Domestic violence is an attempt or threat to use physical force against another domestic resident. It is usually a misdemeanor but can result in a felony charge, depending on the specifics of your case. While some consequences of a domestic violence conviction are...
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Will a restraining order go on my public record?
If someone serves you with a protection or restraining order in Washington state, you might wonder what the repercussions are, especially if the order can have a long-term impact on your future. Restraining orders go on your public record If the court issues a...
DUI expungements in Washington: is it possible?
Washington State takes DUIs exceptionally seriously, and its laws reflect that. While getting a DUI is quite common, and many states will be forgiving in terms of allowing expungements of criminal records associated with a DUI after a certain period, this is not the...
What are DUI checkpoints?
Most drivers have likely at least heard of DUI checkpoints before, even if they have not encountered one. What are these checkpoints? And why do they pose something potentially controversial? Defining a checkpoint LifeSafer looks at DUI checkpoints and their purpose....
Know your options when faced with domestic violence charges
Washington state takes domestic violence very seriously. Once someone files a domestic abuse complaint, police officers in some jurisdictions have the authority to make an arrest within four hours if they establish probable cause. Sometimes, they can even do this...
Can a DUI affect my college opportunities?
Making mistakes is part of growing up. Unfortunately, when those mistakes involve alcohol the stakes can be too high Young people convicted of driving under the influence in the state of Washington face criminal charges, jail time and other penalties. But a conviction...
The dos and don’ts of awaiting criminal trial
U.S. law presumes all citizens are innocent until proven guilty. In the state of Washington, criminal defendants have a right to post bail after an arrest and await trial at home unless the charge is a violent or capital crime. If you are out on bail, you are free to...
Reasons you may not be able to purchase a gun
Frustration abounds when an attempt to buy a gun ends in denial. You only want a firearm for protection or sporting activities. Nefarious purposes are not on your mind. Correcting this situation begins with determining the cause for refusal. There are a variety of...
Can I refuse a breath test?
The sight of lights flashing in your rearview mirror can make anyone uneasy. Those nerves only increase when the police pull you over for suspected drunk driving. During such a tense moment, you might wonder if the law requires you to blow into a test. The rules, and...
What does it mean to have your record expunged?
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...