A no contact order prohibits a defendant in a criminal case from contacting the petitioner or plaintiff (usually the victim of the crime) while the criminal case is pending. No contact orders are common in disputes involving assault and domestic violence.
No matter what situation you are in, the lawyers at Feldman & Lee PS will help you obtain as much protection as possible. We can help you understand your options, secure a no contact order, and assist you throughout any stage of your domestic violence legal concern.
Areas we serve
A No Contact Order may be requested by the victim if the defendant has been arrested or issued a citation. It can also be filed as part of the sentencing for a criminal offense.
Feldman & Lee PS helps clients file a petition for a no contact order in King County and Snohomish County courts, including Kent, Everett, and Lynnwood. We will help you navigate the legal system, promptly respond to all your questions, and provide sound guidance during this difficult time.
Understanding no contact orders in Washington State
A No Contact Order prohibits engagement by any means, including:
- Visits and physical contact
- Text, e-mail, and social media
- Through a third party
The abusive party is not allowed to contact you while the criminal case against them is active or beyond that, if ordered by the court. If this person resides in your dwelling, they may be ordered to move out for you and your children’s safety.
The court may grant a no contact protective order during one of the following events:
- The court formally charges the defendant during their arraignment.
- The defendant is released on bail or personal recognizance.
- The defendant is sentenced for the criminal offense in question.
Violations and penalties
Like most protection orders, a violation of a No Contact Order is classified as a gross misdemeanor in Washington State. Penalties may include a $5000 fine and up to one year in jail.
Firearm restrictions may also be enforced if the court is made aware that the defendant or respondent has access to firearms and poses a danger to the safety of the victim or petitioner.
A Class C felony will be charged if the accused has two prior convictions for violating a No Contact Order or Civil Protection Order. An order violation involving an assault will also be classified as a felony and is punishable by a $10,000 fine and up to 5 years in prison.
How long does a no contact order last?
There are two kinds of no contact orders in Washington State namely, Pre-Trial and Post Conviction.
Pre-trial No Contact Order – Courts can issue this NCO against a defendant accused of a crime if the victim requests it. It remains active until a Judge orders it lifted or a final resolution has been made.
Post-Conviction No Contact Order – Issued after the accused has pleaded guilty to or been found guilty of a crime. This type of no contact order may remain in place for at least a year.
A No-Contact Order can be modified anytime during a pending criminal case. A positive evaluation by a WA State-certified treatment agency or a lack of solid criminal history can shape the court’s decision to lift or change the No Contact Order.
Why legal counsel is a must
It is easy to confuse a no contact order with other protection orders that are used in civil actions. A seasoned attorney can help you learn more about no contact orders, pursue one if it is appropriate for your situation, and help you prove to the court that you are in need of legal protection.
At Feldman & Lee PS, we will complete all the necessary paperwork for you and ensure that the order covers all of the restrictions necessary to keep you and your children safe.
On the other hand, if you find yourself facing charges related to restraining orders, we are ready to represent you as well.
Dedicated protection order attorneys in Kent, Everett, and Lynnwood
Feldman & Lee PS can assist you in filing a protection order in King County and Snohomish County courts, including Kent, Everett, and Lynnwood. We will help petition the court on your behalf and legally prevent the defendant from contacting you by any means.
Likewise, we can help you know your rights, responsibilities, and options if a no contact order is placed against you or if you have been accused of a no-contact order violation.
- Over 40 years of experience – Our meticulous team works together tirelessly to offer experienced and aggressive legal representation no matter your circumstance.
- Thorough and trustworthy – We focus on problem-solving and employ a client-first approach to obtain positive outcomes even in the most complex cases.
Ensure your safety and well-being
By seeking a no contact order, you no longer have to live in fear for your safety. In many cases, simply having a no contact order served on the perpetrator can influence them to change their behavior and stop threatening you.
Our firm has decades of experience assisting clients in Washington State. We have a deep understanding of the system and the processes involved in obtaining protection orders. Our lawyers will aggressively fight for your right to safety from the perpetrator.
Get professional legal advice
During this challenging time in your life, it can be comforting to know a reliable legal advisor is on your side.
At Feldman & Lee PS, we care about your safety and well-being. Count on us to protect your best interests and answer any questions you might have as you pursue or defend against no contact orders.
Schedule a consultation today and obtain skilled advocacy associated with protective orders and criminal law cases.
