Domestic Violence Frequently Asked Questions

First-Offense DUI Cases

What to Know If You’ve Been Accused of Domestic Violence in Washington

A domestic violence accusation is never just about the criminal charge. In Washington, a DV allegation triggers a whole web of consequences: mandatory arrest, no-contact orders, housing trouble, even the loss of your gun rights. Often, it feels like the process is built to separate families before the facts are even sorted out.

We see people who never imagined themselves in this position—longtime couples, parents, young adults, people with clean records—suddenly tangled in a system that’s all about speed and control, not second chances.

We built this FAQ to answer the real questions people ask when they call us in the first 48 hours: Will I see my family? Can I go home? What does this mean for my job? Is there any way to undo this? The answers are here—frank, practical, and focused on your next steps. Don’t guess. Don’t gamble. Start by knowing what you’re up against.

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Common Questions About Domestic Violence Charges in Washington

What happens after a DV arrest?
You’ll likely be booked into jail, held without bail until your first court appearance (usually the next business day), and served with a no-contact order. This means you cannot go home or contact the alleged victim—even if they want you to.
Do I have to move out of my house after a DV arrest?
Almost always, at least until the first hearing. The no-contact order usually prohibits you from going home or communicating with the alleged victim. Violating this order can land you in jail again—fast.
Will I lose my gun rights?
If there’s a DV conviction or even a final protective order, you will almost certainly lose your right to possess firearms under state and federal law.
Can a DV charge be dropped if the alleged victim doesn’t want to prosecute?
Not easily. Prosecutors often proceed even if the alleged victim asks to drop the case. Once charges are filed, the state takes over.
What is a no-contact order, and can I fight it?
A no-contact order is a court order forbidding contact with the alleged victim. Judges rarely lift them early in DV cases, but your attorney can sometimes argue for modifications.
What should I do if the alleged victim tries to contact me?
Do not respond. Even if they initiate contact, you can still be arrested for violating the no-contact order.
Will a DV charge show up on my record?
Yes—immediately after arrest. If convicted, it stays on your record for life and is nearly impossible to remove in Washington.
Are all domestic violence charges felonies?
No. Most are gross misdemeanors, but aggravating factors (injury, weapons, prior history) can make them felonies.
What if the incident was mutual or self-defense?
Self-defense is a valid defense, but it requires careful evidence and argument. Washington law doesn’t presume guilt, but the system often acts like it.
How soon should I talk to a lawyer?
Immediately. Timing is everything—waiting even a day can close off options or make things harder to unwind.

Talk to a Washington Domestic Violence Defense Attorney Today

The difference between a permanent record and a fair outcome often comes down to who’s in your corner and how soon you act. Knauss Law doesn’t judge—we get to work, cut through confusion, and make sure you’re heard. Call for real answers, not empty promises.