A recent decision by the Washington Court of Appeals, which upheld a man’s conviction for assault, offers some useful insight on two separate aspects of criminal trials. In deciding to uphold the trial court’s decision, the appeals court ruled against the accused man because it determined that the way the state made challenges to certain […]

Are you facing a weapons charge? In Washington there are many possible weapons charges and they are all taken seriously. They can stand by themselves, such as illegal possession of a firearm, or they can be in conjunction with another criminal charge, as is the case with armed robbery. You’re understandably concerned what this will […]

It might seem like a no-brainer to say but if you are facing criminal charges you will want to seriously consider any and all advice given to you by your defense attorney. Of course if something doesn’t make sense you will want to ask questions but deliberate over the answer given. Remember that there are […]

Have you missed a court date? And you are now worrying how that’s going to affect you? Or have you already been charged with bail jumping or failure to appear? In Washington this is taken very seriously and does have some harsh penalties. Things do come up in life. We know that. You may very […]

Being charged with a crime like assault is bad enough. Being charged with domestic violence assault or any crime designated as domestic violence in Washington is horrible. You’ve got the usual penalties that are attached to any crime looming over you like jail time and fines. Plus there are other penalties that come with a […]

You’ve heard the expression “don’t judge a book by its cover”? Perhaps you even believe it and practice it in regards to people. So, perhaps you’re thinking, “It shouldn’t matter how I dress for court, I should simply be judged in regards to the merits of the case.” Maybe you’re right and maybe in a […]

As you are discovering, domestic violence in Washington is taken very seriously, and there are many potential consequences. Along with potential jail time and fines, you’re also probably concerned about the no contact order (NCO) that may have been placed on you. Violating a no contact order is a second criminal offense. Violating an order […]

There is a major difference in the arrest process of domestic violence crimes of which you should be aware.The difference is on the rules of making an arrest. Washington police officers have in the past been held civilly liable for not properly protecting a victim of domestic violence. This resulted in there now being a […]

Have you been accused of domestic violence assault in Pierce County / Tacoma or other parts of Washington? You  may have just discovered that a domestic violence charge may also threaten your firearm rights. Almost every citizen is aware of the second amendment and that it gives Americans the right to “bear arms”. So, it is […]

You were arrested for DUI, you were tried and you were convicted.  Or perhaps you plead guilty.  If you had the assistance of Smith & White, PLLC then you likely plea bargained to a reduced charge that does not have mandatory jail, can come off of your record and does not have a 5 year […]