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A juvenile criminal record can follow someone long after a case is over. In Washington, juvenile court records generally remain open to public inspection unless they are sealed. Fortunately, state law provides a process for sealing many juvenile records, potentially limiting the impact of a past case on employment, housing, education, and other opportunities. When [...]
If you have been arrested or charged with a crime in Seattle, your first court appearance can feel intimidating. You may be unsure what the judge will ask, whether you could remain in custody, or what you should say about the allegations against you. Understanding the process can help you prepare and avoid mistakes that [...]
A defendant enters a “sentencing” phase to his criminal case if he is found guilty during a trial or pleads guilty to a crime. The phase determines how a convicted party will be punished or penalized for the crime that he was found guilty of committing. Penalties range broadly and they may include: Fines, Jail [...]
Crimes can take the shape of state crimes or federal crimes. If an offense is a state crime, then it’s charged in state court at the state level. If an offense is a federal crime, then it’s charged in federal court at the federal level. Examples of federal crimes include: Certain drug offenses, Fraud, and Conspiracy. [...]
A theft conviction in Washington can have serious and lasting consequences. Depending on the value of the property involved and the circumstances of the alleged offense, you could face jail time, significant fines, restitution, and a permanent criminal record. Fortunately, being charged with theft does not mean you will automatically be convicted. A knowledgeable Seattle [...]
A juvenile arrest can be a frightening experience for both the minor and their family. Many parents are unsure what to expect after their child is taken into custody, while minors may not fully understand their rights or the potential consequences they face. Although Washington's juvenile justice system is designed differently from the adult [...]
A routine traffic stop can quickly become a serious criminal matter if law enforcement officers discover drugs in a vehicle. Whether the drugs belong to the driver, a passenger, or someone else entirely, the consequences can be severe. Understanding your rights and the legal issues involved is critical if you are facing drug-related charges after [...]
Stalking allegations are serious under both Washington and federal law. While many people are familiar with state stalking offenses, fewer understand that stalking can also be prosecuted in federal court. A federal stalking conviction can lead to significant prison time, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are being investigated or have [...]
If you have been charged with assault or another violent crime in Washington, you may be wondering whether you can argue that you acted in self-defense. In many situations, Washington law allows individuals to use reasonable force to protect themselves or others from harm. When supported by the facts, self-defense can be a powerful defense [...]
Being accused of theft can be overwhelming and stressful. In many cases, people immediately wonder whether returning an item or paying it back can make the situation disappear. A person accused of shoplifting, taking property from a workplace, or being involved in another theft-related offense may think that giving the property back automatically erases [...]
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