Quick Info:
- DV is broadly defined.
- Includes all household members, even roomates.
- Includes all dating relationships.
What is a Washington Domestic Violence Crime?
In Washington DV stands for domestic violence and is a label attached to certain types of cases as they are processed through the legal system. This label can be attached to misdemeanors and felonies.
Washington law defines a domestic violence crime as any crime when committed by one family or household member against another or against someone with whom you have a "dating relationship". RCW 10.99.020
A "family or household member" means:
- a spouse
- former spouse
- people who have a child in common
- adults related by blood or marriage
- adults who are presently living together or who have lived together in the past
- people sixteen years of age or older who are living together or have lived together in the past
- people sixteen years of age or older who have or have had a dating relationship
- people who have a parent-child relationship (biological or legal). This includes stepparents, stepchildren, grandparents and grandchildren.
A "dating relationship" means a social relationship of a romantic nature. To determine if a "dating relationship" exists the court may consider; (1) the length of time the relationship has existed, (2) the nature of the relationship, and (3) the frequency of interaction between the parties. RCW 26.50.010
