PROTECTION ORDERS IN SEATTLE, WA

SEATTLE CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Just as other states throughout the nation have made domestic violence a priority in their enforcement and prosecution efforts, Washington has adopted a number of strict laws and procedures in cases involving any form of domestic violence. As part of these procedures, courts will typically issue orders designed to protect alleged victims while a case is pending and / or after a defendant has been convicted of a criminal offense. In Seattle and all communities throughout the state of Washington, there are several different types of domestic violence court orders, including no contact orders and civil anti-harassment orders. Domestic violence orders for protection – sometimes referred to simply as protection orders – are the most commonly requested court order in domestic violence cases.

Protection orders will prohibit an accused individual – also known as a respondent – from threatening an alleged victim and entering their residence. They may also award temporary custody of children to one parent, order an accused individual to leave a shared residence, and require that the respondent attend mandatory counseling. As courts take domestic violence very serious, individuals who violate these court orders can face severe criminal repercussions.

VIOLATING PROTECTION ORDERS IN WASHINGTON

Violating any of the terms of a protection order can subject a respondent to criminal repercussions, including criminal charges and penalties. Additionally, Washington law mandates that violating two specific provisions of a protection order will result in mandatory arrest. These provisions include:

• Violating a provision of causing or threatening harm; or
• Coming within a certain distance of a home, workplace or school that the respondent has been ordered to stay away from.

Violations of other terms of a protection order may result in consequences that range from contempt of court to a Class C felony. Law enforcement officers will also have the ability to make arrests if they have probable cause to believe that an assault occurred within four hours prior to responding to a call.

SEATTLE CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS WITH MORE THAN 45 YEARS OF COMBINED EXPERIENCE

If you are currently facing allegations for domestic violence, be aware that law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and courts in Washington taking these matters extremely serious. Whether you are in need of experienced criminal defense, assistance with modifying a protecting order, or representation in matters relating to a violation of a protection order, our firm's legal team has the experience and resources needed to protect your rights and future. Contact a Seattle criminal defense attorney from Lewis & Laws, PLLC to learn more about your case.