Legal Question in Family Law in Washington

Yes, you absolutely need to, otherwise, you limit yourself in your representation. Please do not take offense, but the fact that you have to ask this question already tells me that you are out of your depth. That's o.k., since it is better to find out now, here today, rather than at the hearing, when it is too late. You can and should do something about it now.

Due to the potentially severe sanctions entry of a protection order can have after a hearing on the issue, you are strongly encouraged to hire a local attorney to represent you in preparing your response and in arguing your case for you. This is not like a normal restraining order, so do not think you can handle it on your own, unless you have absolutely no choice and have no funds with which to hire an attorney. Actually, even if you cannot afford to hire an attorney, you should look into low cost or no cost attorneys to see if they will take on your case. If you cannot find one by the date of the hearing set in the paperwork, write the attorney representing the other side and ask for an agreed continuance to give you time to obtain an attorney.

If they refuse, make sure you appear at the hearing to ask the judge, and have a copy of the e-mail where you asked the other attorney, in case the judge or court commissioner wants to see it. You are almost certain (but not guaranteed) to get at least one continuance. Again, there is potentially a lot at stake, so do your best.

Best of luck!