Domestic violence covers a wide range of criminal activity involving a household or family member. It also includes violence against current or previous spouses, intimate partners, and people with whom you share a child. Examples of crimes that could result in domestic violence charges include, but are not limited to, assault, harassment, stalking, sex offenses, and kidnapping. A conviction for domestic violence can result in severe penalties.
In this blog, our Seattle criminal defense attorney discusses one of those penalties in more detail – mandatory counseling and rehabilitation programs.
What Are the Penalties for A Domestic Violence Conviction in Seattle, WA?
The penalties for a domestic violence conviction can be severe. The charge depends on the underlying crime and the factors of the case. However, domestic violence may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. A misdemeanor conviction could result in up to one year in jail and a fine of $5,000. Felony convictions carry prison sentences based on the class of felony. For example, a Class B felony could result in up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.
In addition to fines and incarceration, a conviction for domestic violence can also result in a no-contact order, community service, loss of gun rights, probation, and court-ordered counseling. Collateral consequences may include restrictions on custody rights, revocation of a professional license, and immigration consequences for non-citizens.
Counseling and Rehabilitation Included in Domestic Violence Sentences
As part of your sentence, you must complete a twelve-month state-approved Domestic Violence Batterer’s Treatment Program. Even though you are ordered to attend treatment, you must pay for the treatment yourself.
Domestic violence crimes often involve complicated issues that cannot adequately be addressed with fines and prison. In some cases, domestic violence may be a single event that was precipitated by the abuser being drunk or on drugs. In other cases, domestic violence is a long-term pattern of behavior that can only change with therapy and treatment.
Counsel and rehabilitation play an important role in domestic violence cases. It seeks to help the abuser take accountability for their actions while exploring the issues that led to the abusive behaviors. The programs teach individuals to identify and recognize their triggers and how to form and maintain healthy relationships.
In addition to counseling and rehabilitation, a judge may include other forms of counseling and treatment. A sentence may include the requirement to complete anger management counseling or a drug/alcohol treatment program. Counseling and rehabilitation aim to reduce the chance of violence by giving offenders the resources, tools, and support they need to find healthier ways to deal with problems.
Protecting Your Rights if You Are Arrested for Domestic Violence in Seattle, WA, With the Help of a Seattle Criminal Defense Attorney
Counseling and rehabilitation sessions meet weekly for a year. Before you plead guilty to charges and accept the court’s punishment, talk with a Seattle domestic violence defense lawyer. There could be one or more defenses to the charges. Defenses to domestic violence include, but are not limited to:
- Insufficient evidence to support the allegations
- Evidence you have been wrongfully accused
- The alleged victim has a history of filing false accusations
- The alleged victim is making up the allegations to gain leverage in a family court matter
The best way to protect your freedom and rights is with the help of an experienced defense lawyer. Contact Jennifer Horwitz Law to schedule a free consultation with our Seattle criminal defense attorney.