How to Get a Domestic Violence Charge Expunged in Washington: Clear Your Record, Reclaim Your Life
If you have a domestic violence conviction on your record in Washington State, you're not alone. Thousands of people every year face this same situation, and many are ready to make a change. Maybe the incident was years ago. Maybe you've completed all the court-ordered requirements. And maybe you just want the chance to move forward, without a criminal record getting in the way of your job, housing, or your kids.
We understand. And we want you to know: there is a legal path forward.
Washington law allows certain domestic violence misdemeanors to be expunged or vacated. Once removed, your charge will no longer show up in public criminal background checks. That means new opportunities for employment, housing, education, and peace of mind.
What Is Expungement, and Who Qualifies?
Expungement, or more accurately, "vacating" a conviction in Washington, means the court sets aside your guilty plea or verdict and dismisses the charge. This is only available for certain misdemeanors, including some domestic violence offenses, under specific conditions:
You completed all terms of your sentence (jail time, probation, counseling).
You have not been convicted of a new crime for a required waiting period.
You have no pending criminal charges.
You haven’t already had too many prior convictions.
You meet any other requirements under RCW 9.96.060.
Most domestic violence-related misdemeanors, like Assault 4 DV or Interfering with the Reporting of a Domestic Violence Crime, can potentially be vacated. Some felonies and serious offenses may not qualify, but each case is different. Speaking with an experienced expungement lawyer is essential to find out where you stand.
What Happens If the Victim Dropped the Charges or Didn’t Show Up?
In Washington State, even if a domestic violence victim recants or doesn’t appear in court, the prosecutor can still pursue the case. This is because domestic violence is considered a crime against the state, not just against the individual.
If you were convicted, even under difficult or unfair circumstances, you may still have a path to expungement once you meet eligibility requirements. Prosecutors are trained to move forward with charges even when the victim refuses to participate. But a conviction doesn't have to be forever.
Why You Should Expunge Your Domestic Violence Record
Even one domestic violence conviction can hold you back for years. Expungement is your chance to:
Pass employer background checks
Apply for housing without fear
Restore custody rights or visitation
Volunteer at your child’s school or sports team
Reclaim your reputation and peace of mind
You deserve the chance to move forward. And the sooner you start the process, the sooner you can get your freedom back.
How Long Does the Process Take?
It depends on your situation, but here’s what most people can expect:
Step 1: Legal Consultation & Record Review (1-2 weeks)
Step 2: Filing a Motion with the Court (2-3 weeks)
Step 3: Hearing Date Set & Prosecutor Response (30-90 days)
Step 4: Judge Makes a Decision (At hearing or shortly after)
Once granted, your record is updated with the Washington State Patrol, courts, and other official databases. You can legally say you were never convicted.
What If Your Case Involved Drugs, Alcohol, or Counseling?
Many domestic violence charges involve additional court-ordered treatments. Judges look favorably on individuals who voluntarily seek counseling or complete programs ahead of time. These might include:
Anger management or DV batterer's treatment
Alcohol or drug education or treatment
Parenting classes
Independent counseling
Taking these steps proactively, even before applying for expungement, can improve your chances.
What About Felony Domestic Violence Charges?
Many felony domestic violence charges in Washington State are eligible for expungement unless they are violent offenses. In cases where expungement is not possible, you may qualify for a sentence alternative or restoration of rights through other legal avenues, such as:
Certificate of Rehabilitation
Clemency/Pardon petition
Firearm rights restoration (separate legal process)
If you're unsure whether your felony can be vacated, speak with a lawyer who specializes in Washington State expungement law.
Common Legal Defenses for Domestic Violence Charges (If Your Case Is Still Open)
If you haven’t been convicted yet, now is the time to defend your record. An experienced defense lawyer can help by:
Arguing self-defense
Showing false accusations or ulterior motives
Pointing out a lack of evidence or conflicting testimony
Identifying rights violations during your arrest
Don't wait until it's too late. Whether you're pre-trial or post-conviction, your next step matters.
Ready to Clear Your Record? Let Us Help
At Findley & Rogers, we fight for people who want to leave the past behind. Our flat-rate expungement services are confidential, affordable, and effective. We’ll review your record, explain your options, and take care of everything, from paperwork to court appearances. Let us help you clear your domestic violence charge and reclaim your freedom.
Schedule your free consultation today. Your future is too important to wait.
Don’t let one mistake define your life. Find out today if you can clear your domestic violence record in Washington State. Contact Findley & Rogers now.
