questions & answers

Question: I am an Indian residing in Phoenix on work visa. I was assaulted by another Indian. I shifted to her house and just after 2 days she assaulted me on domestic matter, as she was the primary lease holder and my name was not on lease , i had to move out after she called the cope. I want to press charges against her.

Answer: As a victim of domestic violence, there are many resources available to you. First, AZLawHelp.org has a page that lists resources by county available here (http://www.azlawhelp.org/articles_info.cfm?mc=5&sc=35&articleid=97). As a resident of Maricopa County, there is an article available here (http://www.azlawhelp.org/articles_info.cfm?mc=1&sc=4&articleid=85) that describes how to contact the police and file reports of violence, as well as how you can find emergency shelters and counseling services here in the valley. It also provides information on obtaining orders of protection, or restraining orders, to prevent future contact and violence. Secondly, assault charge can generally be criminal and/or civil charges. The local prosecutor decides which cases to file criminal charges on, based on reports made to local police and law enforcement. When reporting a crime the police can provide information on which prosecutor’s office to contact. To discuss pressing charges for the alleged assault and/or eviction as a civil suit, you may contact an attorney directly (http://www.azlawhelp.org/articles_info.cfm?mc=5&sc=36&articleid=151).