Domestic violence is never easy to confront, and for many in Bellevue, the first step, asking for help, can feel overwhelming. Washington law offers strong protections, but understanding what qualifies, what resources exist, and how courts handle protection orders can help you feel less alone in the process. Associate Attorney Zoey Salsbury of Modern Family Law shares what every Bellevue resident should know.
Washington now uses a unified process for filing civil protection orders, which simplifies things for people seeking help. Depending on your relationship to the person causing harm and the type of behavior involved, you may qualify for a Domestic Violence Protection Order, Anti-Harassment Order, Stalking Protection Order, or Sexual Assault Protection Order.
As Zoey notes, “People sometimes worry they’ll pick the wrong form and get denied, but in Washington, commissioners are trained to reclassify a petition into the correct type of order so you don’t have to start over. The system is designed to get you protection, not send you away on a technicality.”
Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO): For abuse or threats from a partner, ex, or family/household member.
Anti-Harassment Order: For ongoing unwanted contact that causes fear or distress.
Stalking Protection Order: For repeated following, surveillance, or intimidation.
Sexual Assault Protection Order: For unwanted sexual conduct — no relationship required.
Many people hesitate to seek protection because they assume their experience “doesn’t count” as domestic violence. In Washington, however, the legal definition is much broader than most realize. Abuse doesn’t have to be physical, and it doesn’t have to come from a romantic partner.
If you share a household, even as roommates, and someone threatens, harasses, controls, or intimidates you, you may qualify for legal protection. Even verbal abuse, stalking, or children witnessing violence between adults can fall under Washington’s domestic violence laws.
As Zoey says, “Don’t assume there is no option available to you. Often, there is a form of protection that applies to your situation, even if it doesn’t fit the stereotype of ‘domestic violence.’”
You don’t need to be married or physically harmed to qualify for protection. If someone makes you feel unsafe, even through threats, control, or harassment, the court may recognize it as domestic violence.
Some people aren’t ready to file immediately — and that’s okay. Taking small, quiet steps to protect yourself can make a big difference when the time comes.
Start by keeping screenshots of threatening messages or logs of intimidating behavior, but store them somewhere safe, such as a password-protected cloud folder or a flash drive kept with a trusted friend. If there are physical incidents, note the date, time, location, and any witnesses. Even if you never report it to the police, your private record becomes powerful evidence later.
As Zoey explains, “Creating a paper trail is crucial. When you’re ready, you’ll already have the information needed to apply for a protection order, either on your own or through an attorney.”
Even if you’re not ready to act, start documenting now. Quiet preparation gives you control and protection when you decide to move forward.
If you’re in Bellevue and need help, you don’t have to go through this alone. Whether you’re ready to take legal action or just need someone to talk to, there are trusted local and national resources available right now.
Bellevue Police Department DV Unit – Call 425-452-6917
King County Courthouse (Bellevue Courthouse) – Assistance with filing protection orders
LifeWire (Bellevue-based nonprofit) – 24/7 helpline: 425-746-1940, offering shelter, advocacy, and counseling
National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Even one phone call can change your path forward, whether it leads to safety planning, legal protection, or simply someone listening without judgment.
Zoey emphasizes that “the situation will not improve on its own. If you’re already asking yourself whether you need a protection order, that’s a strong sign that the situation is serious and dangerous. It’s far better to reach out now than to wait.”
Even if law enforcement or courts feel overwhelming, beginning the process creates a record and opens the door to resources. For those unable to afford a lawyer, Bellevue nonprofits and legal aid services can provide critical support.
Zoey Salsbury is an Associate Attorney at Modern Family Law in Bellevue, Washington. She focuses her practice on family law and protection orders, advocating for clients navigating situations of domestic violence, harassment, and abuse. Known for her steady advocacy and clear guidance, Zoey helps clients feel empowered as they seek safety and legal protection.
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