Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that disproportionately affects women, and Arizona has a comprehensive framework of laws, reporting mechanisms, and support services specifically designed to assist women experiencing abuse. ### **ARIZONA DOMESTIC VIOLENCE (WOMEN): LAWS, REPORTING, AND SUPPORT** **I. Understanding Domestic Violence Laws in Arizona** In Arizona, "domestic violence" is a classification that can be attached to various criminal offenses when the victim and perpetrator share a specific relationship. This means a range of abusive behaviors can be prosecuted as domestic violence. - **Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S. § 13-3601):** This statute defines the relationships that elevate a crime to a domestic violence offense, including: - Current or former spouses. - People residing or having resided in the same household. - Parents of a child in common. - One party is pregnant by the other party. - Individuals related by blood or court order (e.g., parent, child, sibling, grandparent, in-law, step-relationship). - Current or previous romantic or sexual relationships. - **Crimes that can be designated as Domestic Violence:** These include, but are not limited to: - Assault, Aggravated Assault - Threatening or Intimidating - Endangerment - Harassment, Aggravated Harassment, Stalking - Criminal Damage - Disorderly Conduct - Sexual Assault - Kidnapping, Unlawful Imprisonment - Interfering with Judicial Proceedings (e.g., violating a Protective Order) - Preventing the use of a telephone in an emergency - **Aggravated Domestic Violence (A.R.S. § 13-3601.02):** This applies to individuals who commit a third domestic violence offense within a seven-year period, making it a Class 5 Felony with significant penalties. - **Penalties:** Penalties for domestic violence offenses vary based on the underlying crime's severity (misdemeanor or felony) but often include mandatory sentencing enhancements, participation in domestic violence offender treatment programs, and limitations on possessing firearms. - **Victim Protections:** Arizona law includes provisions for victims' rights, such as the right to be present at and heard during court proceedings, notification of case developments, and restitution for damages. **II. How to Report Domestic Violence (for Women) in Arizona** Reporting abuse is a critical step toward safety and accessing support. 1. **For Immediate Danger/Emergency:** - **Call 911:** If you are in immediate danger, fear for your life, or are experiencing physical assault, call 911 immediately. Clearly state that it is a domestic violence situation. - **Text 911:** In many areas of Arizona (including Maricopa County), you can text 911 if you are unable to speak safely. 2. **For Non-Emergency Reporting or Seeking Support:** - **Arizona Sexual and Domestic Violence Services Helpline (ACESDV):** - **Phone:** **1-800-782-6400** (Statewide) - **Chat:** Available on their website. - **Purpose:** This is a confidential, statewide helpline providing support, information, and referrals to local domestic violence services, legal aid, and counseling. They can help you understand your options and connect you with resources in your area. - **Website:** [https://arizonasurvivors.org/](https://arizonasurvivors.org/) - **National Domestic Violence Hotline:** - **Phone:** **1-800-799-SAFE (7233)** - **Text:** Text **START** to **88788** - **Chat:** Via their website: [https://www.thehotline.org/](https://www.thehotline.org/) - **Purpose:** A national, 24/7 confidential resource that can provide immediate support, safety planning, and connections to local Arizona resources. - **Local Police Department (Non-Emergency Line):** Contact your local police or sheriff's department to report incidents that are not immediate emergencies but still warrant law enforcement intervention. - **Maricopa County Domestic Violence Hotline:** - **Phone:** **(480) 890-3039** or toll-free **1-844-SAFEDVS (1-844-723-3387)** - **Purpose:** This 24/7 hotline serves Maricopa County and can help with safety planning, shelter placement, and referrals to local services. 3. **Obtaining an Order of Protection:** - An **Order of Protection** is a civil court order designed to provide immediate safety. It can prohibit an abuser from contacting you, coming near your home, work, or children's school, and can address temporary child custody or the surrender of firearms. - You can initiate the process online using **AZPOINT (Arizona Protective Order Initiation and Notification Tool)**: [https://www.azpoint.azcourts.gov/](https://www.google.com/search?q=https://www.azpoint.azcourts.gov/) - Many courthouses have victim advocates or court staff who can assist you with filling out the necessary paperwork. **III. Support Services for Women Experiencing Domestic Violence in Arizona** Arizona has a robust network of shelters, advocacy groups, and legal aid organizations dedicated to supporting women and their children affected by domestic violence. 1. **Emergency Shelters and Transitional Housing:** - Numerous confidential shelters throughout Arizona provide safe housing for women and children fleeing abuse. These shelters offer not only a safe place to stay but also support services, counseling, and help with basic needs. - **Some Major Shelter/Service Providers (often with multiple locations):** - **A New Leaf:** Operates multiple shelters (e.g., Faith House, Autumn House) and provides comprehensive domestic and sexual violence services in Maricopa County. Hotline: **(480) 890-3039** or **1-844-SAFEDVS**. Website: [https://turnanewleaf.org/services/sexual-and-domestic-violence-services/](https://turnanewleaf.org/services/sexual-and-domestic-violence-services/) - **Sojourner Center:** One of the largest domestic violence shelters in Arizona, providing emergency shelter, transitional housing, and comprehensive support services in Phoenix. Hotline: **(602) 244-0089**. Website: [https://www.sojournercenter.org/](https://www.sojournercenter.org/) - **Emerge Center Against Domestic Abuse (Tucson/Pima County):** Offers a 24-hour hotline, confidential shelter, and community-based services. Hotline: **(520) 795-4266** or **1-888-428-0101**. Website: [https://emergecenter.org/](https://emergecenter.org/) - **Catholic Charities (My Sister's Place):** Provides emergency shelter and mobile advocacy in the East Valley (Maricopa County). Hotline: **(480) 821-1024**. Website: [https://www.catholiccharitiesaz.org/phoenix/domestic-violence](https://www.catholiccharitiesaz.org/phoenix/domestic-violence) - **New Life Center (Goodyear):** Provides emergency shelter and mobile advocacy in the West Valley. Phone: **(623) 932-4404**. - **Other Shelters:** The **Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES)** provides a "Domestic Violence Contracts Directory" listing many shelters and service providers across Arizona: [https://des.az.gov/services/basic-needs/domestic-violence/domestic-violence-contracts-directory](https://des.az.gov/services/basic-needs/domestic-violence/domestic-violence-contracts-directory) - **DomesticShelters.org:** You can also search for local shelters and programs by zip code or city on this national directory: [https://www.domesticshelters.org/](https://www.domesticshelters.org/) 2. **Legal Aid and Advocacy:** - **Arizona Bar Foundation - Domestic Violence Legal Assistance Project:** A statewide network of legal aid attorneys and advocates providing free legal assistance to victims of domestic violence (including women) and their children. They help with protective orders, family law matters (divorce, custody), and other civil legal issues. - **Phone (to apply for legal aid):** **1-866-637-5341** - **Website:** [https://www.azbf.org/domestic-violence-legal-assistance-project](https://www.azbf.org/domestic-violence-legal-assistance-project) - **Community Legal Services (CLS):** Offers free civil legal aid to low-income Arizonans, including domestic violence victims. They can assist with Orders of Protection and related family law issues. - **Phone:** (602) 258-3434 (Phoenix) or (520) 623-9465 (Tucson) - **Website:** [https://clsaz.org/legal-practice-areas/domestic-violence/](https://clsaz.org/legal-practice-areas/domestic-violence/) - **WomensLaw.org:** Provides free, state-specific legal information and support for survivors of domestic violence, including an email hotline for legal questions. - **Website:** [https://www.womenslaw.org/](https://www.womenslaw.org/) 3. **Community-Based Advocacy and Counseling:** - Many domestic violence organizations provide non-residential services such as: - **Safety Planning:** Helping victims develop strategies to stay safe whether they choose to stay or leave the relationship. - **Counseling and Support Groups:** Individual and group therapy to address trauma, build coping skills, and connect with other survivors. - **Court Accompaniment and Advocacy:** Support during legal proceedings, help understanding the court system, and advocating for victims' rights. - **Referrals:** Connecting victims to housing assistance, job training, childcare, and other essential resources. - **Family Advocacy Centers (FACs):** Various cities in Arizona (e.g., Phoenix, Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale) have FACs that provide a centralized location for victims of domestic and sexual violence to receive support from law enforcement, victim advocates, and other service providers. - **City of Phoenix Family Advocacy Center:** (602) 534-2120. They also have mobile victim advocates. - **Maricopa County Superior Court Domestic Violence Advocates:** Available at protective order locations to assist with the process of obtaining an Order of Protection. See Maricopa County Superior Court website for contact information. **IV. Important Considerations for Women Victims:** - **Safety Planning is Paramount:** Whether you are planning to leave or trying to stay safe within an abusive relationship, a safety plan is crucial. Helplines and advocates can help you develop one. - **Child Safety:** If children are involved, their safety is also a primary concern. Domestic violence shelters and services can accommodate children and provide resources for them. - **Confidentiality:** Most domestic violence services offer confidential support to protect your safety and privacy. - **Documentation:** Keeping a record of incidents (dates, times, descriptions, photos of injuries, screenshots of abusive messages) can be vital for legal proceedings (Orders of Protection, criminal charges, child custody). - **Pets:** Some domestic violence shelters may have arrangements for pets or can refer you to pet fostering services, as abusers often threaten pets to control victims. Inquire about this when you call. If you are a woman experiencing domestic violence in Arizona, know that you are not alone, and there are many people and organizations ready to help you find safety and healing. Reaching out is the brave first step. Here are resources for **Arizona** specifically for women experiencing domestic violence: ### **1. Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence (ACESDV)** - **Purpose**: A statewide organization that offers resources, advocacy, and support for all individuals affected by domestic violence, particularly women. - **Contact**: - **Phone**: (800) 782-6400 (24-hour Domestic Violence Helpline) - **Website**: [www.acesdv.org](https://www.acesdv.org) - **Services**: - ACESDV provides crisis intervention, safety planning, legal resources, and advocacy for women experiencing domestic violence. They can connect individuals with local shelters and support programs in Arizona. --- ### **2. National Domestic Violence Hotline** - **Purpose**: A national helpline that provides confidential support for individuals affected by domestic violence, including women, and offers resources for both immediate crisis intervention and long-term support. - **Contact**: - **Phone**: 1-800-799-7233 (1-800-799-SAFE) - **Text**: Text "START" to 88788 - **Website**: [www.thehotline.org](https://www.thehotline.org) - **Services**: - The hotline provides confidential support, safety planning, referrals to shelters, and legal help. It is available 24/7 and can assist women in finding local resources across Arizona. --- ### **3. Sojourner Center** - **Purpose**: Offers emergency shelter, legal advocacy, counseling, and supportive services for women and children experiencing domestic violence. - **Contact**: - **Phone**: (602) 244-0089 (24-Hour Hotline) - **Website**: [www.sojournercenter.org](https://www.sojournercenter.org) - **Services**: - Sojourner Center offers a range of services including emergency shelter, support groups, case management, legal advocacy, and financial assistance. It provides a safe environment for women fleeing abusive situations. --- ### **4. Chrysalis Shelter for Victims of Domestic Violence** - **Purpose**: Provides a safe haven for women and children experiencing domestic violence, along with a variety of support services. - **Contact**: - **Phone**: (520) 327-0422 - **Website**: [www.chrysalisdv.org](https://www.chrysalisdv.org) - **Services**: - Chrysalis Shelter offers emergency shelter, legal advocacy, counseling services, and educational resources for women experiencing domestic violence. They also provide transitional housing and support for women and children. --- ### **5. House of Refuge – Arizona** - **Purpose**: Provides housing and supportive services to women and children escaping domestic violence. - **Contact**: - **Phone**: (602) 347-7000 - **Website**: [www.houseofrefuge.org](https://www.houseofrefuge.org) - **Services**: - The House of Refuge offers temporary housing and support services for women and families fleeing domestic violence, including case management, safety planning, and counseling. --- ### **6. Safe Nest (Tucson)** - **Purpose**: Provides support and resources to women and children affected by domestic violence. - **Contact**: - **Phone**: (520) 327-1700 - **Website**: [www.safenest.org](https://www.safenest.org) - **Services**: - Safe Nest offers emergency shelter, counseling, legal assistance, and safety planning. They help women in need of immediate assistance, as well as long-term recovery services. --- ### **7. Arizona Women’s Education and Employment (AWEE)** - **Purpose**: Provides employment services, job training, and educational resources to women, including survivors of domestic violence, to help them rebuild their lives. - **Contact**: - **Phone**: (602) 223-4333 - **Website**: [www.awee.org](https://www.awee.org) - **Services**: - AWEE provides job training, career development services, and resources for women survivors of domestic violence who need help securing stable employment and achieving economic independence. --- ### **8. The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ+ women)** - **Purpose**: Provides support for LGBTQ+ individuals, including women, experiencing domestic violence or abuse. - **Contact**: - **Phone**: 1-866-488-7386 (24/7 Helpline) - **Website**: [www.thetrevorproject.org](https://www.thetrevorproject.org) - **Services**: - The Trevor Project offers confidential crisis counseling and support for LGBTQ+ women facing domestic violence, providing referrals and safety planning for those in need. --- ### **9. National Resource Center on Domestic Violence (NRCDV)** - **Purpose**: A national organization dedicated to providing resources and support to all victims of domestic violence, including women. - **Contact**: - **Phone**: 1-800-537-2238 - **Website**: [www.nrcdv.org](https://www.nrcdv.org) - **Services**: - NRCDV offers resources for women affected by domestic violence, including educational materials, advocacy support, and guidance on creating safe spaces for women in need. --- ### **10. Domestic Violence Shelter and Services, Inc. (Phoenix)** - **Purpose**: Provides emergency shelter and long-term support for women experiencing domestic violence. - **Contact**: - **Phone**: (602) 279-2900 - **Website**: [www.dvsas.org](https://www.dvsas.org) - **Services**: - This organization offers shelter, legal advocacy, counseling, and case management services. It provides support for women and children who are escaping abusive environments. --- ### **11. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV)** - **Purpose**: Provides advocacy, resources, and support for women experiencing domestic violence. - **Contact**: - **Phone**: (303) 839-1852 - **Website**: [www.ncadv.org](https://www.ncadv.org) - **Services**: - NCADV provides information and advocacy for women, offering resources on safety planning, legal assistance, and referrals to local services across Arizona and nationwide. --- ### **12. Women’s Crisis Center (WCC) – Arizona** - **Purpose**: Provides services and support to women and children experiencing domestic violence, including emergency shelter, advocacy, and legal assistance. - **Contact**: - **Phone**: (928) 775-0669 (24-Hour Helpline) - **Website**: [www.wccaz.org](http://www.wccaz.org) - **Services**: - WCC provides safe shelter, counseling, advocacy, and legal resources for women in Arizona. They also provide assistance in navigating the legal system and safety planning for women. --- These resources are dedicated to helping women in Arizona who are experiencing domestic violence by providing immediate assistance, safety planning, legal advocacy, and long-term support. Each organization offers tailored services to support women in crisis, including housing, counseling, and legal protection.