Opinion ID: 2599802
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 9

Heading: Duress Defense [1]

Text: ¶ 24 Dornay argues her misconduct should be excused because she was under duress at the time she testified. However, neither the hearing officer nor the Board agreed that Dornay established a duress defense. Washington's duress statute requires the person to have, inter alia, an apprehension . . . that in case of refusal he or she or another would be liable to immediate death or immediate grievous bodily injury. . . . RCW 9A.16.060(1)(a). We agree with the hearing officer that Dornay presented insufficient evidence to support duress. At the time she testified in Hick's dissolution hearing, we can find no facts or other testimony that supports Dornay's assertion that she was in imminent apprehension of immediate death or bodily injury. No one threatened Dornay or forced her to testify falsely. While the questions asked may have surprised her, she alone chose the answers. Conversely, evidence was presented which negates a duress defense. For example, the day after Dornay testified, she sent Hick a dozen roses and romantic cards acknowledging her feelings of respect and love for Hick and referenced other aspects of the ongoing nature of their relationship. We agree with the decision of both the hearing officer and the Board that the duress defense was not established.