Phoenix Animal Cruelty Attorney

Accused of Animal Cruelty? Contact a Lawyer at Suzuki Law Offices

Under Arizona law, animals are protected just as humans are. Animal neglect and animal cruelty are both looked on as very serious crimes in our state. If you are facing criminal charges for any form of animal abuse, it is crucial that you speak with a Phoenix criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

There are two basic types of animal cruelty: passive and active. Passive cruelty applies when people fail to provide care for an animal. Most people who commit these crimes receive warnings or citations. In certain cases, the person may be charged with a misdemeanor or felony, warranting the immediate representation of a criminal lawyer.

Passive animal cruelty may include any of the following offenses:

• Unauthorized release of animals
• Unlawful public sale of an animal
• Leaving a pet's wounds or illness untreated
• Failing to provide water or food to an animal
• Providing unsanitary living conditions for a pet
• Lack of concern for a pet's well being
• Providing inadequate shelter for an animal

Active animal cruelty is generally much more violent and deliberate. People who are arrested for these crimes generally are considered for psychological evaluation, as these behaviors are often early warning signs for psychopathic behavior. Depending on the specific offense, punishments may range from six months in jail and a $500 fine to up to 7 years imprisonment.

Crimes considered to be active animal cruelty include:

• Presence at a dog or rooster fight
• Conducting a dog or rooster fight
• Interference with service animals
• Cruel and inhumane confinement of a farm animal
• Unnecessary killing of an animal
• Torture of an animal
• Bestiality 

Contact a Phoenix Animal Cruelty Defense Lawyer