7.90.110 - Ex parte temporary sexual assault protection orders -- Issuance. - Washington Statutes

Ex parte temporary sexual assault protection orders — Issuance.

(1) An ex parte temporary sexual assault protection order shall issue if the petitioner satisfies the requirements of this subsection by a preponderance of the evidence. The petitioner shall establish that:

     (a) The petitioner has been a victim of nonconsensual sexual conduct or nonconsensual sexual penetration by the respondent; and

     (b) There is good cause to grant the remedy, regardless of the lack of prior service of process or of notice upon the respondent, because the harm which that remedy is intended to prevent would be likely to occur if the respondent were given any prior notice, or greater notice than was actually given, of the petitioner's efforts to obtain judicial relief.

     (2) If the respondent appears in court for this hearing for an ex parte temporary order, he or she may elect to file a general appearance and testify. Any resulting order may be an ex parte temporary order, governed by this section.

     (3) If the court declines to issue an ex parte temporary sexual assault protection order, the court shall state the particular reasons for the court's denial. The court's denial of a motion for an ex parte temporary order shall be filed with the court.

     (4) A knowing violation of a court order issued under this section is punishable under RCW 26.50.110.

[2007 c 212 § 3; 2006 c 138 § 12.]