‘Make it make sense’: Advocates stunned as WA lawmaker helps slash funds for groups clearing old drug convictions
After being fired from the legal aid group she once led, Rep. Tarra Simmons supported state cuts that crippled similar organizations
Domestic Violence
Many Washington counties aren’t verifying if accused domestic abusers are turning over their guns
While some counties are devoting money to track down guns, others rely on the honor system to ensure firearms are turned over
Sheriff candidate in small WA county faces claims of domestic violence, dishonesty
State Legislature failed to pass bill last session that would have disqualified him from running
Family law experts push legal framework to guide guardian ad litem reform in Washington
A ‘model code’ would have only licensed mental health professionals making parenting plan recommendations to the court
Why many judges in WA won’t order abusers to turn in guns
State and federal court decisions threaten to override Washington’s firearm surrender law
In Eastern Washington, victims seeking protection steer clear of a judge accused of domestic violence himself
Attorneys say there’s little accountability for judges who may show bias against victims
Low-income domestic violence survivors face uphill battle in obtaining court-ordered protections
Advocates urge more funding for housing, shelters and legal services as well as consistent policy implementation