Domestic Violence. 
Champions Of Your Defense.

A crime is labeled domestic violence (DV) if the complaining witness is related to the person accused. The relationship can be based on a current or past romantic relationship, a common child or residence, or any blood or marriage familial tie. The most common domestic violence Tacoma charges include assault, malicious mischief or destruction of property, interfering with a 911 call, violation of a domestic violence protection order or no contact order, harassment and reckless endangerment.

Because these allegations are usually based on one persons account of an incident there is often very little physical evidence to support the charge. The charges often arise from a heated moment and can be exaggerated or even fabricated. Calling into question the accuracy of the “victim’s” statement is one of primary ways to combat charges of domestic violence. An experienced Tacoma Domestic Violence lawyer can make all of the difference. The Attorney’s at Horwath Law routinely obtains 
dismissals on domestic violence charges.

If you have been arrested or charged with a crime of Domestic Violence in Pierce County or King County the consequences can be very serious. Even, misdemeanor DV charges can result in jail of up to 364 days and fines of up to $5000.

What’s more is that whether your case is a misdemeanor or felony, if you are convicted of a crime involving Domestic Violence in Tacoma, Federal Way, or Puyallup, the court often times orders anger management or domestic violence classes, protective orders, and probation. The loss of firearm rights is also a direct consequence of a DV conviction (which can be particularly impaction if you are a military member). If you are facing Tacoma, Puyallup, Kent, or Lakewood Domestic Violence charges it is imperative that you bring on a team of competent criminal defense attorneys.

You are probably already aware that when the police respond to a domestic violence 911 call, an arrest of one of the parties present is extremely likely. Often you or your loved one will be forced out of the home while the case is pending. Washington has some of the harshest domestic violence laws and once the process has begun, the complaining witness no longer has the right to drop the charges.

People are often shocked that a felony level Tacoma domestic violence assault (2nd Degree Assault) can arise without any actual physical marks on an alleged victim. Assault in the second degree, which is a very serious strike offense, can arise from an allegation of choking or strangulation without injuries. Judges in Pierce, King and Thurston County have no problem setting bail upwards of $50,000 at the first appearance even when the defendant has no criminal history.

• Assault (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Degree)
• Violation of a Protection Order
• Violation of a No Contact Order
• Malicious Mischief/Destruction of Property
• Harassment