People every day are affected by domestic violence. Some individuals do not recognize they are in an abusive relationship others are afraid to leave. For those who question: what is domestic violence? Am I a victim? How do I know? Or, what do I do? This article will provide Arizona specific answers; so, you can know there is hope for all who are affected by domestic violence.
Family Law
New Rule Designed to Be More Fair to Servicemembers
Dividing pension benefits in any divorce can provoke tension and bitterness. It is a painful subject with servicemembers and spouses at odds over who gets what. Of course, some couples can come to an amicable agreement on dividing retirement benefits, but more often the division is a hotly contested issue.
Read more: Dividing Military Pensions in Divorce: The Rules Have Changed
Yes, Arizona is a community property state. There are a total of nine community property states in the U.S. The other 41 follow the common law, and are sometimes called “equitable distribution” states.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes all same-sex marriages without regard to a Veteran’s state of residence. There are a variety of benefits and services dependent up a Veteran’s marital status including benefits for a ‘surviving spouse.’ The VA is encouraging all Veterans in same-sex marriages who believe they are entitled to benefits but were previously denied, based on a ground related to their marriage, to apply for benefits. If you have questions to fill out a form, call 1-800-827-1000. For more information, go to http://www.va.gov/opa/marriage/
What is a protective order?
A protective order – often also known as a restraining order – is an order from a court of law forbidding a person from committing a specified act. Violation of a protective order may result in both civil and criminal charges.
Military Family Care Plans
Although appearing in the statutory section regarding modifying custodial provisions (now called “legal decision-making” and “parenting time”), the legislature has thought about Arizona's service members in divorce and paternity cases and modification proceedings that involve children.
Read more: Statutory Provisions – Arizona's Service Members in Family Law Litigation
If you are the victim of domestic violence or fear you may become the victim of domestic violence, you can file for an order of protection. An order of protection is a legal document that commands the person who has caused the domestic violence to stay away from the victim.
What is domestic violence?
Arizona Revised Statute 13-3601 describes Arizona’s domestic violence law. Did you know that disclosing nude photos without the pictured person’s consent is not only against the law, but could also be considered domestic violence, depending on the relationship between the people? Domestic violence encompasses more than just physical abuse. A person can also be found guilty of domestic violence by threatening violence or emotionally abusing another person. In order to have an act categorized as domestic violence, there must be a relationship between the perpetrator and the victim, such as marriage or former marriage, current or previous sexual relationship, or relation by blood, marriage or court order.