What legal recourse can victims of domestic abuse pursue?

Victims of domestic abuse in Washington are protected by a combination of state and federal laws. Depending on the severity of the abuse, victims may pursue a range of legal remedies. One option available to victims of domestic abuse is a restraining order. A restraining order is a court order which prohibits the perpetrator from having any contact with the victim. This includes in-person contact, telephone calls, emails, text messages, and any other form of communication. The restraining order may also include provisions allowing the victim to remain in the home while the perpetrator is evicted. Victims may also pursue criminal charges against their abuser. Depending on the severity of the abuse, the perpetrator could face a range of criminal charges, including assault and battery, kidnapping, or even murder. In Washington, domestic violence is a felony offense and carries a prison sentence of up to 10 years. Finally, victims may pursue civil lawsuits against their abuser. In a civil lawsuit, the victim may seek monetary damages for medical expenses, lost wages, or emotional distress. In Washington, the court system takes allegations of domestic abuse seriously. There are dedicated courts and court services available to assist victims of domestic abuse in taking legal action against their abuser.

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What legal recourse can victims of domestic abuse pursue?

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