Many people incorrectly believe that domestic violence (DV) is a title to a crime. A domestic violence (DV) designation can be added to any crime where the alleged vitim is a person who fits the legal definition of a family or household member. For example, if you are alleged to have stolen money from a parent, the alleged crime charged might be Theft (DV). When individuals are charged with a crime involving an allegation of domestic violence, often listed as DV on a ticket or charging document, there can be additional penalties and consequences to the defendant. Although the DV designation can be added to any crime, it is most often associated with assault in the fourth degree. Consequences of a conviction with a DV designation can include a loss of a person’s constitutional right to bear arms, making a strong defense against any such charge a matter of crucial importance. It is important to be aware that with regard to assault
charges in the State of Washington, the law provides that in the event that a person successfully defends against any such charge in court, and a jury finds that the defendant was acting in his or her self-defense or defense of others or of the defendant’s property, the defendant is entitled to reimbursement from the State of Washington for all expenses and costs incurred in the defense of that prosecution, which can include all attorney’s fees, lost wages, and any other cost incurred as a result of the need to defend against such a charge.