In Washington, you can get qualifying criminal records expunged, or vacated, under certain circumstances. If you have faced a criminal investigation, charge or conviction, here is an overview of what you need to know about the expungement process. What are the...
Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer
photo of attorney Timothy P. Kelly
Year: 2021
Did the jury understand their instructions?
Their inexperience is part of what makes a jury valuable. The jury has nothing to gain or lose from the verdict, and jurors have very little experience with the criminal system. Ideally, jurors do not know anyone involved in the trial, and they can give an objective...
Will I lose my license after a DUI arrest?
After an arrest for driving under the influence in the state of Washington, you may face criminal penalties. Additionally, the Department of Licensing (DOL) can restrict your driving privileges. The DOL will suspend your license after two separate scenarios - after a...
Is it possible to lift a restraining order?
Perhaps your partner has decided to end your relationship and seeks to restrict your ability to spend time with your child. You have received a notice of a hearing concerning the restraining order. You have no idea what this includes, and you wonder if it is possible...
Restoring your gun rights after a federal felony conviction
Whether you have a state or federal felony conviction, you are likely to lose your right to possess firearms. For a state conviction, you can ask a court in Washington to restore your gun privileges. Regrettably, reinstating gun rights after a federal felony...
Misconceptions about domestic violence charges
People facing a charge for domestic violence should not rely on what they think is common knowledge about this area of the law. There are a lot of widespread myths about domestic violence. Placing too much reliance on falsehoods about criminal charges could prevent...
WA Supreme Court ruling may void prior drug possession felonies
A recent ruling by the Washington State Supreme Court may have a huge impact on the lives of individuals with previous drug possession convictions. In the case of State v. Blake, the court determined that WA’s then-current drug possession statute (RCW 69.50.4013) was...
Is there any way to make the consequences for a DUI less severe?
A DUI arrest can result in several serious hardships and long-term consequences. Washington’s penalties for driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol can involve hefty fines, license suspension, and jail time. Even if you do not have a strong defense to support...
Strategies to reduce drunk driving risk
The nature of the charges and the penalties for driving under the influence depend on many different factors, such as whether it is a first-time or repeat offense. Nevertheless, in all cases, the consequences can be very serious. While there are defenses against a DUI...
What happens after a domestic violence arrest
If you have a strained relationship with a spouse, romantic partner or household member, you may experience frequent altercations with that person. Even if physical violence does not occur, he or she can potentially make a domestic violence accusation that could...