Tacoma Domestic Violence Charges FAQ

Domestic violence offenses are crimes that involve the abuse of a spouse, family member, or other household member. A domestic violence conviction in Tacoma can significantly impact a defendant’s life, freedom, and reputation. If someone has filed domestic violence charges against you, a Tacoma domestic violence attorney can help you defend your rights. Contact the Law Offices of Mark S. Treyz today to discuss your case.

When Can Domestic Violence Charges Be Dismissed?

Victims cannot drop domestic violence charges. The only party with the power to drop the charges is the prosecution. However, the criminal courts may later dismiss the charges for a number of reasons.

• If the alleged victims fail to appear for depositions
• Alleged victims change their version of events
• Alleged victims do not cooperate/wish to drop the case
• Alleged victims use their 5^th Amendment right not to speak
• Lack of admissible evidence
• Wrong defendant
• Proof of fabricated or mistaken assault reports
• Alternative resolution, such as counseling

These are some of the most common reasons behind domestic violence charge dismissals. If the prosecution does not have enough evidence or the alleged victims do not cooperate, it can be impossible to fulfill the burden of proof. This can lead to charge dismissal and no consequences for the defendant.

Does Domestic Violence Require Evidence?

Yes, it takes evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed the act of domestic violence in question. It is the prosecutor’s burden of proof to demonstrate that the defendant is guilty of the alleged crime. Fulfilling this burden takes showing admissible evidence that establishes the defendant’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt. Evidence may include eyewitness statements, medical records or photographs documenting victims’ injuries, prior domestic violence allegations or phone calls to police, and testimony from experts.

How to Get a Domestic Violence Charge Dismissed

As a defendant, getting domestic violence charges dismissed may take help from a Tacoma domestic violence lawyer. Hiring a lawyer can greatly improve your odds of a successful defense. Your attorney can help you take steps that can increase the likelihood of the courts dismissing the charges against you. These steps may include convincing the victim to drop the charges, remain silent, or agree to an alternative resolution. Other solutions can include proving that prosecutors arrested the wrong person or do not have enough evidence to validate the charge.

Domestic abuse charges in Tacoma are gross misdemeanors. Hiring a lawyer is the number one step toward getting the charges dismissed. An attorney can explore all available defense strategies for your particular case. He or she can also give you counsel on how to proceed. You may receive helpful advice such as not posting about your case on social media, or not speaking to police officers without your attorney present. Working with a lawyer can help you avoid common mistakes and make your defense as strong as possible.

How Often Does Domestic Violence Occur?

Statistics show a high rate of domestic violence in the United States. Nearly 20 people suffer physical domestic abuse per minute, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. This equates to over 10 million victims per year. On an average day, people place more than 20,000 phone calls to domestic violence hotlines nationwide. Around 15% of all violent crime in the U.S. falls under the category of domestic violence. The true statistics for domestic violence are likely even higher. Only about 34% of injured domestic violence victims seek medical care.

Who Is More Likely to Commit Domestic Violence?

Men are more likely than women to commit domestic violence. However, men can also be victims of violence by intimate partners. Women are more likely to become victims: one in four women experience severe intimate partner violence or stalking, while one in nine men can say the same. One in seven women have suffered injuries from an intimate partner, compared to one in twenty-five men.

If you are facing domestic violence charges in the State of Washington, it’s important to know that you’re in good hands. Contact our office today at (253) 272-8666. We will ensure that you get the justice that you deserve.