Information About Your Seattle DV Charges
Domestic Violence Charges in Washington
If you have been arrested for a domestic violence offense in Washington, you may be facing uncertainty about your freedom, your family, and your future. Domestic violence allegations are taken seriously by prosecutors and courts, and even a misdemeanor charge can carry lasting consequences.
This page provides general information about how domestic violence cases are handled in Seattle. Every case is unique, so for advice specific to your situation, consult an experienced domestic violence defense attorney.
What Is Domestic Violence Under Washington Law?
In Washington, “domestic violence” is not a separate crime. Instead, it is a designation added to certain criminal offenses when they occur between family or household members.
Under RCW 10.99.020, domestic violence can include crimes such as:
- Assault
- Harassment or stalking
- Malicious mischief
- Burglary or trespass
- Violation of a protection or no-contact order
- Sexual offenses
A “family or household member” may include:
- Spouses or former spouses
- Dating partners
- People who share a child
- Parents and children
- Individuals related by blood or marriage
- People who currently or previously lived together
When a crime is designated as domestic violence, the penalties can include additional court conditions beyond the standard criminal sentence.
No Contact Orders
In many domestic violence cases, the court issues a No Contact Order at or shortly after arraignment. This order can prohibit the accused from:
- Contacting the alleged victim
- Returning to a shared home
- Possessing firearms
- Going near certain locations
Violating a No Contact Order can result in additional criminal charges — often a gross misdemeanor or felony.
Penalties for Domestic Violence
The penalties depend on the underlying offense and criminal history. Possible consequences include:
- Jail or prison time
- Fines
- Mandatory counseling or treatment programs
- Probation
- Protective or restraining orders
- Loss of firearm rights
- Immigration consequences
A conviction can also impact employment, housing opportunities, professional licensing, and child custody proceedings.
The Legal Process in Seattle Domestic Violence Cases
Domestic violence cases typically proceed through several stages:
- Arrest or criminal citation
- Arraignment
- Pretrial hearings
- Negotiations or motions
- Trial (if no resolution is reached)
Prosecutors — not the alleged victim — decide whether charges move forward.
Seattle Criminal Courts Handling Domestic Violence Cases
Most felony domestic violence cases in Seattle are handled by the King County Superior Court. Misdemeanor cases may be filed in Seattle Municipal Court.
King County Courthouse (Seattle)
Street Address:
516 Third Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
Mailing Address:
King County Superior Court
516 Third Avenue, Room C-203
Seattle, WA 98104
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Maleng Regional Justice Center (Kent)
Street Address:
401 Fourth Avenue North
Kent, WA 98032
Mailing Address:
King County Superior Court
401 Fourth Avenue North, Room 2D
Kent, WA 98032
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
(Reception closed 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.)
Speak With a Seattle Domestic Violence Defense Attorney
Domestic violence charges can affect your freedom, your reputation, and your family relationships. Early legal intervention is often critical.
Steve Karimi is a former King County prosecutor with more than 25 years of criminal law experience. He understands how domestic violence cases are evaluated and prosecuted and works strategically to protect his clients' rights at every stage.
If you have been arrested for a domestic violence offense in Seattle, contact The Law Offices of Steve Karimi for a confidential consultation available 24/7.