No Contact Orders

Washington courts have the authority to issue orders prohibiting contact in a variety of circumstances.  These orders may be issued in the following situations:

• When an individual (the petitioner) requests that the court issue an order preventing another person (the respondent) from having any contact with them.
• When a criminal charge has been filed and the court issues an order for the protection of someone.  In this circumstance the court can (and generally will) issue such an order even if the people involved want to have contact and object to the order.

These orders generally prohibit all contact of any kind (including, but not limited to, phone calls, letters, email, text messages and contact through a third party) and may restrict your ability to come within a certain distance of someone’s home, work or school.

These orders should be taken VERY seriously and abided by carefully.  Violating these orders is a crime even if the other party does not want the order in place and wishes or invites contact.  It is not a legal defense to the criminal charge that the contact was wanted or invited and judges and prosecutors are rarely sympathetic to this argument.

Unfortunately, if the court issues an order that prevents you from contacting someone you live with – you will need to make alternative housing arrangements.  You can request a "civil standby" which is an opportunity to enter your home for a short period of time with a law enforcement escort, to retrieve some necessary personal belongings.

It is very important to consult with an attorney if you find yourself facing such an order.  An attorney who is experienced in dealing with Washington domestic violence cases and these orders can explain exactly what your rights and responsibilities are, and can help you fight to have such an order lifted or modified.