The Smith & White Blog

When facing a DUI charge in Washington, the cost of hiring a DUI lawyer can vary significantly based on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the specific county in which the charge is being handled. Here’s a detailed overview of what you can expect to pay for DUI defense […]

What is reasonable suspicion, and how is it defined across Washington State? Reasonable suspicion is a legal standard that empowers law enforcement officers in Washington State to stop and briefly detain individuals when they have specific, articulable facts suggesting that someone may be engaged in criminal activity. This standard is less stringent than probable cause, […]

As we approach the two-year anniversary of the landmark State v. Sum decision by the Washington State Supreme Court, it’s timely to reflect on its profound implications, especially as they intersect with the commemoration of Juneteenth. This ruling, delivered on June 9, 2022, marked a pivotal shift in how legal systems recognize and address the […]

In DUI cases, the prosecution will often rely on chemical testing demonstrating a defendant’s BAC to establish guilt. Guilt can be established via other means, though, such as circumstantial evidence. Further, as shown in a recent DUI case, merely because a court admits a defendant’s pre-arrest statements, does not mean a conviction should be vacated. […]

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Washington State can vary widely depending on several factors including the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the specific charges involved. Here’s a broad overview: Hourly Rates and Retainers Many criminal defense attorneys charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $300 to […]

Does Washington Law Guarantee In-Person Jury Selection in Criminal Cases? If you’ve been charged with assault in Tacoma, WA, you likely understand that you have a constitutional right to a trial by jury. But does that right extend to how the jury is selected? Specifically, does the law guarantee that jury selection—also known as voir […]

Understanding Tacoma’s Municipal Code is crucial for anyone navigating the local criminal justice system. This blog aims to demystify some of the specific regulations that impact criminal defense within the city, providing valuable insights for residents and lawyers alike. Key Tacoma Municipal Code Provisions Tacoma’s Municipal Code outlines specific local regulations that can significantly impact […]

In Washington State, the specter of asset forfeiture looms large, allowing the government to seize property on the suspicion it’s tied to criminal activity—no conviction required. However, you’re not powerless if caught in this net. Understanding the innocent owner defense can be your key to fighting back. Step 1: Understanding the Basics Asset forfeiture in […]

Under Washington law, the prosecution bears the burden of proof in criminal trials. The State is permitted to use various means to establish a defendant’s guilt, including, in some instances, business records, which include recorded phone calls. As discussed in a recent Washington domestic violence case, however, such records are only admissible if their authenticity […]

Under Washington law, the penalties for DUI crimes increase with each subsequent offense. Similarly, a 3rd or subsequent court order violation (both protection orders and no contact orders) can raise that allegation to the level of a felony.  Notably, prior offenses include not only DUI (and court order) convictions in Washington but also those from […]