Q: What are the key qualities of an effective criminal defense attorney? A: The best criminal defense attorneys are characterized by their extensive legal knowledge, experience in local courts, strong negotiation skills, and a deep commitment to defending their clients’ rights. They should also be excellent communicators, both in explaining the legal process to their […]

Q: What constitutes a felony violation of a no-contact order in Tacoma, WA?RCW 10.99.040 A: In Washington state, including Tacoma, a violation of a no-contact order typically becomes a felony if the individual has two or more prior convictions for violating similar orders. If the individual does not have prior convictions, such violations are usually treated […]

Q: What happens to a no-contact order when a domestic violence case is dismissed in Tacoma, WA? A: When a domestic violence case is dismissed in Tacoma, WA, any associated no-contact orders are automatically lifted. This is because the court loses jurisdiction over the individual once the case is dismissed, removing the legal basis for […]

Q: What defines unlawful imprisonment in Tacoma, WA? A: Unlawful imprisonment in Tacoma occurs when a person knowingly restrains another without legal authority, hindering their freedom of movement. This crime is classified as a Class C felony under RCW 9A.40.040, punishable by up to five years in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both. The statute […]

What Exactly Is Probable Cause in Washington State? Probable cause is a foundational legal concept that protects your rights under both the U.S. and Washington State Constitutions. In Tacoma and throughout Washington, police must meet this standard before they can arrest you, search your property, or seize evidence. But what exactly does that mean? Understanding […]

In many cases in which a person is arrested due to suspicion of DUI, the arresting officer will ask the person to submit to a blood or breath test. If the person refuses to undergo chemical testing after he or she is arrested, evidence of the refusal can be submitted at trial to establish the […]

In Tacoma, Washington, it is unlawful to operate a vehicle while impaired due to alcohol, and anyone who does so may face criminal charges. In most instances, the State will possess direct evidence that a person charged with a DUI crime was operating the vehicle while allegedly under the influence. If they do not, however, […]

It is not uncommon for the Washington courts to issue no-contact orders, preventing people from interacting with their victims. If a person subject to a no-contact order subsequently violates its terms, they may be charged with a crime.  They can also have their bail increased on any pending matters or be given jail time on […]

One of the tenets of the criminal justice system is the right to a trial before an impartial and fair jury of one’s peers. As such, if a juror demonstrates a bias, it is unlikely that they will be seated on the jury. If they are and the defendant is subsequently convicted, they may have […]

Many Washington drivers have a baseline understanding of what a driving under the influence (DUI) conviction might mean for their personal freedoms. The potential penalties a judge could impose may include incarceration, fines and probation. Will Your License Be Suspended After a DUI Conviction in Washington? It is also quite common for the courts to […]