Strangulation

Experienced Arizona Criminal Defense Attorneys Aggressively Defending Clients Charged with Domestic Violence Offenses

Strangulation is one of the most aggressively prosecuted forms of alleged domestic violence under Arizona law. If you’ve been accused of this offense, you are not just facing a misdemeanor. Prosecutors frequently charge strangulation as a felony, especially when it occurs in the context of a domestic relationship. That means the stakes are high from the very beginning. You could be facing prison time, a permanent criminal record, and the loss of civil rights if convicted.

At the Law Office of James Novak, we understand how fast these cases escalate and how difficult it is to defend yourself once the accusation is made. We represent individuals across Maricopa County who are fighting serious charges related to domestic violence, including strangulation.

How Arizona Defines Strangulation in Domestic Violence Cases

Arizona law does not use the term “strangulation” as a standalone criminal charge. Instead, prosecutors often charge the act under broader statutes, such as aggravated assault under A.R.S. § 13-1204. If prosecutors believe you knowingly impeded someone’s ability to breathe or restricted blood flow by applying pressure to the neck or blocking the nose or mouth, that may qualify as assault involving serious physical injury or use of force likely to cause death.

When the alleged victim is a romantic partner, spouse, roommate, or family member, prosecutors will enhance the charge under Arizona’s domestic violence statutes. This enhancement allows the state to impose stricter penalties, longer probation terms, and additional conditions such as mandatory counseling.

Common Evidence Used in Strangulation Allegations

In domestic violence cases involving strangulation, law enforcement often responds quickly and builds a case based primarily on the statements of the alleged victim. Medical records, photographs of injuries, and police body camera footage may also play a role. You should know that injuries from strangulation are not always visible. That means someone can accuse you without any physical proof.

Police reports often refer to signs such as:

• Redness or bruising around the neck
• Hoarseness or loss of voice
• Petechiae (tiny red or purple spots) in the eyes or face
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing

Even when no medical evidence confirms those symptoms, prosecutors may rely heavily on emotional testimony to support the charge. That makes it essential to work with a lawyer who knows how to challenge subjective claims and uncover inconsistencies.

Consequences of a Strangulation Conviction

If you are convicted of strangulation as part of a domestic violence charge, the penalties are severe. A felony assault conviction can result in prison time, even for a first offense. Beyond incarceration, a conviction may result in:

• Loss of firearm rights
• A lifelong criminal record labeled as domestic violence
• Immigration consequences, including removal or denial of status
• Mandatory domestic violence classes or anger management
• Restrictions on seeing your children or returning to your home

Judges may also impose probation terms with strict supervision and regular court check-ins. The long-term impact on your personal and professional life can be devastating.

Defending Against Strangulation Allegations in Arizona

Strangulation cases often depend on one person’s word against another’s. That makes your defense strategy especially important. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you applied pressure with the intent to restrict airflow or blood circulation. In many cases, statements are made during emotional moments or under pressure from others, which can affect credibility.

At the Law Office of James Novak, we analyze every detail of the case, including 911 calls, prior interactions, witness statements, and police conduct during the arrest. We look for every opportunity to have evidence excluded, charges reduced, or the case dismissed. Your side of the story matters, and we will fight to make sure it is heard.

Talk to a Phoenix Domestic Violence Lawyer Before You Say Anything

Strangulation accusations are taken seriously by Arizona police and prosecutors. If you have been arrested or questioned in connection with a domestic violence case, do not wait to get help. The earlier you contact a lawyer, the better your chances of avoiding the harshest consequences.

Call the Law Office of James Novak today at (480) 413-1499 for a confidential consultation. We defend clients throughout Phoenix, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale, Mesa, and the greater Maricopa County area.