Are you the victim of a false accusation of domestic violence in Pierce County?

Every year, thousands of women, children — and yes, sometimes even men — are physically, financially or emotionally abused by spouses, family members or domestic partners. We applaud the work of law enforcement and organizations who work diligently to protect victims of domestic violence. Yet, as domestic violence attorneys, we also know that the accused may themselves be victims of false reports, misunderstandings or even revenge.

At The Woods Law Offices, PLLC, we believe that the accused have rights, too. We work vigorously and effectively to present your side and protect your interests. Washington’s domestic violence law is broadly written and can produce long-lasting repercussions above and beyond normal criminal penalties. Moreover, domestic violence consequences can be imposed even without a trial or conviction for any crime. Take these charges seriously — and get the legal representation from experienced criminal attorney Doug Woods immediately.

By definition, a violent crime with harsh penalties

A charge of domestic violence may be leveled because of allegations of rape or assault — as well as non-physical forms of violence, including stalking, harassment or threats of violence — made by a family or household member. Family or household members include spouses, former spouses, persons who have a child in common, persons who are living together, and people who have or have had a dating relationship (current or former boyfriend/girlfriend), as well as those in a parent-child relationship, including stepparents and stepchildren or even grandparents and grandchildren.

You should know that if you are accused of domestic violence, you can be arrested by the police on the spot — basically on the word of your accuser. Once you have been arrested (and possibly jailed), the court may issue a restraining order known as a no-contact order. This is a court order that may require you to stay away from the accuser’s home, school or place of employment and refrain from any contact with the accuser and members of the accuser’s family or household. This means that if you were living at the same home, you can be forced to move out of your own house and refrain from having any contact with your children or other members of your family. If you are facing charges, contact domestic violence lawyer Doug Woods immediately.

Violations of no-contact orders

Even if you are not arrested, if you are charged with an offense such as harassment, there will still be a hearing over whether a no-contact or no-harassment order will be issued. And because domestic violence and harassment may involve dozens of other offenses, a no-contact order can be ordered in just about any case involving a family or household member accused of domestic abuse.

As your felony lawyer, we are here to help you. If you have received a no-contact order, it is imperative that you do not violate the order. While we understand that you may want to talk to your accuser, see your children or gain access to your home, you risk a year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000 — or worse.

Schedule a free consultation to learn more about your options and your rights

We offer skilled legal counsel and representation to those facing criminal domestic violence charges throughout Pierce County and King County. To schedule your free consultation with Doug Woods, a domestic abuse attorney, please contact us online. Weekends and evenings appointments are available.