Seattle Restraining Order Lawyer
Individuals subjected to domestic abuse often feel like making it stop is an impossible reality. Trying to understand what rights you have under Washington law and the programs available to protect you can get complicated. Fortunately, there is hope in ending the violence. Domestic violence victims in Snohomish and King Counties have the option of petitioning their local court for a restraining order, but knowing which type is appropriate for your case and the evidence required to get one granted is challenging. That is why you need an experienced Seattle restraining order lawyer.
At ZafiroLaw, we make it our mission to help our clients put a stop to the suffering they endure living with abusive partners, spouses, or family members. We take your safety seriously and can be your source of legal guidance when you have no one else to trust. Don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our restraining order lawyers today to get assistance with your domestic violence issues.
What is Abusive Use of Conflict?
What is the Legal Definition of Domestic Violence in Washington?
In Washington, important legislation called The Domestic Violence Prevention Act outlines what qualifies as domestic violence under the law. Such abuse includes instances of any of the below examples between household or family members:
- Physical harm
- Sexual assault
- Stalking
- Bodily injury
- Assault
- Putting you in fear of immediate harm physically, bodily, or by assault
More About The Types of Domestic Violence
There are many types of abusive behaviors that fall under this definition, including:
- Pushing and shoving
- Hitting
- Slapping
- Biting
- Choking
- Abuse that causes you actual harm or fear thereof
Our Seattle-based restraining order attorneys at ZafiroLaw have experienced family law lawyers who have years of experience representing domestic violence victims. If you are unsure if what you are experiencing qualifies as abuse or want to learn more about obtaining a restraining order, contact us right away to begin taking back your life and end the violence.
How Do I Obtain a Protection Order in Washington State?
If you need a protection order, more commonly known as a restraining order, because of domestic abuse, you will need to ask a Washington court in your area to grant you one. Whether you successfully convince the court to do so or not will depend on the circumstances and facts of your case.
Typically, a restraining order petition will require you to be specific about the domestic violence you have suffered and the harm it has caused you. You are also required to inform the court if you have any pending child custody matters or already existing court orders between you and your abuser. The necessary forms to file your action are available through the court and should not require any filing fees. If you decide to work with a skillful Washington domestic violence attorney, you may qualify for reimbursement of your legal fees.
Once submitted, the court typically issues a temporary restraining order (TRO) and sets a later hearing where your abuser will have a chance to share their side of the issue with the court. This second hearing usually takes place 14 days after your TRO is approved, and this temporary order will stay in effect until a final ruling is made at the return hearing.
More About How to Get A Restraining Order in Washington
How Can a Restraining Order Help My Domestic Violence Situation?
A restraining order provides restrictions on how the abusive party can or cannot contact you. These orders can even include provisions that would impact the relationship between your children and the abusive party. Another way this action can help your situation is if the court determines that you can use the family home, vehicle, or other personal property. This means you may not have to worry about immediately moving and have time to look for a new place suitable for your needs.
If you have children involved, the court might also require your abuser to attend parenting and/or anger management classes to ensure that they do not continue this dangerous behavior. This could also be required even if no instances of domestic violence affected children directly.
Another crucial aspect of pursuing a restraining order after suffering domestic abuse is that your abuser may also have to surrender any firearms they own to law enforcement or another responsible party. This is especially important if previous threats or harm are made with the use of a gun, but this step will require significant evidence due to the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution. Federal law is strict on what conditions must be met for this action to be ordered, and the requirements are the same whether you live in Redmond or Mill Creek.
A Seattle Restraining Order Lawyer From ZafiroLaw Will be Your Advocate
ZafiroLaw has almost two decades of experience representing victims and their families who have been subjected to domestic violence in King County and Snohomish County, Washington. We can help you file all the necessary paperwork to request a restraining order and ensure that the court has a thorough understanding of the abuse you have endured. You have the right to live a life free from abuse and violence. To learn more about how our family law firm can help, please call us at 206-547-9906 or contact us today!
