Everyone wants to live peacefully in their home, but unfortunately, disputes with neighbors can sometimes escalate into troubling and dangerous situations. Often, a minor disagreement or mild inconvenience can lead to a legal battle. It’s important to know what to do when neighbor disputes turn criminal in Arizona.
Threatening a neighbor can lead to serious legal repercussions even if no physical harm occurs. Arizona law classifies certain types of threats as both misdemeanors and felonies. In Arizona, a threat does not have to be verbal; it can also be through written communication, actions, or gestures.
If an individual is convicted of threatening or intimidating in Arizona, they may face a Class 1 Misdemeanor charge that carries a sentence of up to six months in jail and fines up to $2,500. If the case has aggravating factors such as the use of a weapon, threats in the context of domestic violence, or threats made while an individual is on probation, the charges may be more severe.
Hire a Neighbor Dispute Lawyer
If a dispute with a neighbor doesn’t escalate to the level of criminal charges, you may still need to seek relief and it is crucial to have a skilled lawyer defending your rights. Harper Hall PLC has over 25 years of experience advocating for clients’ rights and de-escalating contentious situations. A neighbor dispute lawyer may provide the following services:
- Determine and investigate the facts, including witness statements, surveillance footage, related documentation, and property records.
- If a neighbor makes false accusations to gain leverage in a dispute, a lawyer can investigate and challenge these statements.
- Introduce self-defense or property rights arguments in cases where you were defending yourself or your property.
- Lead negotiation efforts that may help avoid going to court.
When to Involve Law Enforcement
If a dispute with a neighbor escalates, you may wonder when it is appropriate to involve law enforcement. When your neighbors’ actions go from being a nuisance to posing an immediate threat to safety or to criminal activity, you need police intervention in Arizona.
When a neighbor makes a credible threat against you or your pets, these actions can constitute assault, battery, or animal cruelty, which are serious criminal offenses. If a neighbor causes intentional damage to your property or personal belongings, they may be charged with criminal mischief or criminal damage, depending on the extent of the damage.
If you observe any illegal activities such as drug dealing, illegal gambling, or domestic violence, you should notify the police. The Gilbert Police Department reports that from September 1, 2023, through August 2024, they received 1,849 domestic violence calls, resulting in 1,328 arrests. A total of 1,436 victims received assistance from police. These activities are illegal and can destabilize a neighborhood.
If you feel harassed or threatened by repeated or unwanted contact from a neighbor, their actions may constitute harassment or stalking. Other actions include persistent, unwanted communication, surveillance, or following that makes you fear for your safety. These actions may be criminal and/or civil offenses. You should document these actions to build a viable case and make a report to law enforcement.
Ongoing noise disturbances that persist even after attempts to resolve them require police intervention. If you are experiencing a noise violation in Gilbert, you should contact the Gilbert Police Department located at 50 E. Civic Center Drive, Gilbert, AZ 85296.
FAQs
What Are Examples of Harassment by a Neighbor?
Harassment by a neighbor can manifest in different forms that often result in discomfort and stress. Examples can include verbal harassment, such as threatening, aggressive, or intimidating language, shouting, or insults. Physical harassment can include blocking pathways, unwanted physical interaction, and property destruction or vandalism.
Stalking behavior is another example that can include unwanted surveillance and interactions. Harassment can include trespassing and interfering with a person’s personal activities on their property.
What Should I Do if a Neighbor Threatens My Dog?
If a neighbor threatens your dog, you should immediately contact the police. If your neighbor is threatening physical harm that is credible, your safety and that of your pet are paramount. Arizona takes animal cruelty seriously, and threatening an animal can result in a Class 1 misdemeanor charge that carries a $2,500 fine and/or six months imprisonment.
You should gather all evidence related to the threat, including written notes, emails, text messages, and voicemails.
How Can You Deal With Bad Neighbors Legally?
To deal with a bad neighbor legally, you should attempt to discuss the issue face-to-face. If your attempts to communicate with your neighbor to reach a resolution are unsuccessful, you may need to contact your homeowners’ association or local law enforcement for assistance. If the problem cannot be settled through these channels, you may need to pursue legal options such as a restraining order, a nuisance claim, or a neighbor dispute case.
What Type of Lawyer Handles Neighbor Harassment?
Harassment related to housing is typically handled by a real estate lawyer. Neighbor harassment is ongoing behavior or actions that impact your quality of life, cause emotional distress, or disrupt your peace. This type of harassment is commonly repeated and intentional. The harassment may be physical, verbal, or involve manipulation or damage to your property. If you are experiencing neighbor harassment, it is critical to document each incident in detail.
Contact an Arizona Neighbor Dispute Attorney
When disputes arise between neighbors, clarity and guidance are essential. The legal team at Harper Hall PLC has a deep understanding of neighbor dispute laws and can bring fairness, peace of mind, and a clear resolution to these issues. Our attorneys can protect your rights and advocate for solutions that promote understanding. Contact the office to learn how we can help with your neighbor dispute issues.
