Practice areas / Domestic violence
Domestic violence charges in Washington
"Domestic violence" is not a separate crime. It is a label attached to a charge, such as assault or malicious mischief, when the people involved are family, household members or intimate partners. The label changes everything about how the case is handled.
Who counts as family, household or intimate partner
Under Washington law the label applies when the allegation is between:
- Adults related by blood or marriage
- Adults who live together now or lived together in the past
- People with a parent–child relationship, including step-parents, step-children and grandparents
- Spouses or domestic partners, current or former
- People who share a child, whether or not they were ever married or lived together
- People 16 or older who are or were in a dating relationship
What happens at your first hearing
In most cases the judge issues a pretrial no-contact order between you and the alleged victim at your first appearance. If you live together, that can mean losing access to your home overnight.
If you share a residence, the judge can authorize a civil standby: law enforcement accompanies you briefly to collect essential belongings. Ask for it at the hearing, or have me ask for you.
In Chelan County, people arrested for domestic violence offenses are held without bail until that first appearance. How the jail and bail work.
What a conviction can cost
- Jail time and probation
- A long-term no-contact order separating you from family or your home
- Loss of firearm rights
- Consequences for employment, housing, immigration status and reputation
How I defend these cases
- Without judgment. You will be treated with respect and dignity, whatever the allegation.
- Strategically. From negotiating reduced charges to pursuing dismissal or trial, the goal is the best outcome available on your facts.
- With trial experience. I have secured multiple not-guilty verdicts. Prosecutors know that, and it shapes negotiations.
Experienced. Local. Trial-tested.
Call (509) 630-3492 today for a free, confidential consultation.
General information, not legal advice. Every case is different; talk to a lawyer about yours.