Gross Misdemeanors in Seattle

Misdemeanors may sound minor, but they have major penalties in Washington state that have a lasting impact on your life. Washington state law classifies misdemeanors into two categories, each with significant consequences:

• Simple Misdemeanor: Penalties include as many as 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
• Gross Misdemeanor: Penalties include as many as 364 days in jail, a fine of up to $5,000, or both.

Beyond these penalties, a conviction for a gross misdemeanor will affect your job prospects, housing applications, and professional licenses. You could also face probation, community service requirements, and mandatory treatment programs, depending on the charge.

When facing these penalties, you need attorneys who are both knowledgeable and deeply familiar with local courts. With 20 years of experience defending misdemeanors in Seattle, our team knows how to navigate the system, build a strong defense, and fight for a favorable outcome in your case. Call our law offices today for a free consultation. Your future is too important to leave to chance.

No matter what type of gross misdemeanor you face in King County Courts, our Seattle misdemeanor defense attorneys know how to challenge it. We've contested the following:

• Assault In The Fourth Degree
• Theft In The Third Degree
• Criminal Trespass In The First Degree
• Driving Under The Influence
• Reckless Driving
• Violation Of A No-Contact Order
• False Reporting
• Obstructing A Law Enforcement Officer
• Possession Of Stolen Property In The Third Degree
• Indecent Exposure

These charges are less serious than felonies, but they can carry almost as harsh penalties. If you're facing a gross misdemeanor charge, our attorneys with 20 years of experience in Seattle courts are here to fight for you. Call us for a free consultation today.

Gross misdemeanors are serious offenses with serious penalties. If you face misdemeanor charges in Seattle courts, here is what to expect:

1. Arrest/Citation: You may be arrested or cited for a gross misdemeanor offense in Seattle.
2. Arraignment: Your first court appearance will be at Seattle Municipal Court at the

Seattle Justice Center
600 Fifth Avenue,
Seattle, WA 98124

Here, the King County judge will formally read the charges against you, and you'll enter your plea. Our Seattle attorneys will review the evidence and guide you in entering the plea most suitable for your case.

1. Pre-Trial Conference: During pre-trial conferences, our attorneys and the prosecution will negotiate a plea deal. With our extensive relationships in the Seattle legal community, we know how to negotiate with local prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties and, in some cases, secure dismissals.
2. Motion Hearings: If applicable, we file pre-trial motions to challenge the prosecution's case. Our Seattle lawyers may include motions to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully, dismiss charges due to lack of probable cause, or limit the scope of admissible evidence.
3. Trial: If your case proceeds to trial, our attorneys will vigorously defend you, leveraging our deep knowledge of Seattle's court tendencies and legal precedents. We'll cross-examine witnesses, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and present a compelling case in your defense.
4. Case Resolution: If convicted, our attorneys will fight for favorable sentencing outcomes, such as probation, community service, or treatment programs, rather than jail time. We also advocate for reduced fines and help mitigate long-term impacts on your life.

No matter what gross misdemeanor charges you face, you need a skilled Seattle attorney fighting by your side. We know exactly how to challenge a gross misdemeanor in King County Courts.

With 20 years of experience in Western Washington Courts, our defense attorneys know how to argue your case. We're familiar with Seattle Municipal Court judges, prosecutors, and their tendencies. For example, we know which judges prioritize rehabilitation over punishment and which prosecutors are open to alternative resolutions like treatment programs.

From cases arising near Green Lake to incidents at Seahawks games in Lumen Field, we craft defenses based on the context of the charge and the specifics of Seattle ordinances. Our longstanding presence in the city means we've built a reputation as skilled, fair, and thorough defense attorneys. Our reputation precedes us, giving us leverage during your case.

When you work with our Seattle defense attorneys, we will explore several defenses, including:

• Lack Of Intent: Prove you did not intentionally commit the offense, such as entering private property near Discovery Park without realizing it was restricted.
• Mistaken Identity: Demonstrate that you were wrongfully identified, particularly in crowded areas like Pike Place Market or during large events like Seafair.
• Unlawful Arrest Or Procedural Errors: Challenge evidence obtained through unlawful search and seizure or question improper arrest procedures.
• Self-Defense: In cases like minor assaults near busy nightlife spots in Capitol Hill, we can argue that you acted to protect yourself or others.
• Lack Of Evidence: Highlight insufficient or inconclusive evidence, such as surveillance footage that doesn't clearly show an alleged theft in a downtown store.
• Diversion Programs: Advocate for entry into Seattle's Community Court or other diversionary programs that focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment.

Seattle's legal scene has its own quirks and nuances. Knowing how local judges approach sentencing and local prosecutors negotiate pleas gives us a serious advantage for your case.

As local attorneys, we know the Emerald City. From the stalls of Pike Place Market to the serene beauty of Green Lake Park, we love exploring our neighborhood and being a part of the community. You’ll catch us cheering on the Seahawks at Lumen Field or catching a Mariners game at T-Mobile Park. We know the nuances of Capitol Hill's nightlife, the shopping at University Village, and the peaceful escapes of Alki Beach. Events like Seafair and Bumbershoot bring people together.

As Seattle-based attorneys specializing in gross misdemeanor defense, we know that every charge can be challenged. Our legal team has the local insight and expertise to reduce charges, minimize penalties, and even secure dismissals. Call our law offices now for a free consultation.

Gross misdemeanors are more serious than misdemeanors. The maximum penalty for a gross misdemeanor is 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. Other penalties often appearing with gross misdemeanor convictions include restitution, drug & alcohol evaluations, court ordered treatment, no contact orders, stay out of area orders, license suspensions, ignition interlock requirements, and even the loss of gun rights.

A City’s Municipal court and a County’s District Court are responsible for handling gross misdemeanor charges. The statute of limitations for a gross misdemeanor is two years, which means the prosecutor has up to two years to decide whether to press charges.

Typical gross misdemeanor charges include a DUI, reckless driving, MIP, Hit & Run Attended, Driving while license suspended 2°, Theft, and Assault 4°.

If you've been charged with a gross misdemeanor, you need an experienced attorney to help you. Call the skilled Seattle, WA criminal defense attorneys at Washington State Attorneys today to learn how we can work toward the best possible solution for you.