Arizona Curfew LawÂ
In Arizona, curfew laws are designed to keep minors safe and prevent juvenile crime. These laws restrict the times during which minors can be out in public without adult supervision. Violations of curfew laws can result in penalties for both the minor and their parents or legal guardians. In this article, we will provide an overview of curfew laws in Arizona, including the statutes, potential penalties, and related crimes.
Curfew Laws in Arizona
It’s important to note that cities and counties in Arizona adopt their own curfew laws. For example, the City of Phoenix has a curfew that applies to minors under the age of 16, and they must not be in public places between 10 pm and 5 am on weekdays, and between 12 am and 5 am on weekends. (Phoenix Municipal Code § 22-1).  The City of Mesa has a curfew that applies to minors under the age of 17, and they must not be in public places between 10 pm and 5 am on weekdays and between 12 am and 5 am on weekends. (Mesa Code of Ordinances § 6-6-1). Therefore, it is important to research your local laws so that you can ensure either you or your children can comply.
What to Do if You are Caught Breaking Curfew
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Cooperate with the Officers
Being cooperative with police officers is always essential to your well-being and resolving your case later on. Anytime you being questioned or arrested by the police, treat them with respect and follow their instructions.Â
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Provide Your Reason for Being Out During Curfew
While you have the right to remain silent, if you believe you have a legitimate permitted reason for being out during curfew, it would be wise to share this with the officers. If you have been engaging in non-sanctioned curfew activities, consider utilizing your right to remain silent. Some common justifications or being out past curfew include emergency errands or being with an adult.Â
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Call an Attorney
If you are arrested for breaking curfew, it is critical to have a knowledgeable attorney on your side to protect you and ensure you are not wrongfully charged or mistreated.
Potential Penalties
Violating curfew laws in Arizona can result in penalties for both the minor and their parents or legal guardians. For a first-time offense, the minor may receive a warning or be required to attend a diversion program, such as community service or counseling. For subsequent offenses, the minor may face fines.
If a parent or legal guardian knowingly allows a minor to violate curfew laws, they may also face penalties. For a first-time offense, the parent or legal guardian may receive a warning or be required to attend a diversion program. For subsequent offenses, they may face fines.
Related Crimes
Violating curfew laws can also lead to other criminal offenses, such as underage drinking, drug use, or vandalism. For example, if a minor is out past curfew and is found to be in possession of alcohol or drugs, they may face charges for possession of a controlled substance or underage drinking.
Additionally, minors who violate curfew laws may be at risk of being victims or perpetrators of crimes. Being out late at night can expose them to dangerous situations, such as assaults or robbery. On the other hand, minors who violate curfew laws may also be more likely to engage in criminal behavior, such as vandalism or theft.
Curfew laws in Arizona are designed to keep minors safe and prevent juvenile crime. Violating curfew laws can result in penalties for both the minor and their parents or legal guardians. It’s important for parents and guardians to be aware of the curfew laws in their city and ensure that their children comply with them. By following curfew laws, minors can avoid potential legal trouble and stay safe.
Call the JacksonWhite Criminal Law team at (480) 504-6476 to discuss your case today.