Restraining Order Violations
Restraining orders are taken out for a variety of reasons relating to percieved harassment and domestic situations. The specific claims alleged in any restraining order may differ from case to case, one thing is constant: they are court orders that must be followed. If you are charged with being in violation of a restraining order in Washington, you need legal advice from an experienced WA criminal attorney. Call today so we can help.
Charged with a crime in Washington? Call now. (888) 246-5778.
Even if a restraining order is wrongfully, falsely, or illegitimately issued, the restrictions must be followed, or aggressive criminal prosecution will result.
Any case surrounding violation of a protection orders shows a messy situation. The problems are often emotionally charged due to the relationship between the parties involved. You may have the best intentions, but those intentions will be blurred by the complex history that led to the protective order in the first place.
It is very possible to violate a restraining order by accident, or in a situation that is in no way your fault. Unfortunately, even in clear cut cases, it can take aggressive legal action to clear your name and fix this problem. When you are accused of a crime in Washington state, contact our experienced defense lawyers for a case evaluation and free consultation to discuss all your legal options.
Washington State Restraining Order Laws & Restrictions
Restraining orders don’t just keep people apart; they can also do things like:
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Although restraining orders are typically taken out for one year, they are often extended for longer periods of time as the court and parties involved see fit.
Violation of a Restraining Order – Penalties in WA
Under most circumstances, if you are found in violation of a restraining order, you will be charged with a gross misdemeanor and face a potential one year jail sentence as well as fines up to $5,000.
However, if this isn’t your first violation you will face felony charges. Felony violation of a restraining order is a Class C felony and is punishable by up to one year in prison, community service, fines, and up to one year under community supervision.
Ref: RCW 26.50.110
Accused of a Restraining Order Violation? Free Consultation in WA
You may believe that you were wrongly accused of the actions that brought about the restraining order, and you may be correct. But this is the kind of criminal offense that prosecutors are likely to fight to the bitter end if they aren’t aggressively challenged in court.
Facing a charge like this can be emotionally and mentally draining. We know, we have handled many cases like this before. We also know that an experienced attorney can take some of the burden off of you, and get you the fair treatment in court you deserve. Call for a consultation on your case today.
