We have handled thousands of domestic violence cases in Vancouver, WA.
What sets our law firm apart is the fact that we have handled domestic violence (DV) cases from both sides. Our lead defense lawyers are former Vancouver and Clark County Domestic Violence Unit prosecutors. Now, we defend people accused of domestic violence crimes.
Do I need an experienced attorney to defend against a DV charge?
Our past experience is important because it means we have invaluable knowledge about the way that the prosecuting attorney handles these cases. We know what issues they worry about, because we have worried about them. We know what techniques they use, because we have used them. We offer strong criminal defense because we know exactly what we are defending against.
Top-rated defense in the courtroom that you can trust.
What exactly is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is an issue that is commonly misunderstood. The label can be attached to any alleged crime committed against a family member, a household member, girlfriend, boyfriend, partner, significant other or even a former roommate.
Some examples of domestic violence charges include:
- Domestic violence assault (RCW 9A.36.041- Assault in the Fourth Degree)
- Harassment
- Trespassing
- Burglary
- Malicious mischief
No actual “violence” has to be committed for someone to be charged with a domestic violence crime. We also handle cases involving no-contact orders.
How serious is a Domestic Violence charge?
When the domestic violence label is attached to a criminal charge, the potential ramifications get much more serious. In addition to fines and potential jail time, you may have to deal with a no-contact order that keeps you away from your home and your children. You will lose the right to possess firearms, and you may have to take expensive and time-consuming perpetrator classes.
Furthermore, you will have domestic violence on your permanent record. Even if the only thing you did wrong was throw something against a wall, people looking at your record may interpret domestic violence as spousal abuse or something more serious.
"Jack Green provided highly professional representation on a legal matter that resulted in a very positive outcome for our family. He was consistently available to us as well as very supportive and kind throughout our work with him."
How can we help protect you from the potential consequences of a Domestic Violence charge?
Frequently, these domestic violence charges are the result of a misunderstanding. One spouse calls the police hoping they will come out and stop an argument. Unfortunately, when the police come, they usually have to take someone to jail. This is called a mandatory arrest and is often used in domestic violence calls. The alleged victim cannot drop the charges even if he or she decides later that it was all just a misunderstanding.
That is where we come in. Our experience in the field of domestic violence means that we know the steps to take to protect you from these serious charges. Let us get started defending you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence Criminal Defense
What qualifies as domestic violence under Washington law?
Domestic violence is broadly defined in Washington and can include physical harm, threats, intimidation, stalking, or other abusive behavior when it occurs between family or household members, intimate partners, or people who share a child in common.
How serious are domestic violence charges in Vancouver, WA?
Domestic violence charges can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Even a misdemeanor can result in jail time, fines, no-contact orders, mandatory counseling, and loss of firearm rights. Felony charges carry harsher penalties and longer-lasting consequences.
What are the consequences of a domestic violence conviction?
Beyond criminal penalties, a conviction may result in no-contact or restraining orders, mandatory treatment programs, difficulty securing employment, housing restrictions, and permanent loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to possess firearms.
Why should I hire Green, Ritchie & Bogar for domestic violence defense?
Our attorneys are former domestic violence prosecutors in Clark County. This experience gives us insight into how prosecutors build cases, allowing us to develop strong defense strategies tailored to protect our clients’ rights and future.
Can I be charged with domestic violence if I acted in self-defense?
Yes. Even if you acted to protect yourself, you may still face charges. A skilled domestic violence defense attorney can present evidence to show self-defense, challenge the prosecution’s version of events, and fight for dismissal or reduction of charges.
