Seattle Domestic Violence FAQs
What Is Domestic Violence Under Washington Law?
In Washington, “domestic violence” is not a separate crime. It is a designation applied to certain criminal offenses when they occur between people who share a qualifying family or household relationship.
When a charge is labeled domestic violence, additional legal consequences may apply, including mandatory no-contact orders and firearm restrictions.
Legal Definition of Domestic Violence
Under RCW 26.50.010, domestic violence includes:
(a) Physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or the infliction of fear of imminent physical harm between family or household members;
(b) Sexual assault of one family or household member by another; or
(c) Stalking of one family or household member by another family or household member.
The key factor is not just the conduct itself, but the relationship between the individuals involved.
Who Qualifies as a “Family or Household Member”?
Washington law defines family or household members broadly. This includes:
- Spouses and former spouses
- Domestic partners and former domestic partners
- People who share a child in common
- Adults related by blood or marriage
- Adults who currently reside together or previously resided together
- Persons age 16 or older who have or had a dating relationship
- Persons with a biological or legal parent-child relationship
A “dating relationship” is defined as a social relationship of a romantic nature, evaluated based on the length and type of relationship and the frequency of interaction.
Crimes That Can Be Charged as Domestic Violence
Under RCW 10.99.020, many criminal offenses may be designated as domestic violence when committed between qualifying individuals. Common examples include:
- Assault (misdemeanor or felony)
- Reckless endangerment
- Coercion
- Burglary
- Criminal trespass
- Malicious mischief
- Kidnapping
- Unlawful imprisonment
- Rape or sexual offenses
- Stalking
- Violation of a no-contact or protection order
- Interfering with the reporting of domestic violence
This list is not exhaustive. The domestic violence label depends on both the underlying offense and the relationship between the parties.
What If the Alleged Victim Does Not Want to Press Charges?
In Washington, criminal charges are filed by the State — not by the alleged victim. Once law enforcement makes an arrest and a prosecutor files charges, the case proceeds in the name of the State of Washington.
A case may continue even if the alleged victim does not want prosecution to move forward. While lack of cooperation can affect the strength of the case, it does not automatically result in dismissal.
Potential Penalties for Domestic Violence Convictions
The penalties depend on the underlying charge and its classification:
- Misdemeanor: Up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine
- Gross Misdemeanor: Up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine
- Class C Felony: Up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
- Class B Felony: Up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine
- Class A Felony: Up to life in prison and a $50,000 fine
In addition to incarceration and fines, a domestic violence conviction may result in:
- Mandatory no-contact orders
- Loss of firearm rights
- Probation or community custody
- Mandatory treatment programs
- Immigration consequences
- Impact on custody or family court proceedings
Why You Should Speak With a Seattle Domestic Violence Attorney
Domestic violence allegations carry serious legal and personal consequences. Early legal representation allows for review of police reports, body camera footage, recorded statements, and potential defenses before critical decisions are made.
Steve Karimi is a former King County prosecutor with more than 25 years of criminal law experience. If you have been arrested or accused of a domestic violence offense in Seattle, contact The Law Offices of Steve Karimi for a confidential consultation available 24/7.