Initial appearance court (Intake, Transfer and Release)
The first court date after an arrest, within 24 hours. Release conditions, including any no-contact order, are set here.
2670 S. 28th Dr., Phoenix, AZ 85009
Scottsdale aggravated domestic violence defense
Aggravated Domestic Violence Lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ
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Most DV arrests in Scottsdale stay on the misdemeanor calendar at 75th Street. Yours may not. When the State counts earlier DV offenses inside an 84-month window, often old Scottsdale City Court cases, it can charge the new allegation as aggravated domestic violence, a felony that can carry jail time that must be served before probation is even possible.
We can help. Nova Law Group was built by a former Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutor. We prepare every case as if it is going to trial, and we take a meticulous, aggressive approach, fighting from every angle, because the report is only one side of the story.
Talk to us before you talk to anyone else. Call (480) 405-6767. Consultations are free and confidential, and the earlier we are involved, the more we can do.
FounderRyan TaitFormer Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutorMeet Ryan →★ 5-star reviewsFormer felony prosecutorAvailable after hoursFlat fee on most criminal casesFree, confidential consultation
Aggravated Domestic Violence Lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ
When a Scottsdale DV report leaves the city system
First court date
Within 24 hours of an arrest. On a felony, release conditions are set at the jail court, 2670 S. 28th Dr. in Phoenix.
Misdemeanor
The Scottsdale City Attorney's Prosecution Division brings it in Scottsdale City Court, 3700 N. 75th St.
Felony
The County Attorney brings it in Superior Court in downtown Phoenix, 201 W. Jefferson St. or 175 W. Madison St.
Other agencies
A DPS or Sheriff's case can be assigned to a county justice court, such as McDowell Mountain Justice Court.
The first hour looks like any Scottsdale DV call: officers separate the people involved and take statements, and the city's Family Advocacy Center page assigns domestic violence follow-up to the department's Crimes Against Persons Section. The records check is what changes things. A misdemeanor DV charge stays with the City Attorney's Prosecution Division, but enough earlier DV convictions send the report to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office, whose Family Violence Bureau handles domestic violence prosecutions.
The first hearing moves as well. The Sheriff's Office says Scottsdale handles first appearances for city charges itself; a county charge is heard at the Initial Appearance Court, 2670 S. 28th Dr., Phoenix, within 24 hours of arrest, and the alleged victim may attend or send a written statement. A DV release order has to include terms shielding the alleged victim (A.R.S. § 13-3601(I)), usually no contact.
Old judgments carry the felony. The County Attorney's DV protocol, its cover marked revised 2015, has the Family Violence Bureau require certified sentencing documents for each conviction, with usable fingerprint records. Scottsdale City Court releases its records on written request, online or on its form but never by phone, including certified copies and, where one exists, an audio CD of the hearing. We order them ourselves, since a docket printout and a signed judgment can differ.
If the County Attorney declines the felony, the protocol routes the submittal to the city prosecutor to weigh misdemeanor charges, which means 75th Street again. If it proceeds, an indictment or preliminary hearing brings it to Superior Court downtown: the Central Court Building, 201 W. Jefferson St., or the South Court Tower, 175 W. Madison St. Confirm the building on your current notice. No justice court sits in between.
The law
A.R.S. § 13-3601.02, piece by piece
Aggravated domestic violence is a DV offense plus a history. Under § 13-3601.02(A), it covers a person who, within 84 months, commits a third or later DV violation, or is convicted of one with DV convictions already on record. Out-of-state, federal and tribal cases qualify when the conduct would be a DV offense in Arizona.
The underlying offenseThe term borrows its meaning from § 13-3601 (§ 13-3601.02(G)), which lists offenses including assault, criminal damage, harassment and stalking, and requires a covered relationship: spouses past or present, a shared household now or before, a child in common, a pregnancy by the other party, certain relatives and in-laws, or a current or former romantic or sexual partner (§ 13-3601(A)).
Offense dates controlThe window runs on commission dates, in any order, and the same series of acts yields only one counted violation (§ 13-3601.02(D)).
Misdemeanors from 1999 onA misdemeanor DV prior counts only for an offense committed on or after January 1, 1999 (§ 13-3601.02(E)).
The offense is class 5 under § 13-3601.02(F). With two qualifying priors, no probation, pardon, commutation, suspended sentence or other release is available until four months of jail have been served (§ 13-3601.02(B)). Three or more priors double that floor to eight months under § 13-3601.02(C). On a first felony, A.R.S. § 13-702(D) puts class 5 prison at .5 to 2.5 years, presumptive 1.5. Justified self-defense is not domestic violence (§ 13-3601(B)).
Aggravated Domestic Violence Lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ
Where an aggravated DV case can come apart
Every prior gets its own review
Each one needs a listed offense, a covered relationship, a date inside the window and a separate episode, and a tribal, federal or out-of-state case must line up with an Arizona DV offense. The old plea form and hearing audio show what was admitted. If one prior falls away, the felony may go with it.
Set-aside and sealed cases count
A set-aside conviction may be used as a prior conviction (A.R.S. § 13-905(E)), and sealed records may be alleged as an element of a new offense (A.R.S. § 13-911(B)), though each must still qualify under § 13-3601.02.
The new incident stands alone
The underlying offense still has to be proved. The 911 audio, police video, texts and photos can contradict the first report, and justified self-defense or a relationship outside § 13-3601(A) takes the DV label away.
Release terms bind you now
No contact means no contact until a judge says otherwise. Under § 13-3967(G) a defendant may ask for review of release conditions, after reasonable notice to the county attorney and the victim. Your lawyer makes that request; the protected person and any go-between stay out of it.
The record outlasts the sentence
Avoiding jail is not the same as avoiding a conviction. A felony conviction, until the right is restored, and DV probation, while it lasts, make a person a prohibited possessor in Arizona (A.R.S. § 13-3101(A)(7)(b), (d)). Federal law bars firearms after a conviction punishable by more than a year and after a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1), (g)(9); § 921(a)(33)). A crime of domestic violence is a deportation ground (8 U.S.C. § 1227(a)(2)(E)(i)), and sealing a class 5 felony waits five years after the nonmonetary terms are done and the court discharges the person (A.R.S. § 13-911(E)).
The law
Sources: Arizona statutes and Cornell Law School
Each legal point on this page can be checked against these texts.
- § 13-3601.02, aggravated domestic violence (azleg.gov)
- § 13-3601, DV offenses, relationships and release terms (azleg.gov)
- § 13-3601.01, treatment after a DV conviction (azleg.gov)
- § 13-702, sentencing a first felony (azleg.gov)
- § 13-3967, setting and reviewing release conditions (azleg.gov)
- § 13-905, effect of a set-aside (azleg.gov)
- § 13-911, sealing case records (azleg.gov)
- § 13-3101, who is a prohibited possessor (azleg.gov)
- 18 U.S.C. § 922, unlawful firearm possession (Cornell LII)
- 18 U.S.C. § 921, misdemeanor crime of domestic violence defined (Cornell LII)
- 8 U.S.C. § 1227, deportable noncitizens (Cornell LII)
- Wex: domestic violence (Cornell LII)
The charges
Felony DV defense from a former prosecutor
Nova Law Group was built by Ryan Tait, a former Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutor. The practice is criminal defense first. We keep caseloads deliberately low, which means the lawyers on your case have time to actually watch the video and read the reports line by line. Here that means reading the old Scottsdale judgments too, not only the new report. We take cases to trial when trial is the right pressure. Overcharging happens, and a case that is genuinely prepared for trial changes the conversation with the prosecutor. Most criminal cases are quoted as a flat fee. Consultations are free and confidential.
Former felony prosecutorBuilt by a former Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutor.
Low caseloadsTime to watch the video and read the reports line by line.
Ready for trialA case prepared for trial changes the conversation with the prosecutor.
Flat feeMost criminal cases are quoted as a flat fee. Consultations are free and confidential.
Our office
Meet us on Camelback Road
Office: 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Meetings are by appointment.
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Resources
Scottsdale courts and official links
Where a Scottsdale case is heard depends on the charge and the agency. Some courts are in Scottsdale and some are in Phoenix. Each card has directions and the official website, so you can check details before you go.
Scottsdale City Court
City misdemeanors, from arraignment to trial. Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
3700 N. 75th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251Scottsdale City Court, protective orders
Takes petitions for orders of protection on weekdays. That case runs on its own track, separate from the criminal case.
3700 N. 75th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251Scottsdale City Attorney, Prosecution Division
Decides whether a city misdemeanor is charged and how it is resolved. Phone 480-312-2710.
Cases heard at 3700 N. 75th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251Maricopa County Superior Court, downtown
Felony cases prosecuted by the County Attorney. Confirm the building on your current notice.
Central Court Building, 201 W. Jefferson St., and South Court Tower, 175 W. Madison St., Phoenix, AZ 85003McDowell Mountain Justice Court
A misdemeanor reported by DPS or a Sheriff's deputy can be assigned to a county justice court like this one. Your citation names the court.
18380 N. 40th St., Suite 130, Phoenix, AZ 85032Laws cited on this page
- A.R.S. § 13-3601, Domestic violence; definition; classification; sentencing option; arrest and procedure for violation
- A.R.S. § 13-702, First time felony offenders; sentencing; definition
- A.R.S. § 13-905, Setting aside judgment of convicted person on discharge; application; release from disabilities
- A.R.S. § 13-911, Sealing of arrest, conviction and sentencing records; requirements; fee; appeal; definition
- A.R.S. § 13-3101, Definitions
- A.R.S. § 13-3601.02, Aggravated domestic violence; classification; definition
- A.R.S. § 13-3601.01, Domestic violence; treatment; definition
- A.R.S. § 13-3967, Release on bailable offenses before trial; definition
Common questions
Scottsdale aggravated domestic violence questions
They can. Nothing in § 13-3601.02 limits priors to felonies, so a DV conviction from city court may be counted. Each one needs a listed offense, a covered relationship and an offense date within 84 months of the new allegation, and a misdemeanor counts only for an offense committed on or after January 1, 1999. The City Court records are where we check each point.
Usually not, once the felony is the booking charge. Per the Sheriff's Office, Scottsdale keeps first appearances only for city charges, and county charges are heard on 28th Drive within 24 hours of arrest. If the paperwork still shows a city DV misdemeanor while the priors are being checked, that first hearing may be on 75th Street. Send us any booking details you have.
It can return to the city. Under the County Attorney's protocol, a felony submittal the office does not charge goes to the city prosecutor, who decides whether misdemeanor charges fit. For a Scottsdale Police report, that is the Prosecution Division and Scottsdale City Court, where a DV conviction still requires an offender treatment program (A.R.S. § 13-3601.01(A)) at the person's own cost (§ 13-3601.01(C)).
Not on its own. Criminal charges are brought by the State, and the prosecutor decides whether to continue. The alleged victim may be heard, starting at the initial appearance, but does not decide the result. While a no-contact term is in place, do not discuss the case with that person, in person, online or through family or friends. A release term causing real hardship is something your lawyer can ask the court to revisit.
Aggravated Domestic Violence Lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ
Before the priors are proved, call us
Call (480) 405-6767. When someone close to you is in custody awaiting the county's first hearing, or a no-contact order has you living elsewhere, a phone call is faster than the form.
Nova Law Group, PLLC, 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., by appointment.
Client reviews
Hear What Our Clients Say
From our Google reviews, plus Yelp and Avvo. These are clients’ own words, reproduced from our review profiles.
★★★★★
“These guys are the best attorneys in all of Arizona. It is definitely the most professional group of lawyers… I recommend this firm!”
★★★★★
“Sydney was extremely thorough regarding every single detail of my criminal case… it ultimately resulted in a clear and powerful win for my case.”
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“They fought tirelessly for my case and helped me achieve a favorable outcome. Exceptional service and results.”
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“The firm provided me with the most professional legal representation possible. Mr. Ryan Tait patiently explained… beyond my expectations.”
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“The best law firm that I have ever dealt with. The amount of passion & commitment that they dedicated for my case… truly what separated them from other law firms.”
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“Oh my goodness, our lawyer Ryan Tait was amazing. He does what he says he’s going to do. A very patient lawyer… He’s a miracle worker.”
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“Ryan Tait was amazing and really helpful. I would recommend him.”
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★★★★★
“Alexis Brooks was my lawyer… She was extremely professional yet down to earth and always made me feel at ease and confident in my case. I would definitely recommend her for anyone that needs an excellent defense attorney.”
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“Spectacular representation! Sydney was very compassionate, diligent and professional. I can’t recommend enough.”
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“…Ryan and his team are kind, understanding, and very good listeners. Each member of his team was well educated, knowledgable and very professional.”
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“We hired Mr. Tait to handle a legal affair for a member of our family. It was a complex criminal case that required over two years of work! Through the entire effort, Mr. Tait kept us informed…”
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“My family hired Ryan Tait to fight for my family member… He went over all the pros and cons. He answered all our questions and calls. He knows what he is doing.”
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“Excellent lawyers… and their honesty, and they helped me even though I do not live in Arizona.”
Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Reseñas de clientes
Lo que dicen nuestros clientes
De nuestras reseñas en Google, además de Yelp y Avvo. Son las palabras de nuestros clientes, tomadas de nuestros perfiles de reseñas y traducidas del inglés.
★★★★★
“Son los mejores abogados de todo Arizona. Sin duda es el grupo de abogados más profesional… ¡Recomiendo esta firma!”
★★★★★
“Sydney fue sumamente minuciosa con cada detalle de mi caso penal… al final, eso resultó en una victoria clara y contundente para mi caso.”
★★★★★
“Lucharon incansablemente por mi caso y me ayudaron a lograr un resultado favorable. Servicio y resultados excepcionales.”
★★★★★
“La firma me brindó la representación legal más profesional posible. El Sr. Ryan Tait me explicó con paciencia… más allá de mis expectativas.”
★★★★★
“La mejor firma de abogados con la que he tratado. La pasión y el compromiso que dedicaron a mi caso… es lo que realmente los distinguió de otras firmas.”
★★★★★
“¡Dios mío, nuestro abogado Ryan Tait fue increíble! Cumple lo que dice que va a hacer. Un abogado muy paciente… Hace milagros.”
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★★★★★
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★★★★★
“Ryan Tait fue increíble y de gran ayuda. Lo recomendaría.”
★★★★★
“Si busca un despacho que de verdad se preocupe por usted y haga que una situación difícil sea menos estresante, esta es su gente… Alexis fue mi abogada, y fue una verdadera bendición.”
★★★★★
“Alexis Brooks fue mi abogada… Fue sumamente profesional y a la vez sencilla, y siempre me hizo sentir tranquilo y seguro con mi caso. Sin duda la recomendaría a cualquiera que necesite una excelente abogada defensora.”
★★★★★
“¡Representación espectacular! Sydney fue muy compasiva, diligente y profesional. No puedo recomendarla lo suficiente.”
★★★★★
“…Ryan y su equipo son amables, comprensivos y saben escuchar. Cada miembro de su equipo demostró estar bien preparado, con conocimiento y gran profesionalismo.”
★★★★★
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★★★★★
“Excelentes abogados… y su honestidad y eso que me ayudaron que yo no vivo en Arizona”
Los resultados anteriores no garantizan un resultado similar.
Talk to a Scottsdale criminal defense lawyer
If you have been arrested, charged, or contacted by a detective in Scottsdale, the decisions you make in the first few days matter. We defend misdemeanors in Scottsdale City Court and the justice courts, and felonies in Maricopa County Superior Court downtown.
Free, confidential consultation: (480) 405-6767
Prefer not to call? Send us your case details and a member of our team will follow up with you.
Scottsdale courts
- Scottsdale City CourtMisdemeanors prosecuted by the Scottsdale City Attorney. Free parking in front and in the Civic Center garage.3700 N. 75th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251Court website Directions
- McDowell Mountain Justice CourtSome DPS and Sheriff's Office cases. Your citation names the court.18380 N. 40th St., Suite 130, Phoenix, AZ 85032Court website Directions
- Maricopa County Superior CourtFelonies, at the downtown criminal court complex.Central Court Building, 201 W. Jefferson St., and South Court Tower, 175 W. Madison St., Phoenix, AZ 85003Court website Directions
Our office: Nova Law Group, PLLC, 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., by appointment. Directions
Hable con un abogado de defensa penal en Scottsdale
Si lo arrestaron, lo acusaron o un detective lo contactó en Scottsdale, las decisiones que tome en los primeros días importan. Defendemos delitos menores en la Corte de la Ciudad de Scottsdale y en las cortes de justicia, y delitos graves en la Corte Superior del Condado de Maricopa en el centro de Phoenix.
Consulta gratuita y confidencial: (480) 405-6767
¿Prefiere no llamar? Envíenos los detalles de su caso y un miembro de nuestro equipo se comunicará con usted.
Cortes de Scottsdale
- Corte de la Ciudad de ScottsdaleDelitos menores que procesa el Fiscal de la Ciudad de Scottsdale. Estacionamiento gratuito al frente y en el garaje del Civic Center.3700 N. 75th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251Sitio de la corte Cómo llegar
- Corte de Justicia McDowell MountainAlgunos casos del DPS y de la Oficina del Sheriff. Su citación indica la corte.18380 N. 40th St., Suite 130, Phoenix, AZ 85032Sitio de la corte Cómo llegar
- Corte Superior del Condado de MaricopaDelitos graves, en el complejo penal del centro.Central Court Building, 201 W. Jefferson St., and South Court Tower, 175 W. Madison St., Phoenix, AZ 85003Sitio de la corte Cómo llegar
Nuestra oficina: Nova Law Group, PLLC, 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. De lunes a viernes, de 8:00 a.m. a 6:00 p.m., con cita previa. Cómo llegar
RecognitionReconocimientos
Awards and ratingsPremios y calificaciones
Awards and ratings reflect the standards of the organizations that issue them. They do not predict the outcome of any case.Los premios y las calificaciones reflejan los criterios de las organizaciones que los otorgan. No predicen el resultado de ningún caso.