Vashon, WA asked in Domestic Violence for Washington

Q: Will signing an affidavit hurt me as a victim?

I lived with my boyfriend, my dad and sister. Sister has drug/alcohol abuse problems. She came home one night and attacked each of us. After some time trying to diffuse the violence, I called 911 since sister and potentially father were injured. Police showed up and questioned all of us, resulting in my sisters being arrested. She got released the next day and has trail due in a month. My dad wants me to sign a affidavit to recant our statements to hope the prosecutor would reduce/drop the charges.

My problem is my sister is injured, and I was asked by police during the interview the night of if I strangled her and if I started the fight. Im afraid her statement to police that night would indicate I was the aggressor if I recant my statement via affidavit. Despite my fear, I dont want her to be prosecuted, and the affidavit supposedly would help.

Whats your opinion, would signing the affidavit help my sister, or would it only incriminate me?

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1 Lawyer Answer
Cristine Beckwith
PREMIUM
Cristine Beckwith
Answered
  • Domestic Violence Lawyer
  • Tacoma, WA
  • Licensed in Washington

A: Sorry to hear. Do not sign anything without the guidance of an attorney representing you.

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