Spokane Domestic Violence Lawyer

Spokane Domestic Violence Attorney

It’s never easy navigating imminent threats, violence, or abuse in your household. To protect yourself or a loved one, it’s recommended that you speak with a qualified Spokane domestic violence lawyer as soon as you can. The Legal Hill, PLLC, has extensive experience handling sensitive family law issues in civil court.

Looking at Domestic Violence in Spokane, WA

Domestic violence is a very serious issue across the United States and, unfortunately, a pervasive occurrence. According to a recent study, 12.9 percent of intentional violent deaths in Washington state observed over a multi-year period were connected to instances of domestic violence.

Of these 948 deaths over five years, evidence showed that 23.7 percent of these fatalities included prior involvement with social services or civil court, such as family law proceedings and protection orders.

In the state of Washington, domestic violence is legally defined as any assault, bodily injury, or imminent fear brought on by the threat of such abuse inflicted by one family or household member against another. Domestic violence also includes intimate harm committed between romantic partners, current or previous. One of the most effective ways to protect yourself or loved ones from domestic violence is by obtaining a protection order.

Cases involving domestic violence in Spokane, WA, are likely to be handled by the county’s Superior Court system. Depending on the details of the case, legal matters may be handled by the County District Court, located at 1116 W Broadway Avenue, Spokane, WA 99260. For cases within the city itself, proceedings may involve the Spokane Municipal Court, which is at 1100 W Mallon Avenue, Spokane, WA 99260.

What Are My Options Against Domestic Violence?

It’s important to act quickly when instances of domestic violence have occurred or appear imminent. The potential long-term effects and damage include mental and physical health complications, emotional distress, strain on relationships with friends and family, and impacts on children exposed to domestic violence or abuse.

One of the most effective ways of protecting yourself is by pursuing legal protections through civil court. These are some of the protection orders available in Washington state:

• Domestic violence protection order. These orders can be temporary or long-term. Temporary protection orders are granted without a full hearing, with the purpose of providing immediate protection. They last for a period of up to 14 days and may be extended for another 14 days or replaced with a long-term domestic violence protection order after a full hearing is conducted. Domestic violence protection orders generally last up to one year but can be extended in additional one-year periods if deemed necessary.
• No-contact order. Domestic violence no-contact orders are issued in criminal cases wherein the abuser has been arrested or charged with a domestic violence offense. This order protects the victim from being contacted by their abuser, including in person at their residence, work, and other commonly visited locations.
• Family law restraining order. Intended to protect individuals with a family law case from harassment, abuse, and other harm.
• Stalking protection order. Prevents stalking behavior that has reasonably caused the petitioner to feel threatened, intimidated, frightened, significantly disrupted, or under duress.

FAQs

What Behavior Is Considered Domestic Violence?

Many actions and behaviors may fall under the category of domestic violence. Domestic violence is any harm, abuse, harassment, or injury inflicted by an individual against someone in their household, family, or someone whom they had or have a romantic relationship with.

Behaviors may include physical or sexual assault, isolating a person from other relationships, emotional abuse or manipulation, and using children as leverage. Domestic violence can also include controlling or withholding one’s finances or other vital resources.

Who Can Be Accused of Domestic Violence in WA?

In Washington, there are several parties who can be fairly accused of committing domestic violence. Domestic violence inherently must involve individuals who are familiarly or intimately acquainted. This includes current or former boyfriends, girlfriends, domestic partners, and spouses. Domestic violence can also be between family members, either through blood relation or marriage, individuals who share children, and people who you live with or lived with previously, such as roommates.

Is Domestic Violence a Crime in Washington State?

Domestic violence is considered a crime in Washington, although it can cover a wide range of actions and behaviors, all of which may not warrant a criminal conviction. Washington state laws require law enforcement to follow up with an arrest if an incident of domestic violence has been reported. It’s up to the prosecution to determine whether charges are justified, and criminal proceedings should follow. It is also against the law to violate a protection or no-contact order.

What Are the Types of Protection Orders in Washington?

There are various types of protection orders in Washington that may be most appropriate for your specific circumstances. Judges can issue a temporary domestic violence protection order if determined necessary to provide immediate protection without waiting for a full hearing. A long-term protection order may be granted if the judge deems it necessary after a full hearing is conducted. No-contact orders are issued when the perpetrator has been charged with a domestic violence crime.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Get a Protection Order in WA?

While you are not legally required to work with a lawyer to petition for a domestic violence protection order in Washington, it can be incredibly beneficial and simplify the process for you. It can be overwhelming and complex trying to navigate the legal system by yourself, especially for those who aren’t familiar with the various laws and procedures involved. Your lawyer is there to advocate for you and speak on your behalf in all legal proceedings.

Spokane Domestic Violence Lawyer

Dealing with domestic violence is never easy, but you don’t need to figure it out alone. The skilled team at The Legal Hill, PLLC in Spokane, can guide you throughout the process of obtaining a protection order alongside any concurrent family law issues you may be navigating. Contact us today to schedule a meeting with a kind and knowledgeable domestic violence attorney.