A domestic violence conviction can lead to severe penalties that can seriously affect your life. Because it is so easy to file a domestic violence complaint in Washington State, you should take steps to prevent prosecution. Innocent people are sometimes accused of domestic violence, and the prosecutor may pursue formal charges even if the alleged victim changes their story entirely.
The punishments for a domestic violence conviction can land you in jail, and cause all sort of other problems in your personal life. You could lose your civil rights, and a no-contact order could separate you from your family, even before a verdict is rendered by a judge.
Punishments associated with a domestic violence charge depend upon the severity of the situation and circumstances surrounding the arrest. A gross misdemeanor domestic violence charge carries a sentence of up to a year in jail and fines totaling $5,000. If the victim was injured, the charge could be a far-more-severe felony. In this case the penalties could include a prison sentence. If the accused has prior convictions, the punishments could be five years behind bars and $10,000 in fines, which is obviously something everyone wants to avoid.
Other charges may accompany a domestic violence charge, which will also have to be addressed by your lawyer. For example, if property was damaged during the alleged dispute, a malicious mischief charge could accompany the domestic violence charge. This crime incurs penalties that are swift and severe, so the sentencing could be compounded. You have a lot to consider when charged with any crime, so reach out to one of our Redmond domestic violence attorneys and let them help you handle your case.
At the Law Office of Jason S. Newcombe, we have more than thirty years of collective legal experience handling all sorts of domestic violence cases in Redmond. If you've been charged with a misdemeanor or felony crime, you need help from a legal professional to protect your legal rights.
Get Reliable Answers From Our Professional Redmond Domestic Violence LawyersWhen the police respond to a domestic violence situation, they will most often arrest the party that they believe is being aggressive. Spousal battery can be claimed without any proof, which could lead to an unwarranted arrest and a denial of bail. Afterwards, even if the alleged victim changes their story and recants their accusation of abuse, a judge may still issue a no-contact order or seek a conviction.
If charges are formally pressed by the prosecutor, a protection order may be granted to the victim. It's also possible that an existing order could be extended. If any court order is violated, it could lead to yet another arrest and more criminal charges.
Domestic violence cases are complex and demand swift action, which is why our Redmond domestic violence attorneys offer a free consultation upon request. Your Redmond domestic violence lawyer will investigate your case in an effort to gather evidence that supports your word. Contact our Redmond law office today and get professional legal guidance as you handle a domestic violence charge