Domestic violence is a serious offense. Every state has applicable laws which defines domestic violence broadly. It does not only include physical violence or a threat to harm but can also include coercive control within a relationship.
Domestic violence is not only about physical injury but can be about power and control. It can take the form of emotional manipulation, financial deprivation, intimidation, isolation, or threats.
It is easy to assume that domestic violence spikes during the holidays and unfortunately, statistics show that this is true. Stress from family gatherings, financial strain, and alcohol consumption can create volatile environments during the holidays.
Although there’s no single study proving a direct link between holidays and an increase in domestic violence, Washington advocacy agencies consistently report higher call volumes around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. According to data from the Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence and local crisis lines, requests for emergency shelter and legal protection often rise during these times.
Several overlapping factors contribute to the risk of violence or coercive control during Washington’s holiday season: 1) More Time Together: School breaks and work holidays mean victims spend more time in close proximity to their abusers; 2) Financial Stress: Between gift-giving, travel, and year-end expenses, financial strain can trigger controlling or violent behavior in abusers who already struggle with power dynamics; 3) Travel and Family Tension: Whether driving to visit relatives or being around family can cause an abuser to become volatile; 4) Substance Use: Washington’s access to alcohol and cannabis adds risk in volatile households; intoxication can lower inhibitions and lead to escalated abuse or victimization; and/or 5) Many abusers deliberately isolate victims by preventing them from attending family gatherings or social events, cutting off emotional support when it’s needed most.
No holiday season should end with a 911 call but for too many people, stress, substance use, and unresolved conflict can lead to dangerous escalation.If you or a loved one is in a bind as a result of criminal allegations (in Seattle or elsewhere), immediately contact a Seattle Criminal Attorney. A Seattle Criminal Defense Attorney is not going to judge you and understands that everyone makes mistakes. Hiring a Seattle Criminal Lawyer to help can – at a minimum – reduce penalties and can help direct people on how to best deal with their criminal charge, and many times even get them dismissed. So, it should go without saying that someone cited for a misdemeanor or felony should hire a qualified Seattle Criminal Lawyer as soon as possible. Criminal charges can cause havoc on a person’s personal and professional life. Anyone charged with a crime in Washington State should immediately seek the assistance of a seasoned Seattle Criminal Lawyer. SQ Attorneys can be reached at (425) 359-3791 and/or (206) 441-0900.
