Injunctions against harassment can be issued quickly, often without the accused present. Once served, the order may immediately prohibit contact and require strict adherence to its terms.
The accused party has the right to request a court hearing. At that hearing, a judge decides whether the injunction should remain in effect, be modified, or be dismissed.
Deadlines apply, and missing a hearing request can allow the order to remain in place.
An injunction against harassment is different from an order of protection. Orders of protection generally involve family or domestic relationships, while injunctions apply to non-domestic situations.
Understanding the difference is important because the legal standards and consequences are not the same.
Violating an injunction against harassment can result in arrest and separate criminal charges. Even accidental contact may lead to serious legal consequences, which is why strict compliance and legal guidance are critical.
Yes. Some lower-level felonies in Arizona may be reduced to misdemeanors depending on the charge, facts of the case, and criminal history.
Early legal defense improves the chance of a reduction.
An injunction against harassment applies to non-domestic relationships, such as neighbors or coworkers. An order of protection generally involves family members, romantic partners, or household relationships. The legal standards and consequences differ, which is why understanding the distinction is important.
Anything you say can be used against you in court.
It is usually best to speak with a criminal defense attorney before answering police questions.
Yes. Criminal charges may be dismissed due to lack of evidence, procedural errors, or successful legal defenses.
An attorney can evaluate whether dismissal is possible in your case.