Orders of Protection

Domestic violence charges can have a serious impact on the rest of your life. If you have questions about domestic violence issues, contact our firm to schedule a consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney today.

Defense of Domestic Violence Allegations in the Seattle Area

If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence, you should know about the many ways that a conviction can haunt the rest of your life.

Domestic violence can affect the outcome of an impending divorce and your child custody rights, and separate you from those you love.

These negative outcomes don't have to happen. In greater Seattle, the domestic violence and criminal defense attorney to speak with is Peter P. Bonnell in Bellevue.

Your initial consultation is always free of charge. Contact us at 1-888-339-5987 to speak with our experienced Washington lawyer.

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For more than 15 years of practice in western Washington, the law office of Peter P. Bonnell has protected the rights of those falsely accused of domestic violence.

Have you been wrongfully accused of spousal or child abuse, stalking, harassment or sexual assault? You need to discuss your case with attorney Bonnell right away.

Domestic violence can tear a family apart.

Bellevue defense attorney Peter P. Bonnell can defend you against "he said, she said" allegations of domestic violence. Our skilled lawyer knows what is at stake in your case, and protects your rights accordingly.

If you have been charged with domestic violence or fourth degree assault, you should schedule your free initial consultation with Peter P. Bonnell. 1-888-339-5987.

Protective orders are used to prevent contact between victims and alleged domestic violence abusers. These orders can have a serious impact on the freedoms and abilities of those who are subject to them and can affect divorce and child custody proceedings. Contact Law Office of Peter P. Bonnell in Bellevue, Washington to learn more about the consequences a protective order can have for you or a family member.

What is a Protective Order?

Victims of domestic violence can petition the court for a protective order to stop threatening or harassing behavior. The behavior complained of does not have to be physical violence. To issue the order, the court must be convinced by sufficient evidence that the petitioner has been abused or has been credibly threatened with violence. Protective orders are usually issued for a limited amount of time, but also may be permanent. They generally require someone accused of domestic abuse to stop the abuse and also may require:

Vacating the residence
Prohibiting contact with the victim
Avoiding the victim's premises
Returning personal property and/or marital property
Paying child support and/or spousal support
Paying the mortgage or other bills
Attending counseling for domestic violence, anger management, drug or alcohol abuse

In order to enter a protective order against someone, he or she must receive notice of the order and be given an opportunity to challenge the order. In some instances, however, the court may issue an emergency temporary protective order ("ex parte order") without providing notice or an opportunity to be heard to the alleged abuser. In these cases, the court will set a date for a formal hearing to provide the alleged abuser with notice and the chance to defend himself or herself.

Who Do Protective Orders Apply To?

For the court to issue the order, the parties must have an eligible relationship under the state's domestic violence statute. This usually includes:

Spouses
Ex-spouses
Live-in boyfriends or girlfriends
People who share a child
Family relations, including parents, children, stepchildren

Some statutes require that the parties to the order currently live with one another, or lived with one another at one time or have access to the home residence. In other jurisdictions, the residence does not matter or only matters if parents, children or other relatives are the subject of the order.

Violating the Terms of a Protective Order

It is very important to follow all of the requirements of a protective order. Violating the terms in any way is a violation of the law and can result in criminal penalties, including jail time. If someone crosses state lines and violates a valid protection order, he or she also may be subject to federal penalties in addition to state penalties.

Conclusion

The terms of a protective order need to be taken seriously. For more information on protective orders, contact Law Office of Peter P. Bonnell in Bellevue, Washington to speak with an attorney with experience in this area of the law.

DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.

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