Seattle WA. Domestic Violence Attorney, Criminal Defense of spousal abuse lawyer,law firm Washington
 

 


 
  


Seattle Domestic Violence Attorney

 

Are you accused of Domestic Violence in Seattle?

Introduction
Thank you for visiting My Seattle Domestic Violence Attorney.  We will attempt to give you as much information about domestic violence in Seattle as possible on this site.  Additionally, you can visit our “Why Hire Us” page to see what separates us from the other domestic violence lawyers in and around Seattle.

Have you been charged with domestic violence?  If you have, you need the experience, knowledge and skill of one of our attorneys at the Domestic Violence Law Offices of “insert attorney name”.  Please rest assured that we will handle your case with the care and precision you deserve.

Overview

  • In Seattle, Domestic Violence convictions are considered misdemeanors and felonies.
  • This is a crime committed by a family or household member against another.  It includes all intimate relationships.
  • A spouse / former spouse
  • Adults or over 16 years old living together / used to live together
  • Have a child together
  • Someone over 16 years old in a dating/romantic relationship

 

  • Domestic Violence doesn’t care what age, gender, race you are.
  • The Seattle City Attorney’s Domestic Violence Unit provides support for all victims, no matter what gender you are or how old you are.
  • Comprised of prosecutors, victim advocates and a support staff.
  • The Units mission is to stop Domestic Violence.
  • Aggressive prosecution, accountability, education for all.

 

  • Washington State Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-562-6025.
  • The City of Seattle works to keep all people safe from domestic violence and sexual assault.  If you have been assaulted, call the King County Sexual Assault Resource Center: 1-888-998-6423.

 

Domestic Violence-Related Crimes
Domestic violence by itself is not a crime but part of one.  It refers to abuse, a threat, or robbery and is committed by one intimate partner to another.

Assault

  • Intentional touching of another person in a harmful or offensive manner.
  • Unlawful force can be used to create fear for the victim.
  • An assault is defined as follows:
  • Causes bodily injury to another person
  • Causes physical damage to another person’s property
  • Use physical restraint on another person
  • Harm a person in any manner – hurts this person’s physical and mental health

Harassment

  • Considered a gross misdemeanor.
  • Considered a Class C felony if:
  • You have a previous conviction for harassment with the same victim or her family

Interference

  • After committing a crime, you do not allow the victim to call 911 for help.

Malicious Mischief

  • If you knowingly and maliciously cause damage to another person’s property.
  • Malicious Mischief in the 1st Degree (Class B Felony) – damage over $1,500.
  • Malicious Mischief in the 2nd Degree (Class C Felony) – damage over $250.
  • Malicious Mischief in the 3rd Degree (Gross Misdemeanor) – damage over $50.
  • Malicious Mischief in the 3rd Degree (Misdemeanor) – damage under $50

Consequences
If you have been convicted of a domestic violence crime in Seattle, you are facing serious and long-term consequences, which include:

  • When police are called to a domestic violence situation, you will be arrested and jailed immediately if the officer finds probable cause that a crime has happened.
  • While the case is pending, a no-contact order will be issued to you – it will prevent you from returning to your home and having contact with your spouse and children.
  • You will be allowed one visit with a police officer to your home to pack a suitcase of necessary items.
  • You will not be allowed to keep firearms in your possession.
  • If you plead guilty or are convicted of a crime, you will face the following consequences:
  • Jail
  • Fines
  • Probation
  • A 1-year mandatory Domestic Violence Batterer’s Treatment program – your expense
  • Issuance of a no-contract order for up to 2 years.
  • It will be imposed even if the victim objects.
  • Permanent
  • Permanent loss of the right to keep firearms in your possession.
  • Custody and visitation rights will be limited.

Orders of Protection
Seattle courts issue Orders prohibiting Contact in the following circumstances:

  • The petitioner does not want any contact with you.
  • When a criminal charge is filed – doesn’t matter if the 2 people involved want contact with each other.
  • Prohibits all contact, including phone calls, e-mail, letters, messages through a third party.  It also limits the distance you need to stay away from the other person.
  • You will have to leave the house.
  • Civil standby – you can enter for a short time with an officer to get some of your personal belongings.
  • Violating these orders is a crime.

 

Victim - Have a Safety Plan

  • Do not go into a room that has no exit door.
  • Make sure the room has no weapons (kitchen knives).
  • Give a code word to a trusted friend; if this word is spoken, they will know to call the police.
  • Have a suitcase packed that includes money, keys, important papers and personal items.  Keep it hidden or at a trusted friends house.
  • If you move out, change your phone number; have called ID, change the locks and secure the windows
  • Keeps a record of any assaults or threats.
  • There are women’s support groups in all cities – find one and attend the meetings.
  • Keep the National Domestic Violence Hotline number with you – 800-799-SAFE (7233).

Conclusion
Don’t let bad choices ruin your life.  Most importantly, do not let someone control your life.  Call us immediately at the Domestic Violence Law Offices of “insert attorney name” because we take the time to listen.