Domestic Violence Protective Orders in Washington State

You've Already Done the Hardest Part

If you're reading this, you're asking questions. That takes courage — more than most people will ever understand.

Reaching out for legal protection is one of the most frightening steps a survivor can take. Maybe you've been told that what's happening to you “isn't that bad.” Maybe you're worried the court won't believe you, or that a piece of paper won't stop someone who has already hurt you. Maybe you're scared about what happens after you file — where you'll sleep, whether it will make things worse, whether anyone in the system will actually be on your side. Those fears are real, and they are valid.

But here is what we want you to know: a domestic violence protection order is not just paperwork. It is a legally enforceable court order with real consequences for the person who violates it. Law enforcement can arrest someone for violating it — without needing a warrant. It can keep someone away from your home, your workplace, your children, even your pets. It is one of the most powerful legal tools available to you, and in Washington state, it is completely free to get.

This guide walks you through everything — the four types of protective orders in Washington, who qualifies, exactly how to file step by step, what to do while you wait, and where to get free legal help. No legalese. No judgment. Just clear, honest information so you can make the decision that is right for you.

Types of Protective Orders in Washington State

Washington state has four types of protective orders. They each work differently, come from different courts, and apply in different situations. Understanding which one fits your situation is the first step.

1. Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO)

A DVPO is a civil court order under RCW 26.50. You file for it yourself at your county Superior Court — no criminal charges need to be filed, no police report is required. A DVPO covers intimate partners, former partners, family members, household members, and people in dating relationships.

What it can do:

Order the abuser to stay away from you, your home, your workplace, your school, and your children's school or daycare
Remove the abuser from a shared home
Award you temporary custody of your children
Prohibit the abuser from contacting you in any way (phone, text, email, social media, through a third party)
Include your pets
Require the abuser to surrender firearms

How long it lasts: A temporary order lasts up to 14 days. A final order after a full hearing can last up to 2 years — or permanently, if the circumstances justify it.

What happens if it's violated: Violation is a criminal offense in Washington state. The abuser can be arrested on the spot.

2. No-Contact Order (NCO)

A No-Contact Order is a criminal court order — it is issued by a judge in connection with a criminal domestic violence case. If law enforcement responds to a DV incident and makes an arrest, a judge will often issue an NCO automatically as a condition of release or sentencing.

Key difference from a DVPO: You do not apply for an NCO. The state files criminal charges; the NCO comes from those proceedings. As the victim, you can request one, but the prosecutor's office manages it — not you.

How long it lasts: Varies — can be tied to the length of the criminal case, probation, or set for a specific term.

What happens if it's violated: Because this is a criminal order, violation results in additional criminal charges. It is taken very seriously by courts.

3. Anti-Harassment Order

An Anti-Harassment Order (AHO) is a civil court order designed for situations that involve harassment but may not meet the legal definition of domestic violence — for example, a neighbor, a coworker, or an acquaintance who is harassing or stalking you.

When it might apply in a DV context: If your abuser is someone who does not meet the relationship requirements for a DVPO, an AHO may still provide legal protection.

How long it lasts: Up to 2 years; renewable.

What happens if it's violated: Criminal offense — same as a DVPO violation.

4. Restraining Order

A Restraining Order in Washington is typically a civil order issued as part of a family law case — such as a divorce, legal separation, or custody proceeding. If you are already involved in a family court case, a judge can include a restraining order protecting you as part of those proceedings.

Key difference: A restraining order is tied to an existing court case. It is not a standalone filing the way a DVPO is.

How long it lasts: Tied to the family law case or set for a specific period by the judge.

What happens if it's violated: Contempt of court and/or criminal charges, depending on the circumstances.

Who Qualifies for a DVPO in Washington State?

One of the most important things to know: you do not need to have been physically hit to qualify for a DVPO.

Under RCW 26.50.010, domestic violence is broadly defined. It includes:

Physical assault of any kind
Sexual assault or rape
Stalking — following you, monitoring your location, watching your home
Harassment — repeated unwanted contact, threats, intimidation
Emotional or psychological abuse — controlling behavior, isolation, verbal threats
Financial abuse — controlling your access to money, destroying your credit, preventing you from working
Coercive control — a pattern of behavior designed to make you feel trapped or afraid

Relationship Requirements

Under RCW 26.50.010, you may file for a DVPO if the person harming you is:

A current or former spouse or domestic partner
A current or former dating partner (this includes same-sex relationships)
A parent, child, sibling, or other family member (by blood, marriage, or legal adoption)
Someone you currently live with or have lived with in the past (roommates, cohabitants)
The parent of your child, regardless of whether you ever lived together or had a romantic relationship

Who Else Can File?

Anyone regardless of gender or sexual orientation. DVPO protection applies equally to all survivors.
People of any immigration status. Filing for a DVPO does NOT require you to disclose your immigration status to the court. You will not be asked for a Social Security number or proof of citizenship. Protections exist under federal law (VAWA) for survivors regardless of immigration status.
Minors. A person under 18 can be a petitioner with the assistance of a parent, guardian, or — if no safe adult is available — the court can appoint a guardian ad litem.

Your Pets Are Protected Too

This matters, and it is often overlooked. Research consistently shows that abusers threaten or harm pets as a way to control survivors and prevent them from leaving.

Under RCW 26.50.060(2)(e), a DVPO can include your pets, livestock, and service animals. The order can require the abuser to stay away from your animals and can award you temporary care and custody of them. If your pet is part of why you've been afraid to leave — please know that the court can protect them too.

How to Get a DVPO in Washington State: Step by Step

You do not need a lawyer to file for a DVPO. It is free. Many survivors navigate this process on their own, and you can too — though having an advocate or attorney by your side makes things easier and can strengthen your petition. Here is exactly what happens:

Step 1 — Go to your county Superior Court clerk's office

Every county in Washington has a Superior Court. The clerk's office has the forms you need, and most courthouses have a self-help center or facilitator who can help you fill them out. You can also file online through the Washington Courts ePORTAL at courts.wa.gov — this allows you to submit your petition from anywhere with internet access, which matters if getting to a courthouse is not safe or possible.

Step 2 — Fill out the petition

The petition asks you to describe the abuse or threat in your own words. Be as specific as you can — include dates, locations, what was said or done, any injuries, any witnesses. You don't need to remember every detail perfectly. Write what you know. If you are afraid of what might happen if you don't get the order, explain that too. You do not need a police report. You do not need photos. Your testimony — your words — is evidence.

Step 3 — A judge reviews your petition the same day

This is called an ex parte hearing — meaning the abuser is not present and does not know you have filed yet. The judge reads your petition and decides whether to grant a temporary order. This typically happens the same day you file, sometimes within hours.

Step 4 — If granted, a Temporary Protection Order (TPO) is issued

A TPO is immediately effective. Law enforcement will serve a copy of the order to the abuser — you do not have to do this yourself. The TPO is good for up to 14 days and is entered into the Washington State Protection Order Registry and the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database, which means law enforcement anywhere in the country can see it.

Step 5 — A full hearing is scheduled within 14 days

This is your opportunity to present your case in full, with the abuser present. You will be notified of the hearing date when your TPO is issued. If you need help preparing, reach out to a legal advocate or the CLEAR line right away — 14 days goes fast.

Step 6 — At the full hearing, both parties can present evidence

The judge hears from both sides. You can bring witnesses, photos, text messages, voicemails, medical records, or any other documentation. An advocate or attorney can speak for you or with you. The judge then decides whether to issue a final DVPO.

Step 7 — A final DVPO can last up to 2 years — or longer

If the judge grants the final order, it can last up to 2 years. If there is a significant safety risk, the court can extend it further or make it permanent. You can also request a renewal before the order expires.

Step 8 — The order is registered in state and national databases

Your final DVPO is entered into the WA Protection Order Registry and the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). This means police anywhere in Washington — and across the country — can access it immediately if you call 911.

There is no filing fee for a DVPO in Washington state under RCW 26.50. If anyone asks you to pay to file, speak to the court clerk or a legal advocate.

Safety Planning While You Wait for the Hearing

The 14-day window between your TPO and your full hearing can be one of the most dangerous periods. The abuser has now been served notice. They know you took legal action. This is when some abusers escalate — out of anger, fear of consequences, or a desperate attempt to regain control.

Please take this window seriously. Here are key steps:

Tell people you trust. Let a friend, family member, coworker, or neighbor know what is happening. Share a photo of the abuser with people who can help watch out for you. Give your employer or your child's school a copy of the TPO so they know to call 911 if the abuser shows up.
Don't go home alone — if it's not safe. If you are still living with or near the abuser, now is the time to activate your exit plan. DV advocates can help you find emergency shelter. The WA State DV Hotline (1-800-562-6025) can connect you with local shelter and safety planning support right now.
Document everything. Keep a log with dates, times, and descriptions of any contact, threats, or harassment — even if it seems minor. Take screenshots of texts and voicemails. These may be critical at your hearing.
Carry your TPO with you. Keep a copy on your phone and a physical copy in your bag. If the abuser contacts you in violation of the TPO, call 911 and show them the order.
Reach out to Bossplayah Haven. Our team can talk through a safety plan with you and connect you with resources. Reach us through our contact page. You don't have to figure this out alone.

If the Order Is Violated: What Happens

A protection order is only as strong as its enforcement. Here is what you need to know.

Violation of a DVPO is a criminal offense in Washington state under RCW 26.50.110. Depending on the circumstances:

A first violation is typically a gross misdemeanor — up to 364 days in jail and up to $5,000 in fines
Subsequent violations, violations involving assault or stalking, or violations by someone with a prior DV conviction can be charged as felonies

Washington has a mandatory arrest policy for DV order violations. If a law enforcement officer has probable cause to believe a protection order has been violated, they must arrest the person — they do not have discretion to let it go.

What to do if the order is violated:

Call 911 immediately. This is the most important step. Tell them you have a protection order and that it has been violated. Give them the name of the abuser and describe what happened.
Show them the order. Having a copy with you helps law enforcement respond quickly and correctly.
Document everything. After the immediate danger has passed, write down exactly what happened — date, time, what was said or done, any witnesses. Save any texts, voicemails, emails, or social media messages.
Contact your attorney or a legal advocate. A violation can be used to strengthen your case for a longer or permanent order.
Do not feel guilty for calling. You are not overreacting. You are protecting yourself. That is exactly what the order is designed for.

Free Legal Help in Washington State

You do not have to navigate this alone, and you do not have to pay for legal help. Washington state has robust free resources for DV survivors.

Northwest Justice Project / CLEAR
Free civil legal aid statewide. Call 1-888-201-1014 (Monday–Friday, 9:15 AM–12:15 PM). If you call outside those hours, leave a message and they will call back. CLEAR provides free legal advice and can connect you with free representation.

CLEAR*Online
Apply for free legal help online at nwjustice.org/get-legal-help — available 24/7. Especially useful if you can't call during business hours or need to access help discreetly.

WA State DV Hotline Advocates
Advocates at 1-800-562-6025 can help you understand the forms and the process. They are not lawyers, but they know the system and they are on your side.

Courthouse Facilitators / Self-Help Centers
Most Washington Superior Courts have a family law facilitator or self-help center — a free resource where court staff can help you complete your petition correctly. Call your county courthouse and ask. They are there specifically for people filing without a lawyer.

Washington LawHelp
Visit washingtonlawhelp.org for free legal guides, step-by-step instructions, and downloadable forms for DVPOs, NCOs, and more. Available in multiple languages.

YWCA and Local DV Organizations
Many local DV organizations — including YWCA chapters across Washington — have legal advocates who can accompany you to court, help you prepare, and sit with you during the hearing. You don't have to walk into that courtroom alone. Search 211 or call the WA DV Hotline to find your local YWCA or DV program.

Washington Courts ePORTAL
File your DVPO petition online at courts.wa.gov — no need to physically go to the courthouse. Especially helpful if transportation is a barrier or if going to the courthouse feels unsafe.

Quick Reference: Domestic Violence Protection Order Resources in Washington State

Resource	Service	Phone / URL	Free?
WA State DV Hotline	Crisis support, shelter referrals, safety planning, form help	1-800-562-6025	Yes
National DV Hotline	24/7 crisis support, safety planning	1-800-799-7233 (TTY: 1-800-787-3224)	Yes
Crisis Text Line	24/7 text-based crisis support	Text HOME to 741741	Yes
WA 211	Local resource referrals — shelter, legal, services	Dial 2-1-1 or text zip to 898-211	Yes
CLEAR (NW Justice Project)	Free civil legal aid statewide	1-888-201-1014	Yes
CLEAR*Online	Online application for free legal help	nwjustice.org/get-legal-help	Yes
Washington LawHelp	Free legal guides, DVPO forms, instructions	washingtonlawhelp.org	Yes
Washington Courts ePORTAL	Online DVPO filing statewide	courts.wa.gov	Yes (no filing fee)
Courthouse Facilitator / Self-Help Center	In-person help filling out forms	Check your county Superior Court	Yes
YWCA Washington	Legal advocates, court accompaniment, shelter	Search local at 211	Yes
Local DV Shelters	Emergency and transitional shelter	Search 211 for local options	Yes
Safe Place (DSHS)	Community safe locations statewide	app.dshs.wa.gov/safeplace	Yes
Survivor Alliance WA	Peer support, survivor-led advocacy	survivoralliance.org	Yes
Northwest Immigrant Rights Project	Immigration + DV intersection, VAWA petitions	nwirp.org / 206-587-4009	Yes
King County DV Unit	DV legal services, safety planning (King Co.)	kingcounty.gov/dv	Yes
Pierce County Advocacy	DV advocacy and legal support (Pierce Co.)	pcavs.org	Yes
Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County	DV shelter and advocacy (Snohomish Co.)	dvs-snoco.org	Yes
WA State Bar Assoc. Lawyer Referral Service	Referral to DV-experienced attorneys	wsba.org / 1-800-945-9722	Referral free; attorney fees vary
Legal Voice	Policy and litigation for gender justice in WA	legalvoice.org	Varies
WA State Coalition Against DV (WSCADV)	Statewide DV coalition, resource hub	wscadv.org	Yes

You Don't Have to Navigate This Alone

At Bossplayah Haven, we believe that every person who has survived abuse deserves not just a protective order — but a full path forward. Safety, stability, healing, hope.

We are not a law firm, and we can't file your petition for you. But we are people who care deeply and can listen, help you think through your safety plan, and connect you with the specific resources that fit your situation — whether that's legal help, shelter, counseling, or just someone to talk to who won't judge you.

We serve ALL survivors — regardless of gender, immigration status, or how your situation looks to others. You don't have to have bruises. You don't have to have called the police before. You don't have to have left yet. Wherever you are in this process, you are welcome here.

Reach us through our contact form — tell us as much or as little as you want. We will respond with care and without judgment.
Download the free 5-Step Stability Starter Guide on our website — a simple, plain-language guide to taking your first steps toward safety and stability, no matter where you're starting from.

You deserve protection. You deserve support. You deserve a life where you feel safe.

Domestic Violence Protective Orders in Washington State: A Complete Guide