AZ HB2238

Creates a new "severe threat order of protection" that prohibits respondents from possessing firearms based on credible threats of death or serious physical injury, acts of violence, or cruel mistreatment of animals.

Allows petitioners (family members, household members, significant others, probation officers, behavioral health professionals, or peace officers) who are at least 18 years old to file verified petitions in superior or municipal court requesting the protective order.

Establishes procedures for ex parte temporary orders (14-day duration) issued immediately or within one day of petition filing, followed by a hearing within 14 days where clear and convincing evidence is required to issue a final order lasting one year.

Requires persons subject to the order to surrender all firearms to law enforcement, with provisions for storage by federally licensed dealers or responsible custodians, and makes firearm possession during the order a class 4 felony.

Transfers petitions to juvenile court if the respondent is a minor and amends false swearing law to make falsely obtaining a severe threat order of protection a class 5 felony.