The holiday season represents hustle and bustle as shoppers cram into stores to shop for friends and family members. However, with the chaos that often distracts the most diligent security guard comes the possibility of shoplifting rings invading their retail space....
Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer
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Criminal Defense
Unexpected consequences of domestic violence charges
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...
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...
Do I need a background check to buy a gun in Washington state?
People have debated whether states should require a background check for individuals who want to purchase firearms nationwide for years. In Washington state, a person must pass a background check to buy a gun. This law aims to ensure that these types of weapons do not...
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...
Can I get a DUI for “sleeping it off” in my car?
If you are facing DUI charges in Washington for "sleeping it off" in your car, you probably have questions about your situation and what your rights are. Here are some answers to the questions you may have about Washington State DUI law. Can I get a DUI for "sleeping...
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...
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...
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...