Skip to Content
!
Free Consultations
206-895-6800
  + 
    - 
* *Close*
* *Search*
  + Main Menu
* Call Us Today!
**Follow Us**
# Know the Facts for National Domestic Violence Awareness Month
1. 
2. 
3. 
4. 
5. Know the Facts for ...
October 07, 2020
|
By
Guadagno Law, PLLC
## Domestic Violence Awareness Month & COVID-19
October is , making it a critical time to discuss the alarming rates of domestic violence in King County and Seattle altogether. Domestic violence in the State of Washington is not new, as it has been deemed an “epidemic” for a while. When COVID-19 forced people to stay at home, however, the crime of domestic violence accelerated to record levels.
**As such, let’s** **look at the numbers****:**
*  happened in King County during the first nine months of 2020, 12 of which happened during COVID-19
* 28 violent domestic violence-related deaths occurred in King County during the first nine months of 2020
  + This statistic includes murder-suicides and other homicides committed by convicted domestic violence offenders
* 186 felony domestic violence cases were filed in March 2020 alone, which exceeds the monthly average of 150 cases
* Domestic violence cases comprised  between March and April of 2020, whereas they accounted for 22% in April 2019
* Within 24 hours, 10 domestic violence suspects went to jail and five new  were filed in April 2020
* A Bellevue Police spokesperson reported a 30% increase in violence since COVID-19
  + They also reported a 28% increase in felony  and a 17% increase in misdemeanor assaults
* Between March and July of this year, 985 online petitions for emergency protection orders were filed
As you can imagine, COVID-19 has placed extreme hardships on individuals and families alike. The pandemic has not only burdened our economy and public health but also caused increased isolation and stress. Millions of Americans are unemployed, quarantined, infected with COVID-19 and adjusting to virtual learning and working from home, for instance. This is why it is disturbing yet not surprising that domestic violence rates have sharply increased in Washington and throughout the nation.
**Victims are forced to stay home and risk exposure to violence by their perpetrators, making them feel like there is no way out. With tensions so high this year, it is crucial to be mindful of the following points to best avoid a domestic violence conviction:**
* Domestic violence is not just physical. According to the , it can also include:
  + isolation from friends and family
  + emotional abuse
  + monitoring
  + financial control
  + physical and sexual assault
* King County domestic violence victims can file for an emergency protection order (EPO) by phone or email rather than going to court, so you may get an unwelcome surprise from your alleged victim
* If you get an EPO against you, do not break the rules or respond in a way that may be perceived as domestic violence
* Heated arguments can be wrongfully perceived as domestic violence
* You may be wrongfully charged with domestic violence due to a spiteful ex or intimate partner
* It is vital to hire a Seattle criminal defense attorney if a protective order or domestic violence charge was filed against you
## Facing Domestic Violence Charges? Let a Former Prosecutor Fight for You.
Over the past 17 years in the legal profession, I have handled countless serious and complex domestic violence cases. Never have I seen such a high rate of domestic violence incidents reported in a short period of time, but I understand that COVID-19 can bring out the worst in people, both in reported domestic violence victims and abusers.
Like I mentioned above, false domestic violence charges as well as mere accidents can occur. But that does not mean your freedom and future should suffer. Everyone makes mistakes but also deserves a second chance, and I am here to fight for that possibility on your behalf.
**If you are accused of domestic violence, allow a**  **with nearly two decades of experience to defend your case. Contact  at (206) 895-6800 today!**
**Categories:**
* ,
**Share To:**
**Related Posts**
* [Jul 1, 2024
  **Common Defenses in Criminal Law: Self-Defense, Alibi, and More**
  read more
* [Apr 3, 2024
  **Should I Accept a Plea Bargain?**
* [Mar 4, 2024
  **When to Call a Criminal Defense Lawyer**
 /
Call Us Today!
* 1818 Westlake Ave. N.
   Suite 216
   Seattle, WA 98109
**Quick Links**
Search
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation.
This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.
© 2025 All Rights Reserved.
# Blogs from 2017
3. 2017
## Most Recent Posts from 2017
##### Categories
##### Archives
* [Aug 4, 2017
  **Is Shoplifting a Felony or a Misdemeanor**
* [Jun 9, 2017
  **Boating Under the Influence Laws in Washington**
# Blogs from August, 2017
4. August
## Most Recent Posts from August, 2017
# Is Shoplifting a Felony or a Misdemeanor
5. Is Shoplifting a ...
August 04, 2017
## Is Shoplifting a Crime?
In Washington, the crime of , like other , is classified based on its level of severity. Shoplifting is classified into 1st, 2nd, and 3rd degree, and can be charged as a gross misdemeanor up to a Class B  depending on the specifics of the crime.
If you have been accused of shoplifting, your first step should be to gather all the information you can to know just what you are up against as it is important to take this charge seriously.
### Theft in the 1st Degree
If the value of the property or services exceeds $5,000 (with the exception of a firearm or vehicle), it will be classified as 1st degree theft. As a Class B felony, the penalties can include:
* 10-year maximum jail sentence
* $20,000 fine
### Theft in the 2nd Degree
Theft in the 2nd degree can be charged if the property or services stolen is valued between $750 and $5,000. This is classified as a Class C felony and can be punished with:
* Up to 5 years in jail
* A fine of $10,000
### Theft in the 3rd Degree
If the property or service stolen is valued at less than $750, it is classified as a 3rd degree theft. This is a gross misdemeanor and can be punished with:
* A maximum of 364 days in jail
* A $5,000 fine
In most cases, shoplifting falls under the classification of 3rd degree theft, but that depends on the value of the property allegedly taken. In addition to the associated penalties for the particular classification, shoplifting charges can also have long-term and embarrassing impacts on one’s life.
If you are accused of shoplifting in the state of Washington, you are up against a difficult legal road, but with  by your side, you can have full confidence in obtaining the best possible outcome. Our Seattle criminal defense attorneys will do what it takes to pursue a reduction or dismissal of your charges.
### Questions Your Attorney May Ask
To adequately plan and prepare for your legal attack, following are some of the likely questions your attorney will ask to gain a clear perspective on your situation:
* Were you in the store when stopped?
* Had you already passed the checkout or register area of the store?
* Did the store supply shopping carts/baskets?
* Were you carrying a personal bag?
* Was it a mistake and you had intended to pay?
* Was the “off-limits” area clearly marked as such?
* Where were the items recovered from?
* Did you make any statements or admissions, and to whom?
 today to discuss your shoplifting crime and possible defenses.
# Blogs from June, 2017
4. June
## Most Recent Posts from June, 2017
# Boating Under the Influence Laws in Washington
5. Boating Under the ...
June 09, 2017
A long time tradition in the state of Washington involves drinking while navigating the waters throughout the state. Those who want to hold true to tradition should make sure that they are fully aware of the updated laws affecting drinking and boating this summer. In July 2013, a change in the law was made by state lawmakers to fight against impaired boating and at Guadagno & Virant, PLLC, we want to ensure that you are kept up-to-date on the laws that can affect you.
## Implied Consent in the BUI Law
Before this law was put into effect, boaters could fearlessly refuse a breath test. This was unlike a typical , where an individual would certainly have their license revoked for refusing to submit to a chemical test to assess their blood alcohol content (BAC) level. The new “implied consent” law is language added to RCW 79A.60.040. Under this law, anyone who is operating a vessel in any body of water has inherently consented to a breath or blood test.
If the arresting officer has found reasonable grounds to suspect the individual of boating under the influence, they are required to submit to a breath test through a BAC DataMaster testing unit. They do not, however, have to submit to the portable unit that is carried by marine patrols, though they can voluntarily do so. This means, they only have to submit when they are actually arrested. Refusal to submit to a chemical test makes that person guilty of a Class 1 civil infraction, which can result in a $1,000 penalty.
### Other Changes to the BUI Law
In addition to adding the “implied consent” portion to the statute, the new law also classifies  more harshly than before. This crime is now classified as a gross misdemeanor and carries a maximum penalty of 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine.
## Arrested for BUI? Contact Guadagno & Virant, PLLC
If you or a loved one has been arrested for boating under the influence or refusing to consent to a test, it is essential that you contact an experienced BUI lawyer at once. Every case is unique, and our Seattle criminal defense team can put together a unique strategy on your behalf. Our goal is to help our clients achieve the best possible outcome.  today to schedule your free initial case evaluation!