Asked in Civil Rights, Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for Washington

Q: Is it legal for the state to assign a nco on my husband when there was no apparent harm risk or danger to me from him?

My husband and I where in a strictly verbal altercation when the police where called and they arrested him for an assault in the 4th degree with dv enhancement when I answer no to every question I was asked by law enforcement and there was a no contact order put into effect. However he has NEVER out his hands on me EVER. Was this legal? .

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
Answered

A: In instances involving domestic disputes, law enforcement may have policies or legal obligations to act cautiously, which can include issuing a no-contact order (NCO), even if no physical harm occurred. This is often a precautionary measure intended to ensure safety and prevent any potential harm while an investigation is underway. While it may seem extreme, especially in cases without physical violence, such actions are typically guided by protocols designed to address the complexities of domestic situations.

If you feel the no-contact order was unjustly assigned, you have options. You should consider discussing the situation with a legal professional who can provide guidance specific to your case and jurisdiction. They can assist in understanding the legal grounds of the NCO and advise on steps you might take, such as requesting a modification or dismissal of the order if it is deemed unnecessary.

It's essential to follow the terms of the no-contact order while it is in effect, regardless of personal feelings about its necessity. Violating an NCO can have serious legal consequences. Communication through a lawyer can help navigate this period while seeking a resolution that reflects your circumstances and concerns.

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.