Criminal Defense

If you are facing criminal charges in Washington state, you probably already know how overwhelming and life-changing this experience can be. From minor misdemeanors to serious felonies, these charges can carry consequences that can ultimately affect your personal, professional, and even financial life.

Criminal defense laws in Washington are designed to ensure that everyone accused of a crime is treated fairly and given the opportunity to defend themselves. However, wading through the complexities of the law can be hard without the right legal guidance at your side.

Skilled criminal defense attorneys can play a big role in your case by providing personalized legal representation tailored to your unique situation. They understand Washington’s legal statutes, court procedures, and all the strategies necessary to protect your rights effectively.

From taking a deep dive into the evidence presented by the prosecution to identifying any violations of due process, an experienced criminal defense attorney can help build a strong defense that can lead to reduced charges, dismissed cases, or minimized penalties.

However, one of the biggest advantages of working with a criminal defense attorney is their ability to negotiate with prosecutors and advocate on your behalf for more favorable outcomes like plea bargains or alternative sentencing options.

You will find the criminal defense laws in the state are guided by various statutes in the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). These statutes under the Washington Criminal Code clearly define these crimes, the safeguards in place, and the rights you have when accused. Here are some key provisions you will find relevant to criminal defense.

Under this section, you will find definitions and general principles as they apply to criminal defense law in Washington. This statute includes standards for establishing criminal intent and jurisdiction and serves as a solid foundation for understanding how these crimes are prosecuted and defended.

This chapter outlines the procedures involved in criminal cases, including arraignments, preliminary hearings, and jury trials. It ensures that defendants receive fair treatment under the law and establishes the framework to build a strong defense.

This chapter governs the rules of evidence in criminal cases. Some provisions discuss the admissibility of prior convictions and witness testimony, which can significantly impact the outcome of a defense strategy.

This section details the different classifications of offenses like misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, and felonies and discusses their corresponding penalties. A good criminal defense attorney uses all this information to argue for reduced sentencing or alternative penalties.

This chapter explains the requirements for delivering verdicts in a criminal case, including provisions for lesser-included offenses, ensuring that defendants in criminal defense cases aren’t convicted of crimes without a sufficient legal basis.

Each statute plays an essential role in guarding the rights of anyone accused of a crime and ensures that the justice system is fair. A criminal defense attorney uses these legal provisions to build a strong defense to protect their client’s constitutional rights and seek out more favorable outcomes.

Washington state, located in the Pacific Northwest, is well-known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant city scene, and diverse communities. From the busy urban areas in the state to the beauty of Mount Rainier and Puget Sound, Washington has a blend of natural wonders and cultural landmarks that keep people wanting to visit or seek out residency.

It doesn’t matter where in the state you choose to reside; its legal system can be complex, and this is where a skilled criminal defense attorney can become an invaluable ally. They help residents across Washington defend themselves against criminal allegations and work toward the best outcomes.

From theft and drug charges to DUIs and violent crimes, a criminal defense attorney’s local knowledge can make a big difference, especially in a state with unique statutes and court practices.

In Washington, defendants are protected under the US Constitution and the Constitution of the State of Washington. These rights include the following:

• The Right to Legal Counsel: Anyone charged with a crime is entitled to legal representation.
• The Right to a Fair Trial: This included protections against self-incrimination, the right to confront witnesses, and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
• Search and Seizure Protections: Under Article 1, Section 7 of its constitution, Washington has protections in place that provide greater privacy rights than the Fourth Amendment.

Facing criminal charges alone can feel overwhelming. Hire criminal defense attorneys to gain access to their knowledge and expertise. Criminal law can prove to be complex, and since you probably don’t possess an in-depth knowledge of the relevant statutes, procedures, and case law, you need someone who knows all of this and can ensure your civil rights are protected.

Criminal defense attorneys also have courtroom experience and a clear understanding of the judge’s expectations, making them equipped to effectively present your case.

We believe every criminal charge can be effectively challenged with the right approach. Our attorneys have been successfully defending clients against criminal allegations throughout Washington for over two decades.

So if you or a loved one are facing criminal charges, it is in your best interest to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The sooner you have a skilled attorney on your side, the better your chances of building a stronger defense.

Our Washington criminal defense attorneys are dedicated, aggressive advocates willing to fight to protect your freedom and ensure you receive fair treatment under the law.

If you have recently been arrested or are facing a criminal charge here in Washington State, it is important that you speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.

You should not speak to anyone regarding the matter, especially the police, until you have consulted with and experienced criminal attorney. In almost every situation involving criminal charges, silence is nearly always your best option. You are under no obligation to speak to the police, and you should politely, but firmly, refuse to do so.

At Washington State Attorneys, we have the experience and knowledge to help you. Contact us today to learn how our Washington state criminal defense attorneys can protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome in your case. We have offices in Seattle, Everett, Tacoma, and Bellevue.

Learn more about the criminal charges we defend below: