Seattle Domestic Violence Burglary
Domestic Violence Burglary Charges in Seattle
If you have been arrested for burglary involving an alleged domestic violence situation, you may be facing serious felony charges with enhanced consequences.
Under RCW 10.99.020, many crimes — including burglary — can be designated as domestic violence when they occur between family or household members. When a domestic violence designation is added, the consequences can extend far beyond the standard burglary penalties.
If you are facing burglary and domestic violence allegations in Seattle, contact The Law Offices of Steve Karimi immediately for a confidential consultation.
Washington Burglary Charges
Washington recognizes two primary burglary offenses that commonly arise in domestic situations: Burglary in the Second Degree and Burglary in the First Degree. Both are felony offenses.
Burglary in the Second Degree (RCW 9A.52.030)
A person is guilty of burglary in the second degree if, with intent to commit a crime against a person or property therein, he or she enters or remains unlawfully in a building other than a vehicle or dwelling.
Burglary in the Second Degree is classified as a Class B Felony.
Potential Penalties:
- Up to 10 years in prison
- Fines up to $20,000
This charge does not require proof that violence occurred — only that the entry was unlawful and done with criminal intent.
Burglary in the First Degree (RCW 9A.52.020)
A person is guilty of burglary in the first degree if, with intent to commit a crime against a person or property therein, he or she enters or remains unlawfully in a building and, while entering, inside, or in immediate flight, the person (a) is armed with a deadly weapon, or (b) assaults any person.
Burglary in the First Degree is a Class A Felony — the most serious burglary offense.
Potential Penalties:
- Up to life in prison
- Fines up to $50,000
When an alleged burglary involves assault or a weapon and occurs between family or household members, prosecutors frequently add a domestic violence designation.
What Makes Burglary a Domestic Violence Offense?
A burglary becomes a domestic violence offense when it is allegedly committed against a family or household member. Washington law defines family or household members broadly and may include:
- Spouses or former spouses
- Dating partners or former partners
- Parents and children
- Individuals who reside or previously resided together
In domestic burglary cases, allegations often involve:
- Entering or refusing to leave a shared residence
- Entering a former partner's home
- Entering while allegedly armed
- Alleged assault during entry
Additional Consequences of a Domestic Violence Designation
A domestic violence label can trigger consequences beyond incarceration and fines, including:
- No Contact Orders
- Removal from the home
- Firearm restrictions
- Probation conditions
- Long-term criminal record implications
Importantly, once charges are filed, the decision to proceed rests with the State — not the alleged victim.
Seattle Domestic Violence Burglary Defense
Burglary cases often hinge on intent, lawful entry status, relationship classification, and the credibility of witness testimony. In domestic situations, emotions and misunderstandings frequently complicate the facts.
Steve Karimi is a former King County prosecutor with more than 25 years of criminal law experience. He understands how prosecutors evaluate burglary cases and how domestic violence designations impact sentencing and negotiations.
If you have been charged with burglary involving domestic violence in Seattle, contact The Law Offices of Steve Karimi immediately for a confidential consultation available 24/7.