Being accused of assault doesn’t always mean you acted with criminal intent.

In many cases, people find themselves fighting for their safety or defending others — only to face serious assault charges afterward. Washington law recognizes that not every act of physical force is unlawful. If you acted in self-defense, you have the right to present that defense in court.

At Partovi Law. P.S., we help individuals across Spokane navigate the confusion and fear that often follow an assault arrest. Our goal is to ensure your side of the story is heard — and that your actions are viewed in the proper legal context.

Understanding Self-Defense Under Washington Law

In Washington, self-defense is defined as using reasonable force to protect yourself or another person from imminent harm. The key word is “reasonable.” The court evaluates whether your reaction matched the perceived threat — not whether harm actually occurred.

You may claim self-defense if:

• You reasonably believed you or someone else was in danger.
• The force you used was proportionate to the threat.
• You were not the initial aggressor in the confrontation.

If your response was necessary to prevent injury or protect another person, your actions may be justified — even if someone was hurt in the process.

How Self-Defense Can Influence Your Case

Invoking self-defense can completely change the direction of your case. Instead of focusing on punishment, the discussion shifts to why you acted the way you did.

The prosecution must then prove beyond a reasonable doubt that your actions were not defensive — a burden that can be difficult to meet when your attorney builds a compelling, evidence-based defense.

At Partovi Law, P.S., we carefully investigate the facts to support your self-defense claim. Our work includes:

• Reviewing witness statements and police reports for inconsistencies.
• Examining surveillance footage or body camera evidence.
• Consulting with medical professionals or investigators to verify the sequence of events.
• Demonstrating that your actions were a lawful response to danger, not aggression.

Common Scenarios Where Self-Defense May Apply

Self-defense is more common than many realize. Some typical examples include:

• Bar or street altercations: When someone threatens or initiates physical violence.
• Domestic situations: When one person acts to protect themselves or their child from harm.
• Property defense: When someone unlawfully enters your home or vehicle and you act to protect yourself.
• Defending others: When you intervene to prevent another person from being attacked.

In all these situations, context matters — and that’s where a strong defense attorney can make a real difference.

When Self-Defense Becomes Complicated

Not all self-defense claims are straightforward. Sometimes, the line between protection and aggression can blur, especially when there are conflicting accounts or limited evidence.

Even if you felt you were defending yourself, prosecutors may still argue that your actions went too far.

This is why having an attorney like David R. Partovi is so important. He carefully examines every detail to build a defense rooted in both the facts and the law, ensuring that your intentions are fully represented before the court.

Why Choose Partovi Law, P.S. for Your Assault Defense

Assault charges can carry life-altering consequences, from jail time and fines to a permanent criminal record. At Partovi Law, P.S., we are committed to helping clients protect their rights, their freedom, and their reputation.

Our Spokane legal team provides personalized attention to every case, working closely with clients to understand what happened and develop a clear, strategic defense plan. We believe in listening first, acting quickly, and fighting tirelessly for a fair outcome.