Gross Misdemeanor

Gross misdemeanors committed in Washington state are serious and can have long-lasting consequences for those convicted. Our skilled criminal defense attorneys bring years of experience to the table and can help you handle this somewhat complex legal situation.

We understand these charges can be severe and have far-reaching impacts on your personal and professional life. Whether you’re dealing with a conviction for assault, theft, or a drug-related offense, our legal team is committed to providing you with the best defense possible.

In Washington state, a gross misdemeanor is a criminal offense that is considered less severe than a felony but more serious than a simple misdemeanor. Gross misdemeanors carry penalties of up to 364 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $5,000. Some common offenses that fall under this category include DUI (driving under the influence), assault in the fourth degree, and malicious mischief.

We will take a closer look at this below, but before we do, it is important to know that the laws governing gross misdemeanors are outlined in RCW 9A.20.021. It states that a gross misdemeanor is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a period not exceeding one year or a fine not exceeding $5,000, or both.

This charge is considered significant, and it’s essential to understand that even a gross misdemeanor conviction can have long-term effects on your criminal record, employment opportunities, and personal freedom.

To better understand the details of this statute and the legal consequences of a gross misdemeanor, you can review RCW 9A.20.021. Let’s take a closer look at some of the information outlined in these statutes.

• RCW 46.61.502 – DUI (Driving Under the Influence): For a first-offense DUI, penalties include up to 364 days in jail, fines of up to $5,000, mandatory DUI education, probation, and the possible suspension of your driver's license for up to a year. A DUI can be charged as a gross misdemeanor depending on the circumstances, like if it is your first or second offense, for example. However, it is also important to keep in mind that the penalties depend on the specifics of your case and that the law gives the courts discretion to impose the sentences they see fit.
• RCW 9A.36.041 – Assault in the Fourth Degree: Assault in the fourth degree can include charges for simple assault or domestic assault. It is considered a gross misdemeanor and is punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $5,000 if convicted. This offense involves knowingly or recklessly causing bodily harm to another person. If the crime was committed in a domestic violence context, additional penalties may apply. These include mandatory counseling and no contact orders.
• RCW 9A.48.080 – Malicious Mischief in the Third Degree: This involves damage to property under $750 and is punishable by up to 364 days in jail and fines of up to $5,000. This statute is for those situations where someone maliciously damages or defaces property. Property damage can include vandalism, graffiti, and any other kind of intentional harm you make toward a person or public property.
• RCW 9A.56.040 – Theft in the Third Degree: With this charge, if the value of the stolen property is less than $750, the theft charge is considered a gross misdemeanor. This means it is punishable by up to 364 days in jail and fines of up to $5,000 like the others. It also covers charges of theft of property where the value doesn’t exceed $750. Theft in the third degree applies to shoplifting or taking things from someone else’s property without their permission.
• RCW 9A.56.150 – Shoplifting: This is when the value of goods stolen is under $750. This charge carries penalties that can include up to 364 days in jail and fines of up to $5,000. For example, it applies when a person is caught stealing merchandise from a retail store. Charges for repeat offenders may be escalated and the penalties more severe.

It is important to note that the penalties for these gross misdemeanor crimes depend on whether you have prior convictions or if the crime was committed under aggravating circumstances. Either way, understanding these statutes will prove to be beneficial when finding a defense for your case.

Also, judges can impose alternative sentences like probation, community service, or diversion programs for some gross misdemeanor offenses. While these alternatives can reduce the overall severity of your penalties, they often require strict compliance with the conditions the judge sets in court, like regular check-ins, drug or alcohol testing, or the completion of educational programs.

Unfortunately, gross misdemeanors are a common category of criminal charges in Washington. Local law enforcement is good at imposing the laws, and the penalties vary based on jurisdiction. You can always refer to Washington state crime data to learn more.

If you are accused of a gross misdemeanor, you are likely facing the full attention of local law enforcement officials and prosecutors. Penalties like jail time, substantial fines, and even a permanent criminal record are real risks if you are accused of offenses like DUIs, assaults, theft, and malicious mischief. In fact, local judges often take these matters very seriously and apply the maximum penalties available under Washington law.

Our criminal defense attorneys in Washington believe that every gross misdemeanor charge can be challenged. We are here to ensure that you get the best possible defense for your case.

So if you or a loved one are facing a gross misdemeanor charge, don’t try to tackle it alone. Our team will work relentlessly to help safeguard your rights and minimize the impact these criminal charges can have on your life.

With our aggressive defense tactics and deep understanding of the local legal landscape, we can ensure you have the best defense.

If you're facing a gross misdemeanor charge, you need the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer.

A gross misdemeanor is a criminal charge with a maximum penalty of 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. These types of crimes are more serious than misdemeanors but less serious than felonies. The statute of limitations on gross misdemeanors are two years, meaning the prosecutor has up to two years to file a criminal charge after the alleged criminal act took place.

The most common gross misdemeanor is a DUI. Other gross misdemeanors include reckless driving.

If you've been charged with any of these crimes, we can help you. Washington State Attorneys have helped many people like you navigate the criminal justice process. We're here to answer your questions, advise you of your options, and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

Call us today for a free consultation.