Seattle Domestic Violence No-Contact Orders
Washington No-Contact Order Laws
In many domestic violence cases, the court issues a Criminal No-Contact Order (NCO). This order is separate from the underlying charge and can be imposed immediately after arrest — often before a conviction.
No-Contact Orders are designed to prevent communication between the accused and the alleged victim while the case is pending. Courts treat these orders seriously, and violations can result in new criminal charges.
When Are No-Contact Orders Issued?
Under RCW 10.99.040, a court may issue a No-Contact Order when a person is:
- Released from jail pending arraignment
- Released on bail before trial
- Ordered to comply with conditions of release
The judge may impose the order even if the alleged victim does not request it. In many cases, the order is entered at arraignment and remains in place throughout the case.
The court may also prohibit disclosure of the alleged victim's address or contact information.
Terms of a Criminal No-Contact Order
A person subject to a No-Contact Order must strictly follow its terms. Common restrictions include:
- No direct or indirect contact with the protected person
- No returning to a shared residence
- No third-party communication
- Firearm restrictions
- Distance requirements (stay-away provisions)
Important: Even if the protected person initiates contact, invites the defendant over, or attempts reconciliation, the order remains enforceable. Only the court can modify or terminate a No-Contact Order.
The order typically includes statutory language stating that violation is a criminal offense and may result in immediate arrest.
Duration of No-Contact Orders
The duration of a Criminal No-Contact Order varies. It may:
- Remain in effect while the case is pending
- Be extended as a condition of sentencing
- Last for a fixed number of years after conviction
An order does not automatically terminate simply because the alleged victim requests dismissal. Only a judge can lift or modify the order.
Penalties for Violating a No-Contact Order (RCW 26.50.110)
Law enforcement officers may arrest a person without a warrant if they have probable cause to believe the order was violated.
Standard Violation: Gross Misdemeanor
- Up to 364 days in jail
- Up to $5,000 in fines
Felony Violation (Class C Felony) if:
- The violation involves assault, reckless endangerment, or certain other crimes
- The defendant has two or more prior violation convictions
- Up to 5 years in prison
- Up to $10,000 in fines
In addition to new criminal charges, a violation may result in contempt proceedings, additional release conditions, or electronic monitoring.
Multiple Charges From One Incident
A single incident can lead to multiple charges. For example, if a person subject to a No-Contact Order returns to a residence and damages property, prosecutors may file:
- Violation of a No-Contact Order
- Malicious Mischief
- Additional domestic violence-related charges
This stacking of charges significantly increases exposure.
Modifying or Lifting a No-Contact Order
In some circumstances, a defense attorney may petition the court to modify or lift a No-Contact Order. Judges consider:
- The severity of the allegations
- Criminal history
- Whether both parties request modification
- Public safety concerns
Until a court formally changes the order, strict compliance is required.
Seattle Domestic Violence Attorney for No-Contact Order Cases
No-Contact Order violations are among the most common ways domestic violence cases escalate from misdemeanor exposure to felony risk.
Steve Karimi is a former King County prosecutor with more than 25 years of criminal law experience. He understands how courts evaluate compliance issues and works strategically to protect clients from additional charges and long-term consequences.
If you are facing a No-Contact Order or have been accused of violating one in Seattle, contact The Law Offices of Steve Karimi for a confidential consultation available 24/7.