Chapter 10.99 of the Revised Code of Washington governs how domestic violence cases in Tacoma and all throughout Washington move through the criminal courts. This law defines when a domestic violence designation applies to criminal offenses, and that designation changes how officers act at the scene, how fast a no-contact order takes effect, and what a conviction costs you.
What Is Considered Domestic Violence Under RCW 10.99?
Washington does not define domestic violence as a standalone crime. The designation attaches to an underlying offense when the people involved share a qualifying relationship, and prosecutors add it directly to the charge.
RCW 10.99.020 identifies a series of offenses that can carry this label, although this list is not exhaustive. Charges frequently filed with a domestic violence designation include:
- Assault in the first, second, third, or fourth degree
- Reckless endangerment and coercion
- Malicious mischief in the first, second, or third degree
- Criminal trespass, burglary, and residential burglary
- Kidnapping and unlawful imprisonment
- Stalking
- Interference with the reporting of domestic violence
- Violation of a no-contact, restraining, or protection order
Which Relationships Fall Under the Domestic Violence Statute?
Domestic violence charges apply when the parties involved share a certain relationship. RCW 10.99.020 sorts qualifying relationships into two groups:
- Family or Household Members: Adults related by blood or marriage, adults who live together now or did in the past, and people connected by a biological or legal parent-child relationship, including stepparents, stepchildren, grandparents, and grandchildren
- Intimate Partners: Spouses and domestic partners, former spouses and former domestic partners, people who share a child whether or not they ever married or lived together, and people 16 or older who are in or once were in a dating relationship
How Do Washington Police Officers Respond to Domestic Violence Crimes?
Officers responding to a domestic violence incident are directed to protect the complaining party. When probable cause exists that an assault occurred between qualifying parties within the past four hours, they must arrest the person they identify as the primary aggressor.
Once an arrest happens, the alleged victim cannot drop the case. That decision belongs to the prosecutor, and the court may impose a no-contact order that prevents the defendant from reaching out to the alleged victim in any form—in person, by phone or text, or through a friend or relative—and from returning to a residence the two share.
Long-Term Consequences for a Domestic Violence Conviction in Washington
Most domestic violence charges are gross misdemeanors punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. Felony convictions follow the state sentencing guidelines, where your standard range depends on the seriousness level of the offense:
- Class A Felonies: Up to life in prison and up to a $50,000 fine
- Class B Felonies: Up to 10 years in prison and up to a $20,000 fine
- Class C Felonies: Up to 5 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine
The consequences of a domestic violence conviction can outlast the sentence itself. A conviction may end your right to possess firearms, limit contact with your children, and surface during background checks for jobs, housing, and professional licenses.
Get Answers About Your Washington Domestic Violence Charge Today
If you are arrested on suspicion of domestic violence in Washington, The Law Offices of Mark S. Treyz can protect your rights and fight for your freedom. Contact us today to discuss your case and the defenses that may apply to it.