Misdemeanor Crimes in Seattle

Misdemeanors can be as life-altering as felonies. If convicted, you will face jail time, significant fines, probation, and a lasting criminal record. When you're facing a misdemeanor charge in King County courts, it's crucial to have an experienced attorney by your side who knows how to fight these charges and minimize the penalties.

Our Seattle misdemeanor defense attorneys bring over 20 years of experience defending clients in King County. We are proud of our personalized service and reputation for delivering strong defenses. Whether you face charges for a DUI, theft, assault, or any other misdemeanor, our defense attorneys know the strategies that work. Let our Seattle-based attorneys specializing in misdemeanors defense protect your rights and your future. Contact our law offices today for a free case review to learn more.

Misdemeanor Charges Our Defense Attorneys Fight In Seattle

In Seattle, misdemeanors are typically tried at:

Seattle Municipal Court
Seattle Justice Center
600 Fifth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98124-4987

Our Seattle defense attorneys have a history of defending the following misdemeanors:

• Disorderly Conduct
• Criminal Trespass In The Second Degree
• Theft In The Third Degree
• Driving With A Suspended License In The Third Degree
• Minor In Possession Of Alcohol
• Public Intoxication
• Reckless Boating
• Littering On Public Property
• Unlawful Camping On Public Land
• Malicious Mischief In The Third Degree
• Prostitution
• Indecent Exposure
• Obstructing A Law Enforcement Officer
• Failure To Appear In Court
• Possession Of Drug Paraphernalia

For misdemeanors occurring in unincorporated areas near Seattle or in cities without their own municipal courts, cases are generally tried in King County District Court, which has various locations, including a facility in downtown Seattle. The court where your misdemeanor is tried determines the procedures, judges, and prosecutors involved. Seattle Municipal Court and the King County District Court operate with their own judges and have specific protocols for handling cases, including diversion programs for certain first-time offenses. Having a Seattle defense attorney familiar with the King County court system is necessary to achieve a favorable outcome for your case.

What Are The Penalties For A Misdemeanor Conviction In Washington State?

In Washington state, a misdemeanor conviction can lead to significant penalties, including:

1. Simple Misdemeanors: Simple misdemeanors are the less severe category involving offenses like disorderly conduct or minor traffic violations. Maximum penalties include:

• Up to 90 days in jail
• Fines of up to $1,000
• Possible probation or community service

2. Gross Misdemeanors: Gross misdemeanors are more serious and include offenses like DUI, fourth-degree assault, and third-degree theft. Maximum penalties include:

• Up to 364 days in jail
• Fines of up to $5,000
• Probation or additional penalties, depending on the offense

Although misdemeanors may seem minor, the penalties can disrupt your life in significant ways. With our Seattle misdemeanor defense team, you can negotiate for reduced charges, alternative sentencing like diversion programs, or even dismissal.

How Our Seattle Criminal Defense Lawyers Will Fight For You

Our approach to misdemeanor defense in Seattle is rooted in over 20 years of experience. We begin every case with a comprehensive review of the charges and evidence, whether the alleged offense occurred near Pike Place Market, on the bustling streets of Capitol Hill, or in a quiet neighborhood like Ballard. Using our local knowledge, we'll review several misdemeanor defense strategies, including:

• Lack of Evidence: Challenge the prosecution's evidence to prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt.
• False Allegations: Demonstrate that the criminal allegations are untrue or the result of a misunderstanding.
• Mistaken Identity: Prove that law enforcement misidentified you as the person who committed the crime.
• Self-Defense: In assault cases, argue that you acted in self-defense or to protect others.
• Lack of Intent: Prove you did not have the intent required to commit the offense, such as in theft or vandalism charges.
• Unlawful Search or Seizure: Challenge evidence law enforcement obtained through an illegal search or seizure.
• Alibi: Provide evidence that you were elsewhere when the alleged offense occurred.
• Insufficient Warning or Notice: Argue that you were not properly informed of the consequences or rules, such as in traffic or zoning violations.
• Coercion or Duress: Show that you were forced or pressured into committing the offense, negating criminal intent.
• Statute Of Limitations: Prove law enforcement filed the charges after the legal time limit for prosecuting the offense had passed.

Our attorneys know the nuances of King County courts, from the preferences of individual judges to the availability of diversion programs and alternative sentencing options. We prioritize keeping your record clean and protecting your future. Whether through negotiating for reduced charges, exploring community service or counseling options, or fighting for outright dismissal in court, you can rest assured we will get a fair and favorable outcome. With personalized service and a commitment to defending your rights, we are the legal team you need to face misdemeanor charges at Seattle's courts.

Schedule Your Free Consultation With Our Experienced Seattle Misdemeanor Attorneys

Our Seattle misdemeanor defense attorneys love this city. From checking out the booths at Pike Place Market to taking in the stunning views at Kerry Park, there's always something to enjoy in Seattle. Whether you're cheering on the Mariners at T-Mobile Park, exploring the trails of Discovery Park, or shopping in University Village, the city offers endless opportunities for adventure. Events like Bumbershoot and Seafair bring people together, while peaceful escapes like the Seattle Japanese Garden or Alki Beach provide moments of calm. A misdemeanor conviction could jeopardize your ability to enjoy all the wonderful experiences Seattle has to offer.

Our lawyers understand the gravity of these misdemeanor charges and know their potential negative impact on your life. As local attorneys with a deep knowledge of Seattle's courts and Washington state laws, count on us to challenge misdemeanor charges in King County. Whether it's traffic offenses, theft, or disorderly conduct, our 20 years of experience and service give us the tools to build a strong defense tailored to your case.

Don't let a misdemeanor charge take away all that Seattle has to offer. Call our legal team for a free consultation.

Our Seattle Misdemeanor Criminal Attorneys Handle All Criminal Misdemeanor Cases

Many people don’t realize the severity of a criminal misdemeanor conviction until they attempt to handle the charges without help from qualified Seattle misdemeanor attorneys. Common misdemeanor offenses include DUI, minor drug charges, vandalism, and some cases of domestic violence. Not only do Seattle misdemeanor convictions incur severe punishments from the state that include hefty fines and jail time, but they can also have far reaching effects on your job, your family, and your future.

Misdemeanor crimes can be especially damaging to young people. A minor DUI or drug-related conviction can haunt a person for many years, affecting their ability to get a good job and a reasonable head start in life. Our Seattle misdemeanor lawyers understand how important these cases can be, and treat every situation with the personalized attention it demands.

Understand your Charges with Help from Our Seattle Misdemeanor Criminal Lawyers

Our Seattle misdemeanor attorneys understand that every case is different, but the state has a clearly defined set of penalties that can be imposed for various convictions. These penalties often include jail time, fines, probation, and in cases involving DUI, losing one’s driver’s license. With help from qualified Seattle misdemeanor lawyers, it is often possible to have punishments mitigated via a plea bargain.

Some common misdemeanor crimes include:

• Driving Under the Influence – There are a number of different DUI related crimes that include physical control, minor DUI, and reckless driving. Our Seattle misdemeanor criminal attorneys understand the severity of these cases, and work tirelessly to do everything legally possible to have DUI related charges dismissed or reduced.
• Domestic Violence – Less severe cases of domestic violence are considered a gross misdemeanor, while more severe offenses are considered a felony. Either way, professional representation from our Seattle misdemeanor criminal lawyers will ensure that your rights are protected.
• Drug Offenses – Drug possession where small amounts are involved may seem harmless to some, but the penalties can be surprisingly severe.
• Theft Crimes – Also called shoplifting, our Seattle misdemeanor lawyers understand how a conviction could cause life altering consequences, so they attempt to build a defense based on the facts of the case.

Our Seattle Misdemeanor Attorneys Offer a Free Consultation

You can get answers concerning your case today without cost or obligation by contacting one of our Seattle legal professionals. Our free consultation offer makes it possible for you to get a better understanding of your misdemeanor crime, so that you can make an informed choice concerning representation.

If you retain our services, our qualified Seattle attorneys will go to work immediately on your behalf, putting our more than three decades of combined experience to work for you. Don’t let a Seattle misdemeanor derail your life – contact Washington State Attorneys today and take steps to ensure a bright future.