Fish & Wildlife Violations

Everett is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor lovers, offering some of the best opportunities to enjoy hunting and fishing in Washington state. From the Snohomish River, which is famous for its abundant salmon and steelhead fishing, to Jetty Island, where all anglers can catch a variety of fish, there's no shortage of prime fishing locations. For hunting, Everett's surrounding areas, like the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, are full of deer, elk, and waterfowl, making them ideal for hunters looking for a diverse outdoor experience.

Losing access to these outdoor activities would be devastating, and that's exactly what you might face if the Courts convict you of fish and wildlife charges. A conviction could result in the revocation of your hunting or fishing privileges, not just in Everett but potentially in other areas of Washington state as well. Imagine the impact on your ability to visit Lake Stevens for a weekend fishing trip or explore the trails in Snoqualmie National Forest for hunting. A fish and game conviction could also result in hefty fines, serious jail time, and a permanent criminal record, which could tarnish your reputation and restrict future opportunities. Don't risk it. If you're facing charges, you need an experienced Everett attorney to protect your rights and fight for your future.

Types Of Fish And Game Charges

In Washington state, fish and game charges can carry serious legal consequences and impact your ability to participate in outdoor activities. Here are some common types of fish and game charges we can help defend against:

• Fishing Without A License
• Hunting Without A License
• Illegal Fishing (Poaching)
• Illegal Hunting (Poaching)
• Fishing In Closed Waters
• Hunting In Restricted Areas
• Overfishing/Exceeding Limits
• Trapping Without A License
• Possessing Illegal Wildlife
• Use Of Illegal Hunting Methods
• Taking Protected Species
• Failure To Tag A Kill
• Waste Of Game

Our experienced Everett attorneys can defend you against any of these fish and game charges by examining the evidence, questioning the methods used in your arrest, and using local knowledge of Washington state's wildlife regulations. If you're facing a fish or game violation, contact us today for the experienced defense you need.

What A Fish And Wildlife Attorney Does

A fish and wildlife attorney specializes in defending individuals charged with violations related to the hunting, fishing, and conservation laws in Washington state. These types of charges often involve complex regulations designed to protect wildlife and natural resources. Here's what a fish and wildlife attorney can do for you:

• Defense Against Illegal Hunting and Fishing Charges: Our attorneys will evaluate the specifics of your charges. Whether it's unlicensed hunting, illegal fishing, or poaching, we’ll work towards reducing or dismissing them. Our team will also scrutinize the circumstances of the alleged offense.
• Negotiate Plea Deals: In scenarios where a conviction seems inevitable, we can negotiate with prosecutors for a reduced sentence, a plea deal for lesser charges, or alternative penalties like conservation programs.
• Court Representation: If your case goes to trial, your attorney will argue on your behalf, cross-examine witnesses, and contest the prosecution's evidence to aim for reduced charges or an acquittal.
• Protecting Your Rights and Reputation: A conviction can adversely affect your reputation and future hunting or fishing activities. An attorney ensures fair handling of your case under the law, mitigating long-term impacts.
• Regulation Compliance Assistance: For those who hunt, fish, or trap, a fish and wildlife attorney offers crucial advice on adhering to regulatory requirements, helping you maintain good standing.
• Appeals and License Restoration: If convicted and you've lost your privileges, an attorney can assist in filing an appeal or restoring your license, advocating for reduced penalties and the resumption of your activities.

What Are The Penalties For Fish And Wildlife Charges In Washington State?

In Washington state, penalties for fish and wildlife violations include:

• Misdemeanor Penalties: In Everett, fishing or hunting without a license is a gross misdemeanor. You could face up to 364 days in jail and fines of $5,000. Violating fishing rules in restricted areas may add fines of up to $1,000, jail time, and the loss of any illegally taken wildlife.
• Felony Penalties: You can face felony charges for poaching endangered species or using illegal hunting methods. These felonies carry penalties of up to five years in prison and fines exceeding $10,000.
• License Revocation: Serious violations may result in losing your hunting and fishing licenses. Repeated offenses can lead to a lifetime ban in Washington.
• Civil Penalties: Courts may impose civil fines on top of criminal penalties. You could be ordered to pay restitution for illegally taking wildlife or damaging habitats.
• Non-Legal Consequences: A conviction harms your reputation, especially in outdoor-focused communities like Everett. It can also hurt your career, particularly in wildlife management or law enforcement.

Given the serious nature of these penalties, anyone accused of fish and wildlife violations in Washington state should seek experienced legal representation to navigate the charges, challenge the evidence, and negotiate for reduced penalties, thereby protecting their rights throughout the legal process.

Skilled Everett Fish And Wildlife Defense Attorneys Ready To Fight For You

Everett offers some of the best opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy fishing and hunting in the Pacific Northwest. For fishing, Lake Tye and the Snohomish River provide excellent spots to catch salmon, steelhead, and trout. If you're looking for a hunting adventure, the nearby Mount Pilchuck State Park offers a range of game species, including deer, elk, and waterfowl. Flowing Lake and Ebey Island are also popular areas for hunters looking to experience the natural beauty of the region while pursuing wildlife. Whether you're casting a line on the serene Skykomish River or tracking game in the dense woods surrounding North Cascades National Park, Everett is a true paradise for anyone who loves nature and outdoor sports.

We firmly believe that fish and wildlife charges can be successfully challenged no matter where you live. Whether you live in Everett, elsewhere in Washington, or outside the state, our attorneys have been defending clients against these types of charges for over 20 years. Our team of experienced and aggressive fish and wildlife defense attorneys will fight to protect your rights, your reputation, and your ability to enjoy outdoor activities in the future. Don't face these charges alone—call us today to discuss your case and to help promote a possible positive outcome.

Regulations relating to Fish & Wildlife are some of the most confusing and unforgiving in Everett, Washington. Most people who are accused of a violation are in their position due to an honest mistake. Unfortunately, Fish & Wildlife officers have very little sympathy and are typically not merciful. They will forward to the prosecutor every possible violation they can come up with.

In some instances, they will even try to take your possessions by way of civil forfeiture. If they believe you used one of your possessions during the commission of a Fish & Wildlife crime, they will seize it. If this is happening to you, it is important to contact an attorney immediately. There are deadlines to respond to the seizure so do not wait otherwise you might lose your right to fight the seizure.

A conviction for a Fish & Wildlife crime can result in jail, fines, probation, loss of hunting and fishing rights, thousands of dollars of restitution (beyond just the fine), and seized property. If you have questions about what you are currently facing, do not hesitate to give our Everett office a call. We are more than happy to discuss your situation and what you can do moving forward.