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Washington Assault Law

Washington Assault Defense

What you're facing under RCW § 9A.36.041, how the penalties scale, and the questions your attorney needs to answer, specific to Washington (WA) law.

Offense Class

Gross Misdemeanor; Class C Felony (against certain protected persons)

Maximum Penalty

364 days (gross misdemeanor); 5 years (felony)

Maximum Fine

$5,000 (gross misdemeanor); $10,000 (felony)

Penalty Range in Washington

StatuteRCW § 9A.36.041 — Assault in the Fourth Degree
Minimum Penalty
Maximum Penalty364 days (gross misdemeanor); 5 years (felony)
Maximum Fine$5,000 (gross misdemeanor); $10,000 (felony)

Charge Enhancements

These factors can elevate the charge or penalty in Washington:

  • Domestic violence designation (mandatory arrest under RCW § 10.31.100)
  • Against first responder, transit operator, or school employee (Class C Felony)

Washington-Specific Detail

Assault 4 is the catch-all assault charge. Domestic violence assault 4 triggers mandatory arrest, no-contact orders, and firearms surrender.

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Important: This page provides legal INFORMATION about Washington assault possession law as of the date of publication. Laws change frequently. This is not legal advice. The analysis draws on methods developed by defense attorneys, applied to public data. Your attorney remains the final authority on defense direction.