People in Washington commit the offense of first-degree kidnapping if they intentionally abduct a person with the intent to perform another specific act (like hold the person for ransom or inflict injury on the person). The crime is a serious felony under the law and a conviction can result in years in state prison. If [...]
An arraignment is generally a person’s first criminal court appearance following an arrest or an investigation into an alleged Washington crime. The event is an extremely important court appearance for many reasons, and defendants have several rights that deserve protection. If you or a loved one is facing an arraignment for a Washington criminal offense, [...]
Like the crime of murder (either first degree or second degree), manslaughter involves the taking of a person’s life. Unlike murder, though, the offense does not involve premeditation or the intentional killing of a victim. Manslaughter in the first degree, rather, involves a person “recklessly” causing the death of another. The crime is a serious [...]
The unlawful use of a building for drug purposes is a serious drug crime under Washington’s criminal laws. A conviction of the offense is a felony punishable by up to five years in state prison. If you or a loved one is facing a drug charge in Washington, it is critical to contact a criminal [...]
Homicide by abuse is the crime where someone causes the death of a particular vulnerable person, like a child, dependent adult, or developmentally disabled individual. The offense is a serious felony under Washington law. If you or a loved one is facing a homicide by abuse charge, it is critical that you contact an experienced [...]
People generally commit the crime of arson if they knowingly set something on fire or cause an explosion. The offense is a serious felony under Washington law. If you or a family member is facing an arson charge, it is critical that you contact an experienced criminal defense attorney for help. What is the Crime [...]
Criminal trespass under Washington law is an offense where a person enters or remains in a building or other premises without permission or authority. The crime can lead to severe penalties including fines and a jail term of up to one year. If you or a loved one is facing a trespass charge, contact an [...]
When a person is accused of committing a Washington domestic violence crime, the accuser or the alleged victim often files a petition for a domestic violence protection order (DVPO). If granted, the order prohibits the accused from having any contact with the alleged victim. If you are facing both a domestic violence charge and a [...]
People can commit the offenses of tax fraud and tax evasion in a variety of different ways. In general, though, people commit these crimes when they purposely avoid or underpay their taxes and thereby avoid their tax responsibilities. Both offenses are considered serious white-collar crimes in Washington. If you or a loved one are facing [...]
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee recently signed a measure that significantly changes the state’s approach to drug possession. The Gov. signed the law after the Washington Supreme Court struck down Washington's previous possession law as unconstitutional. If you have been charged with a drug crime, it is critical to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney [...]
