Protection Orders in Washington

Protection Orders in Washington

In the State of Washington, various types of Protection Orders exist to safeguard individuals and discourage certain behaviors directed towards them. These orders serve as legal measures to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals facing different forms of threats or harassment. Among the commonly encountered types are: (1) Stalking Protection Order, (2) Harassment Protection Order, (3) Domestic Violence Protection Order, (4) Sexual Assault Protection Order, and (5) Vulnerable Adult Protection Order. Understanding the difference between these types of protection orders allows individuals to protect themselves in various ways depending on the specific circumstance. Equally important is being well-informed about these orders, as it helps individuals comprehend the potential consequences associated with violating a Protection Order.

What is a Protection Order?

A Protection Order, issued by a judge, is a legal document designed to safeguard individuals from harm by another person. When a Protection Order is in effect, the restrained individual is prohibited from contacting or being in close proximity to the protected individual, under penalty of potential consequences. In the State of Washington, there are several distinct types of Protection Orders, each tailored to address specific circumstances and provide appropriate measures of protection.

Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO): Among the prevalent types of Protection Orders, the Domestic Violence Protection Order stands as one of the most common. It is primarily intended to shield individuals from physical abuse, threats of imminent harm, or stalking, and is typically sought against immediate family members, intimate partners, or roommates. A Domestic Violence Protection Order can be requested on a temporary basis, lasting up to one year, and is renewable. In certain circumstances, it can also be pursued as a permanent measure for long-term protection.

Stalking Protection Order: A Stalking Protection Order is specifically crafted to safeguard individuals from individuals engaging in stalking behavior, regardless of their familial or household relationship. In accordance with the Revised Code of Washington, stalking is defined as the intentional and repetitive act of harassing or following another person, thereby causing the victim to experience fear for their personal safety or the safety of their property. This type of Protection Order can be obtained on a temporary basis, valid for up to one year, or can be sought as a permanent measure to provide long-term protection.

Harassment Protection Order: A Harassment Protection Order is specifically designed to provide protection from individuals engaging in unlawful behavior or harassment towards another individual. Harassment is defined as a course of conduct which seriously alarms, annoys, harasses, or is detrimental to such person, and which serves no legitimate or lawful purpose. This type of order aims to prevent and address acts of harassment, ensuring the safety and well-being of the victim. An Anti-Harassment Protection Order can be obtained as a temporary measure, valid for up to one year, or it can be pursued as a permanent order to offer ongoing protection.

Sexual Assault Protection Order(SAPO): A Sexual Assault Protection Order is specifically designed to provide protection against nonconsensual intercourse or other forms of unwanted sexual conduct perpetrated by individuals who are not family or household members. This type of protection order serves to safeguard victims and ensure their safety in the face of sexual assault. It can be requested as a temporary order, valid for up to one year, or pursued as a permanent order to provide ongoing and long-term protection.

Vulnerable Adult Protection Order (VAPO): A Vulnerable Adult Protection Order is specifically designed to safeguard individuals who are considered vulnerable adults from threats, acts of abandonment, neglect, abuse, or financial exploitation. In the state of Washington, a “vulnerable adult” refers to an adult with developmental disabilities, an adult residing in a facility or receiving in-home care, or an adult aged 60 or above who is unable to independently care for themselves. While Protection Orders typically prohibit all forms of contact, a Vulnerable Adult Protection Order may allow for limited contact while imposing restrictions on access to the vulnerable adult’s financial resources. The primary objective of this order is to ensure the well-being and protection of vulnerable adults in situations where they may be at risk.

What can we do for you?

Petitioning for a Protection Order can be a complex and intricate process that may pose challenges when undertaken alone. It entails navigating legal paperwork, articulating compelling justifications, and presenting arguments for the requested Protection Order. To streamline this process and alleviate the burden, enlisting the assistance of a skilled lawyer can prove invaluable. By engaging the services of experienced attorneys, such as those at the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, individuals can benefit from the expertise and guidance necessary to effectively pursue and secure their desired Protection Order. The knowledgeable legal professionals at the firm will diligently gather the required information, ensuring a comprehensive and compelling case for the Protection Order, ultimately increasing the chances of obtaining approval from the presiding judge.

Call the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer at (360) 334-6277 today and schedule a consultation to see what we can do for you.