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