22 January, 2021

What is the punishment for domestic violence and how can domestic violence charges affect one’s future? 

Domestic violence charges are extremely serious and should never be handled callously. This is because domestic violence charges (whether a misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor) have the potential to damage your life and livelihood immediately and in the future. 

Continue reading to learn more about what the punishment for domestic violence is or give Leyba Defense a call to speak with a seasoned criminal defense attorney about your case. 

Punishment for Domestic Violence

What Is The Punishment For Domestic Violence?

The punishment for domestic violence charges includes a fine, jail time, and a certain set of limitations on a person’s future. 

While fines and jail time are usually extreme, these both pale in comparison to the damage that domestic violence charges can do to your future life and livelihood. Career prospects, child-visitation rights, the ability to own firearms, and more are affected due to domestic violence charges. 

At Leyba Defense, our law firm has been working for more than a decade to deliver justice for our clients. If you’d like to schedule a consultation with an expert domestic violence defense attorney, Matthew Leyba, give Leyba Defense a call at 206-429-4264 today. 

Domestic Violence Sentencing

What are the punishments for domestic violence? Domestic violence penalties vary depending on a number of factors. To understand why domestic violence sentencing can change, let’s first take a look at the definition of domestic violence:

Domestic violence is defined as causing physical harm, injury, assault, or when a member of a household fears for their physical safety due to the behavior of another household member. 

The typical punishment for domestic violence charges includes:

  • Misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor charges. 
  • Fines. These fines range from $1,000 to up to $5,000.
  • Jail time. Ranging from 90 days to over a year. 

To learn more about the particulars regarding what is the average jail sentence for domestic violence, continue reading or give Leyba Defense a call today.  

Domestic Violence Jail Time

What is the sentence for domestic violence? 

Depending on whether the domestic violence charge is classified as a misdemeanor or a gross misdemeanor, the jail time length will vary.

Let’s take a look at both misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors when it comes to domestic abuse jail time. 

  • Misdemeanor domestic violence charges: up to 90 days in jail along with a $1,000 fine. 
  • Gross misdemeanor domestic violence charges: up to 365 days in jail plus a $5,000 fine. 

Other Punishments For Domestic Violence

Another ramification of being charged with domestic violence in Washington State is that individuals found guilty of domestic violence will no longer be allowed to possess a firearm or get a concealed weapon permit. 

Attempting to purchase a firearm or get a concealed weapon permit will result in offenders being charged with a felony. 

Contact A Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence or other criminal charges, get the legal help you need by contacting Leyba Defense today. 

Matthew Leyba is an experienced criminal defense attorney who has helped countless clients work through criminal charges. 

If you would like to schedule your first consultation (free of charge) with Matthew Leyba, give Leyba Defense a call at 206-429-4264 today.