What is the maximum sentence for domestic violence in Washington?

Under RCW § 10.99.020; RCW § 9A.36.041 (Gross Misdemeanor), Washington domestic violence carries a maximum sentence of 364 days and a maximum fine of $5,000.

Does Washington have a mandatory minimum for domestic violence?

Washington does not impose a blanket mandatory minimum for simple domestic violence. Specific charges or enhancements may carry their own minimums.

What factors enhance a domestic violence charge in Washington?

In Washington, domestic violence penalties can be enhanced by: Prior DV convictions (enhanced sentencing); Strangulation (elevated to Assault 2 — Class B Felony); Violation of no-contact order.

Washington Domestic Violence Law

Washington Domestic Violence Defense

What you're facing under RCW § 10.99.020; RCW § 9A.36.041, how the penalties scale, and the questions your attorney needs to answer, specific to Washington (WA) domestic violence law.

Offense Class

Gross Misdemeanor

Maximum Penalty

364 days

Maximum Fine

$5,000

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Federal Firearms Prohibition (Lautenberg Amendment)

A conviction for misdemeanor domestic violence in Washington carries a federalfirearms-possession ban under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9). This consequence is collateral to Washington state penalties and applies regardless of the state sentence imposed.

Penalty Range in Washington

StatuteRCW § 10.99.020; RCW § 9A.36.041 — Domestic Violence — Assault in the Fourth Degree

Minimum Penalty

Maximum Penalty364 days

Maximum Fine$5,000

Charge Enhancements

These factors can elevate the charge or penalty in Washington:

Prior DV convictions (enhanced sentencing)
Strangulation (elevated to Assault 2 — Class B Felony)
Violation of no-contact order

Washington-Specific Detail

DV is a designation, not a separate crime. Mandatory arrest policy under RCW § 10.31.100. Firearms surrender required. No-contact order issued automatically.

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Important: This page provides legal INFORMATION about Washington domestic violence 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.