Know Your Rights: Domestic Violence

What Counts as Domestic Violence?

Under Washington law (RCW 7.105.010 and RCW 10.99.020), domestic violence can include:

Physical harm or threats of harm
Sexual assault or unwanted sexual contact
Stalking or repeated unwanted contact
Harassment (verbal, digital, or in person)
Coercive control — when someone uses intimidation, isolation, or controlling behavior to take away your freedom or independence

Domestic violence can happen between spouses, dating partners, ex-partners, family members, or people who live together.

Right to Call 911
You can call 911 at any time if you feel unsafe. Police must respond to domestic violence calls.

Right to a Protection Order
You can ask the court for a Protection Order (also called a Restraining Order) to help keep you safe. Protection orders can:
- Order the abuser not to contact you
- Remove the abuser from your home
- Give you temporary custody of children
- Restrict firearm access for the abuser
Right to Confidential Support
You can talk with an advocate at a shelter, hotline, or community program. What you share is private and confidential.
Right to Stay in Your Home or Leave Safely
Washington law allows you to end a lease early without penalty if you are experiencing domestic violence. You also have the right to change locks in some cases.
Right to Protection at Work
You may be able to take time off work (safe leave) to go to court, move, or get medical care related to domestic violence.
Right to a Fair Legal Process
You have the right to representation and to bring evidence in court. Advocates can help you understand the legal system.