Assault Frequently Asked Questions

What to Know If You’ve Been Charged With Assault in Washington

Assault charges in Washington aren’t reserved for bar fights and back-alley brawls. You can be accused of assault for a shove, a heated argument, even just a gesture someone finds threatening.

The system doesn’t care how you got here—it only cares what the police report says and whether the prosecutor sees a case to run with. Once the charge is filed, you’re on a track that can end in jail time, permanent record, or far-reaching collateral damage to your life and work.

We made this FAQ as a practical, plain-English guide for anyone facing an assault charge, and for their families and friends trying to help from the outside. These are the questions people ask us every day: How bad is this? What do I do now? What happens to my job, my rights, my family? The answers below don’t sugarcoat it, but they do show the path forward—one step at a time.

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Assault Charges

Common Questions About Assault Charges in Washington

What counts as assault in Washington?
Anything from hitting or shoving someone to unwanted touching or threats that put another person in fear of harm. The definition is broad, and even minor incidents can become criminal charges.
Are all assault charges felonies?
No. Assault can be charged as anything from a simple misdemeanor (Assault 4) to a serious felony, depending on injury, weapon use, or alleged victim’s status (child, spouse, police officer).
Can I go to jail for a first assault offense?
Yes—even first-timers face jail, probation, fines, and mandatory treatment. Judges don’t hand out warnings for assault; every case is treated seriously.
Is self-defense a real defense to assault?
Yes, but it’s on you (and your lawyer) to prove you reasonably believed you were in danger and used only the force necessary. Self-defense law in Washington can be nuanced and fact-specific.
Will this stay on my record forever?
Assault convictions—especially felonies—are extremely difficult to expunge. Misdemeanors can sometimes be vacated after years, but nothing disappears automatically.
What if the other person doesn’t want to press charges?
The decision to charge is the prosecutor’s, not the alleged victim’s. Even if the “victim” recants, the case can—and often does—move forward.
What about mutual fights or false allegations?
Police often arrest both parties or the one they believe is “primary aggressor.” False allegations do happen. An experienced defense attorney knows how to investigate, gather evidence, and challenge one-sided stories.
What if I wasn’t arrested at the scene?
You can still be charged later—sometimes weeks or months after the incident. Don’t wait to get legal advice.
Will my employer find out?
Many employers run periodic background checks. Some jobs (especially those involving children, vulnerable adults, or security clearance) may suspend or fire employees for pending assault charges.
What should I do right now?
Document everything you remember, save all related communications, and contact an attorney immediately. The sooner you get counsel, the more options you keep open.

Talk to a Washington Assault Defense Attorney Today

When you’re facing an assault charge, the facts matter—but so does the strategy. Knauss Law builds your defense from the ground up, dealing with prosecutors, protecting your rights, and making sure the real story gets told. Call for a no-BS consult and find out what comes next.