Domestic Violence Protections
Legal Protection When You Need It Most
If you are experiencing domestic violence, emotional abuse, threats, or harassment — you are not alone. Washington State offers legal tools to help keep you and your children safe, and Yohana Valdez Law is here to help you access them with compassion and urgency.
We understand how difficult these situations can be, and we will guide you through the legal process calmly, respectfully, and without judgment.
What Is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence includes physical harm, threats, harassment, stalking, sexual assault, or coercive control by a partner, ex-partner, family member, or household member.
In Washington, legal protections apply to victims in intimate partner relationships, parent-child relationships, and certain other domestic or cohabiting relationships.
How We Can Help
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Filing for a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO)
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Requesting temporary custody and removal of the abuser from the home
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Modifying a Parenting Plan to reflect safety needs
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Connecting you with local shelters and support resources
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Navigating court hearings and helping you gather documentation
Types of Protection Orders
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Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPO)
For survivors of physical harm, threats, or abuse by a household member or romantic partner. -
Sexual Assault Protection Orders (SAPO)
For victims of non-consensual sexual contact, regardless of relationship. -
Stalking Protection Orders
For victims of repeated, unwanted attention or following that causes fear.
We’ll help you determine which order applies and support you in filing correctly and quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
A DVPO is a court order that can prohibit an abuser from contacting you, coming near you, or living in your home. It can also include temporary custody of children and require the abuser to surrender firearms.
You can request a DVPO if you’ve experienced domestic violence by someone you’ve had a romantic relationship with, lived with, or share a child with. Washington law also allows for protection orders against certain family members or household members.
Domestic violence includes physical harm, threats, emotional abuse, stalking, harassment, or sexual assault. You do not have to show visible injuries — fear, control, or intimidation may also qualify.
Courts in Washington can issue a temporary protection order the same day you file, often without notifying the other party first. A full hearing is usually scheduled within 14 days to determine whether the order should be extended.
Not always. While evidence like texts, photos, or police reports can be helpful, your personal statement is often enough to get a temporary order. We’ll help you prepare your story in a clear and persuasive way.
Yes, a hearing is typically required within two weeks to decide whether the order should be extended. We’ll be by your side during the process and can often help you avoid direct interaction with the abuser in court.
Yes. You can ask the court to include your children in the DVPO if they have been harmed, threatened, or exposed to abuse. You can also request temporary custody as part of the order.