Fighting False Allegations of Domestic Violence in Washington State

Get advice from a Seattle domestic violence attorney on fighting bogus domestic violence charges.

Domestic violence is a significant issue in our society. Domestic violence occurs when someone physically assaults or threatens a family or household member. However, false allegations of domestic violence are also commonplace. People who make false accusations of domestic violence cause harm to true victims of domestic violence and turn the lives of the accused upside down. As someone who is accused of domestic violence, it often feels like you’re guilty until proven innocent.

When the police are called during a domestic dispute in Seattle or King County, they usually make an arrest and tend to take the side of the person who called the police. What actually took place during the dispute could be very different from what’s in the police report due to exaggerations and false accusations. Many times, the accuser uses false domestic violence charges to their advantage in divorce and custody proceedings.

Many people are falsely accused and convicted of domestic violence. The implications of domestic violence charges are severe and may include a restraining order and eviction from your home. A domestic violence conviction comes with various penalties, including jail, fines, probation, domestic violence treatment, and continuing no contact orders. Job loss and damaged relationships with family and friends are potential collateral consequences of a domestic violence conviction.

The police rarely listen to both sides of the story, so if you’re wrongly accused of domestic violence, you should fight back and contest the allegations. It’s best to get in touch with a Seattle domestic violence attorney because you deserve the best defense.

What Happens After the Arrest

After you are arrested for domestic violence, the prosecutor decides whether or not to file charges against you or dismiss the case. More often than not, the prosecutor will go ahead and press charges, even if the victim changes his or her mind. It’s best to hire a domestic violence attorney as early on in the process as possible because an attorney may be able to prevent criminal charges from being filed, as well as prevent you from making any incriminating statements.  

Oftentimes, an attorney can convince the prosecutor that he or she doesn’t have enough evidence to win the trial. This can result in the dismissal of your case or a reduction to a lesser charge. Going to trial is another option, but some clients prefer to avoid it because they are satisfied with a settlement and don’t want to risk the consequences of going to trial.

Schedule a Free Initial Consultation with a Seattle Domestic Violence Attorney

At Baker, Lewis, Schwisow & Laws, PLLC, we are prepared to help you fight false domestic violence accusations in Seattle and King County. We can help you clear your name of the charges, obtain a favorable outcome, and preserve your reputation. To schedule a free consultation with our Seattle domestic violence attorneys, please call 206.209.0608 or contact us online.