Seattle-Tacoma & King County Domestic Violence Attorneys
Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
Strategic defense against domestic violence charges throughout Washington State
The filing of false domestic violence charges in Washington State is a serious problem. Often, attorneys hear that police were called in the heat of the moment during a domestic dispute and there was no real fear of injury. Although the victim then wants charges dropped, the police and prosecutors may not cooperate. This is where the domestic violence attorneys at Newton & Hall, Attorneys at Law can help.
Our domestic violence lawyers have decades of combined experience dealing with law enforcement and defending clients accused of charges such as assault, malicious mischief, and other forms of domestic violence. We know how to handle the police, prosecutors, and divorce attorneys involved in these matters. We can coordinate your defense in order to minimize possible consequences.
What is Domestic Violence?
In the state of Washington, domestic violence refers to any criminal act committed by one family or household member against another. This may include:
- Assault in the Fourth Degree
- Assault in the Third Degree
- Assault in the Second Degree
- Assault in the First Degree
- Property destruction / Malicious Mischief
- Harassment & Telephone harassment
- Reckless endangerment
- Violation of protection orders
- Assault with a deadly weapon
- Cyberstalking
- Murder
Family or household members include people who are now or have formerly been married or resided together, as long as both parties are at least 16 years old. This definition also encompasses people who have children together as well as parent-child, parent-stepchild and grandparent-grandchild relationships. When problems develop between any of these family or household members, our domestic violence defense attorneys offer an immediate response and thorough, sensitive representation.
Comprehensive Help from Domestic Violence Attorneys
Being charged with domestic violence can affect your life in many ways. Unfortunately, these serious charges are sometimes levied during divorce proceedings when one parent wants to strengthen his or her case for custody of a child. We know how to fight unwarranted domestic violence protection orders that are used to take away your custodial or visitation rights.
If you have been accused of or charged with domestic abuse, it is imperative that you work with a highly experienced Seattle assault attorney to avoid serious consequences including:
- Prison time
- Limited access to your children
- Inability to return to your home
- Restraining orders
- Difficulties renting or keeping an apartment
- Lost right to carry firearms
- Difficulties finding a job
- Mandatory enrollment in domestic violence treatment program
- Possible deportation
It is inadvisable to work with an attorney who handles both divorce and criminal defense, as the two practice areas are far different. But the skilled domestic violence lawyers at Newton & Hall work closely with a number of family law attorneys and assemble a team to help you with any divorce-related criminal actions. We work hard to clear your name and guide you through the steps to get your life back.
Other Resources:
Domestic Violence Consequences