A conviction for domestic violence can be devastating, not only because of the penalties associated with the crime but also due to potential social repercussions. It’s surprisingly easy for someone to file a domestic violence complaint in Washington State, so if you've been accused of this crime you need to do everything you can to avoid a conviction. Innocent people in Gig Harbor find themselves accused of domestic violence each and every day, and even if the alleged victim changes their story, the police and the prosecutor may still pursue formal criminal charges.
Punishments associated with domestic violence convictions are often life-altering. You may even end up in jail, and risk losing of your civil rights. It's also possible that a no-contact order could separate you from your children and spouse before a verdict is reached.
The circumstances surrounding your arrest often influences the severity of your domestic violence charge. The punishments associated with the crime will also likely be affected. Most charges in domestic violence cases are of the gross misdemeanor variety, which incurs a sentence of up to a year in jail and fines of up to $5,000, if convicted. The severity of a domestic violence charge can be elevated to a felony if the victim was injured. Penalties for this particular domestic violence crime could result in a prison sentence of up to five years and $10,000 in fines.
Don't Risk A Conviction - Get Professional Legal Guidance From Our WA State Law OfficeIf additional criminal charges accompany your domestic violence case, you will likely face additional punishments. For instance, malicious mischief charges can be added to a domestic violence charge if property was damaged during the alleged interaction. In this scenario, the malicious mischief charge would incur its own serious penalties that could lead to more severe penalties.
If you've been charged with domestic violence, you have a lot of things to consider. Reach out to one of our Gig Harbor domestic violence lawyers for a free consultation so that you can get some reliable legal assistance at this crucial crossroads in your life.
With over three decades of combined experience handling domestic violence cases in Gig Harbor, the Law Office of Jason S. Newcombe is poised to help you take the next step. it doesn't matter if you’re charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, contact a legal professional as soon as possible and get the help you need to get your affairs back in order.
Our Experienced Gig Harbor Domestic Violence Lawyers Have The Answers You NeedDuring a domestic violence situation, the person identified as the aggressor is often quickly arrested by the police when they respond to the call. This doesn't mean that this person is at fault, because it’s very easy to claim spousal battery without any proof. This may lead to an arrest and a denial of bail, and even if the alleged victim later changes their story and wants to drop the charges, the state may still seek a conviction.
If charges are ultimately pressed by the alleged victim, they could be granted a protection order. If a protection order already exists, it may be extended. Violating the protection order can lead to additional arrests and charges, which underscores the many ways a domestic violence conviction in Gig Harbor can affect your life.
Domestic violence case in the State of Washington require swift action. Our Gig Harbor domestic violence lawyers offer a free case evaluation, so that you can start getting answers to your most important questions.
If you retain one of our professional litigators, your Washington State domestic violence attorney will pursue any evidence that strengthens your defense. Please contact our Gig Harbor law office today and let us help you address your domestic violence charge without any risk or obligation.