Puget Sound Domestic Violence Attorneys

Whether it’s you or someone you know who has been involved in a domestic violence dispute, there’s no doubt that it is an emotionally strenuous experience. In circumstances where emotions and tensions are high, the truth can often become blurred. Our team of skilled attorneys at Verity Criminal Defense are well-versed in how to understand the whole picture, examine all the evidence, and seek out the truth while ensuring your rights are being upheld fairly.

As experienced attorneys, we’ve handled matters ranging from traffic violations to serious felony offenses with trial experience ranging from bench trial to full, 12-member jury panels. This means that we are well-equipped to understand the nuances of your case and to build an effective defense for any situation. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time if you are in need of legal counsel and guidance.

What is Domestic Violence in Washington State?

Domestic violence, as defined by the Washington State Legislature, is physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or the infliction of fear of imminent physical harm, bodily injury, sexual assault, or stalking of one intimate partner by another intimate partner. This definition also applies to domestic violence by a family or household member by another family or household member.

Family and Household Members include:

• Spouses and former spouses

• Adults who are presently residing together or who resided together in the past

• Persons 16 years of age or older who have had or have a dating relationship

• Parents of a child

• Adults related by blood or marriage

What are the Most Common Domestic Violence Charges?

There is a mandatory arrest law for police officers responding to domestic violence incidents. If the officer has probable cause to believe that a domestic violence offense was committed within 4 hours they will arrest the person they believe to be the primary aggressor.

Allegations of unwanted physical contact will likely result in domestic assault charges being filed. If hands were placed on the throat area the alleged assault becomes a felony charge.

No-contact orders are often filed after the arrest and, if violated, can result in an additional criminal charge.

Threats of harm, even if there is no physical damage or contact to a person or their property, can result in an arrest for harassment. Even if the “threat” is a joke, most police will take the threat seriously.

Damaged property, even if it’s your own, can result in a malicious mischief charge or destruction of property charge.

What is a No-Contact Order?

A no-contact order is an order from the courts to prevent communication or contact with the victim. This order is normally issued after an arrest is made for domestic violence and can be issued even if there are no accusations of physical violence. This prohibits contact via phone, writing, or a third party.

It’s important to note that after a no-contact order is given, any contact made with the alleged victim is an additional crime. If contact involves an assault or reckless endangerment it can be a felony offense, as can a third violation of the no-contact order.

What Does it Mean to “Interfere with Report”?

Interfering with reporting of a crime is a separate gross misdemeanor crime for the person committing the domestic violence offense. This can be a situation like grabbing a phone and keeping it from someone attempting to call 911.

What Are the Penalties or Restrictions After Conviction?

Depending on whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony, the penalties and restrictions will vary. You could see jail time, fines, firearm restrictions, immigration restrictions, and a loss of voting rights.