In WA State, it is very common to be wrongfully accused of Domestic Violence. There is usually very little, if any physical evidence of a domestic crime. Often times, it comes down to the statement of the complaining witness. Unfortunately, many complaining witnesses make false or exaggerated statements to the police. These accusations often result in criminal charges that can be devastating to the life of the accused.

In Pierce County, bail is often set while the case is pending, even for a first time offender. It is important to speak with a domestic violence attorney before communicating with the alleged victim or law enforcement. Any type of communication with the complaining witness can result in an additional criminal charge if a No Contact Order has been issued by the court.

Domestic Violence Penalties

Most domestic abuse charges in the Puyallup, Tacoma, Federal Way, Lakewood, and Auburn, WA areas are gross misdemeanors that are punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. Jail is commonly imposed for a first time domestic violence conviction. For a Domestic Violence Assault 4 conviction, there is usually a 1 year mandatory batterer's treatment requirement.

A conviction for DV will in most cases make you ineligible to posses a firearm. If you are a military soldier or law enforcement officer convicted of a domestic violence crime, this conviction will likely result in the termination of your employment. There are several other professions that will terminate your employment upon notice of a domestic assault conviction.

Types of Domestic Violence Charges

In Washington State, the domestic violence designation is determined by the relationship between the person accused and the complaining witness. A domestic relationship is established if there is an incident with any family member (by blood or by marriage), current or past romantic relationships, child in common, and even current roommates.

Criminal domestic violence charges include Assault 4 (4th Degree Assault), but also include other nonviolent offenses. These other offenses are:

• Destruction of Property
  
• Malicious Mischief
• Violation of a Domestic Violence Protection Order
  
• Violation of a No Contact Order
• Stalking
• Harassment 
  

Defending Domestic Violence Allegations

A good domestic violence lawyer will protect your rights and mitigate or eliminate the domestic violence penalties. When selecting a DV lawyer, it is important that you choose one who not only has domestic violence experience, but also has current knowledge on all of the consequences of the criminal issue.

Cristine Beckwith is a Tacoma, WA domestic violence attorney who has successfully defended hundreds of clients accused of DV related crimes in Pierce County and King County. Her proven track record has earned her a strong reputation for defending clients in courts that include Puyallup, Tacoma, Federal Way, Auburn, Gig Harbor, University Place, and Lakewood, WA.