Domestic Violence -
Getting Help

For a variety of reasons that stem from fear, dependence, embarrassment or self-blame, many domestic violence victims fail to report abuse, take preventative measures, or to follow up on actions against the perpetrators.

Choosing to take no action will not stop the cycle of the abuse, and often abuse will escalate. No one deserves to be beaten or threatened, and it's also against the law.

The following are meaningful actions you can take to stop the situation:

CONTACTING THE POLICE

Seattle Police Officers are well trained for Domestic Violence situations and understand many of the complexities of these cases. The Department has many resources to assist you:

If you are in immediate danger call 9-1-1

If you need advice on what to do call the Domestic Violence Investigation Unit at (206) 684-0330

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE POLICE RESPOND?

If the responding police officer believes a crime was committed, the officer will give a copy of the police report to the City or County Prosecutor for review. The prosecutor will decide whether to file criminal charges. As a victim of domestic violence, you can ask the City or County Prosecuting Attorney to file a criminal complaint.

The State of Washington has a mandatory arrest law related to domestic violence incidents that outlines when the police must make an arrest. If arrested, the abuser is usually held without bail until the first court appearance (usually 24-48 hours). You can give input at any hearing where bail or release is being considered.

WHO MIGHT CONTACT ME?

Domestic Violence Victim Advocate in the Criminal Justice System
In the criminal justice system, the Domestic Violence Victim Advocate is a professional who works within a prosecutor's office or police department to support and inform you through criminal proceedings. The advocate can provide information to you about your case, domestic violence, and safety options, as well as referrals to community advocacy programs and other services. The advocate can also provide your input to the prosecutor regarding safety concerns, No Contact Orders and other issues. It is important to keep the advocate and the prosecutor informed of your current address and phone number so they can update you on what is happening with your case.

Detective
The police report may be given to a detective for review. The detective may send the completed investigation. The detective may send the completed investigation to the prosecutor's office for review.

Defense Attorney
The abuser has the right to be represented by an attorney. This person is called the defense attorney. The defense attorney might attempt to contact you to discuss what happened. You have the right to have a prosecutor, advocate or a support person with you whenever a defense attorney or his/her investigator wishes to discuss the case with you. To request this, call you advocate or the prosecutor.

NO CONTACT and PROTECTION ORDERS

If the abuser is arrested for or charged with a domestic violence-related crime, a No Contact Order may be issued to prohibit the abuser from contacting you. When issuing a No Contact Order, the judge considers the input of the prosecutor and the victim, safety issues, and the Defendant's criminal history, as well as history of abuse. The judge may issue a No Contact Order whether or not you request one. Contact your advocate to discuss your wishes.

If a No Contact Order is issued, you will be sent a copy. If you are unsure whether a No Contact Order was issued, or you have not received your copy, please contact your advocate or the prosecutor. A violation of the No Contact Order is a crime. It is the Defendant's responsibility to follow the No Contact Order. Even if you invite contact, the Defendant could be arrested and charged with additional crimes. To report a violation, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Victims of Domestic Violence also have the right to file a petition requesting a Domestic Violence Protection Order. [Find out more].

CHOOSING TO LEAVE THE SITUATION

Leaving your partner is a critical time and requires careful preparation. Your partner may become violent if they discover that you are planning to leave. Being prepared to make a quick break away from the relationship is an important key to reducing the risk of violence.

• Be prepared before you leave. The safety planning and preparing to leave resources on this site can help you plan for a quick and safer way to leave.
  

• You should not undertake this alone. Use trusted friends, support services and Police Department resources to create a network of support and safety that you can rely on.

• If you leave, please call the Seattle Police non-emergency number (206) 625-5011 to tell the police your new address and phone number where you can be reached. This information will be confidential.

• In Domestic Violence situations, firearms can be voluntarily surrendered to the Seattle Police Department. [Find out more]

POLICE RESPONSE:

If you are in immediate danger call 9-1-1

Seattle Police
Domestic Violence Unit
(206) 684-0330
Monday 8am - 5pm

Seattle Police
Victim Support Team
(206) 684-7721 (voicemail)
Friday 7pm - 3 am
Saturday 11am - 3am
Sunday 11am - 12am

Washington State
24-Hour Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-562-6025

SHELTER:

New Beginnings
24-Hour Domestic Violence Hotline
(206) 522-9472

Crisis Clinic Emergency Shelter Resources

JAIL INFORMATION:

King County Jail
To verify if an individual is in custody:
(206) 296-1234 or access the jail registry online at:
www.metrokc.gov/dad
/inmatelookup/

V.I.N.E System:
1 (877) 425-VINE (8463)
www.vinelink.com
To register for automatic notification of an inmates release.

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