminal punishment.
What if I can’t afford a lawyer?
Arizona offers free legal aid through organizations like Community Legal Services.
Does the order apply to my pets?
Yes—Arizona courts can include pets to prevent retaliation or harm.
Can the abuser contest the order?
Yes, but you’ll receive notice and can present evidence at a hearing.
How do I renew an expiring order?
File a renewal request 30 days before expiration, showing ongoing risk.
Guiding Families. Protecting Futures. Advocating for You.
