Arizona Revised Statutes § 12-1809 Injunction Against Harassment

Arizona Revised Statutes § 12-1809 establishes the procedures and enforcement mechanisms for obtaining an injunction against harassment in Arizona. The statute allows a person, or in the case of a minor, a parent or guardian, to file a verified petition in any Arizona court seeking an order prohibiting harassment, including harassment committed through electronic communication, and permits third-party petitions when the plaintiff is unable to file personally. The court may issue an ex parte injunction upon finding reasonable evidence of harassment within the preceding year, or a risk of great irreparable harm; and the injunction may restrain complaint, proximity, or other conduct necessary to protect the alleged victim and specifically designated persons. Filing fees are prohibited, service fees may be waived or deferred, and additional protections apply when the petition arises out of sexual violence. A defendant is entitled to one prompt hearing upon request, after which the court may modify, quash, or continue the injunction, which generally remains effective for one year after service. Violations are enforceable through arrest and criminal prosecution, and peace officers are authorized to arrest based on probable cause. The statute also mandates confidentiality of sensitive information, centralized registration of injunctions, victim notification by law enforcement, and clarifies that these remedies are cumulative and separate from domestic violence protective orders.