Domestic Violence In Seattle: Legal Protections, Parenting Plans & Resources

Domestic violence is a difficult and deeply personal issue, but survivors in Seattle and across Washington have strong legal protections and supportive community resources available to help them find safety. Inesa Paulikas, an associate attorney with Modern Family Law in Seattle, shares valuable insights on the legal process, parenting plan considerations, and resources for survivors.

Legal Protections Available In Seattle

Survivors of domestic violence in Washington can pursue two main legal remedies: domestic violence protection orders and restraining orders.

“A domestic violence protection order is a completely separate proceeding from a divorce or parenting plan,” explains Paulikas. “Restraining orders, on the other hand, can be included within a divorce or parenting plan case.”

Washington has some of the strongest domestic violence laws in the country, with a broad definition of abuse. It includes not only physical and emotional harm but also coercive control, a pattern of behavior that intimidates or restricts a person’s freedom. Examples include financial control, reckless driving with children in the car, threats to involve immigration authorities, or even attempted suicide.

Filing for a protection order is accessible:

• Many counties allow petitions to be drafted and filed entirely online.

• Hearings are typically held remotely via Zoom, which reduces barriers such as childcare and time off work.

• The burden of proof is relatively low, requiring only a “preponderance of the evidence,” what Paulikas describes as “50% plus a feather.”

For these reasons, Paulikas often recommends domestic violence protection orders over restraining orders, though both may apply depending on the situation.

How Domestic Violence Impacts Parenting Plans

Domestic violence can also directly affect parenting plans in Seattle and King County family courts.

“Parenting time can be restricted if it is shown that one or both parents have engaged in harmful conduct, such as domestic violence,” says Paulikas.

Recent changes to Washington law, effective July 1, 2025 give courts more detailed guidance when considering restrictions on parenting time. Judges must now provide written findings if they deny a request for restrictions, addressing issues such as:

• Whether the parent poses a current risk to the child or the other parent.

• Whether the parent has acknowledged past harm and committed to avoiding future harm.

• Whether the parent has complied with court orders or completed treatment programs, such as domestic violence intervention.

These updates give survivors greater transparency and help ensure children’s safety remains the top priority.

Separate Property vs. Community Property

Seattle and the surrounding region offer numerous community-based resources for survivors of domestic violence. Some of the most impactful include:

• King County Domestic Violence Legal Advocacy Project – May provide an attorney at the county’s expense in protection order cases, though availability is limited.

• New Beginnings – Offers shelter, advocacy, and support services for survivors in Seattle.

• Eastside Legal Assistance Program – Provides legal aid services to low-income individuals.

• DAWN (Domestic Abuse Women’s Network) – A South King County organization offering shelter and advocacy.

• Northwest Justice Project & Washington Law Help – Provide free legal services and plain-language guides for survivors navigating the legal system on their own.

“Even more importantly, Washington Law Help explains complex legal concepts in plain language and offers step-by-step guides for filing protection orders, family law motions, and more,” notes Paulikas.

For those in Snohomish County, the Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County provides similar assistance.

Taking The First Step

While the legal system may feel overwhelming, seeking protection is a powerful and life-changing decision.

“There is nothing more rewarding than helping someone gain peace, protection, and safety through legal avenues,” says Paulikas. “Making that first call is often the hardest step, but it can also be incredibly liberating.”

Modern Family Law is dedicated to guiding survivors through these difficult situations with compassion and expertise. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence in Seattle, remember: you are not alone, and help is available.