Domestic Violence
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Seattle Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Domestic Violence (DV) cases are a huge problem. It's shamefully easy to file a false domestic violence complaint, and almost impossible to prevent a prosecution once a complaint has been made. In many cases, people who have been accused of domestic violence in the past have learned how easy it is to file a domestic violence charge against their roommates –- just pick up the phone and dial 911 -- and they use this as a weapon to have innocent people arrested. When police are called to respond to a DV call, they are required to make an arrest, even in cases where they might not have otherwise arrested. With this knowledge, the false accuser is well-armed to use a DV accusation as a weapon against an innocent partner. Don't assume that because your partner has decided to change their testimony later that you can walk away from the case. Prosecutors are familiar with the "recanting spouse" syndrome and will often take their case to court even with a victim who changes their mind and says it never happened. Only the prosecutor can decide whether or not to press charges. DV "victims" have no control over whether a case is charged or prosecuted, they’re just witnesses who can be hauled into court and have their testimony used against their will. The United Supreme Court has recently ruled that the 911 calls made by the accuser can be introduced into evidence, even if the accuser doesn’t show up in court for trial. So don't assume that your partner is required to testify against you. The prosecution may be able to proceed against you even without a witness. Note also that, in addition to the usual assault charges, other crimes -- such as Burglary or even Malicious Mischief -- can also be charged as crimes of domestic violence. The "DV" (Domestic Violence) designation adds a serious set of penalties and consequences to any crime charged. Don't take a DV case lightly: it can result in consequences far beyond what you might think possible. It's typical in DV cases that a "No Contact Order" (NCO) will also be issued by the court. Don't ignore this Order; a violation of a No Contact Order (VNCO) can be even more serious than the underlying DV charge and often results in more jail time than the defendant would have received for the underlying DV crime. Violent crimes are serious. Take them seriously by hiring a senior Seattle domestic violence defense lawyer with the experience and knowledge necessary to fight these cases. Contact the Law Office of Robert Perez for your free initial consultation. The Law Office of Robert Perez serves clients in Seattle, Washington, and throughout the greater Seattle-Eastside Metro area, including Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Issaquah, Sammamish, Tacoma, Renton, Kent, Auburn, Puget Sound, SeaTac, Federal Way, Puyallup, Everett, Lynnwood, Bothell, Marysville, Tukwila, Burien, Mt. Vernon, King County, Pierce County, Snohomish County, and Skagit Counties. Free Initial Consultation • We Accept Credit Cards Law Office of Robert Perez |
