Are Police Officers ‘Coaching’ Witnesses in Tacoma Domestic Violence Cases? In Tacoma, WA domestic violence investigations—particularly those involving alleged strangulation—law enforcement officers often ask specific, targeted questions during witness interviews. These questions are rooted in training protocols designed to protect victims and identify potentially fatal assaults. But what happens when those well-intentioned questions begin to […]

If you or someone you know has been charged with a misdemeanor in Tacoma, you may have heard about Tacoma Community Court. This program offers an alternative approach to traditional court proceedings by addressing the root causes of criminal behavior. Below, we’ve answered common questions to help you understand how Community Court works and whether […]

In criminal cases, evidence of past actions is not always admissible, especially if it risks prejudicing the jury against the defendant. As demonstrated in a recent Washington court decision, this principle plays a crucial role in ensuring fair trials, particularly in cases involving sensitive accusations like domestic violence. If you are accused of a crime […]

The police have a lot of power when it comes to investigating crimes and searching for evidence. Even so, their power is not limitless, and you have rights that must be protected. If the police ask for permission to search your car and you say no, they cannot search without a warrant. However, the police […]

In Washington, assault charges do not always arise out of one person striking or hitting another. Instead, they can be based on conduct deemed offensive under the law. When reviewing convictions arising out of such charges convictions, courts consider both the intentionality of the act and its impact on the victim. A recent Washington case […]

Facing a DUI charge can be overwhelming, but understanding the steps to take afterward is essential for managing the situation and minimizing its impact on your life. Washington State has specific procedures and laws that apply to DUI cases, including consequences that affect your driver’s license, criminal record, and more. Here’s a step-by-step guide for […]

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious criminal offense in the Evergreen State, as it is across the United States. Suppose you’re caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration that exceeds the legal limit. In that case, you can face legal consequences, including the suspension of your driver’s license. One question that frequently arises […]

A criminal record is an official document that contains information about an individual’s criminal history, including arrests, charges, convictions, and sentences. In Washington State, a criminal record is created when a person is arrested, charged, or convicted of a crime. This information is recorded in various databases, including those maintained by the Washington State Patrol […]

In Tacoma, there are numerous assault crimes of varying degrees, and each offense requires the State to establish different elements. If the State fails to meet this burden, it should not be able to sustain a conviction. This was demonstrated in a recent opinion issued in a Washington assault case, in which the court reversed […]

Understanding Civil Protection Orders in Pierce County, WA: What You Need to Know Before You File If you’re considering seeking a civil protection order in Tacoma or elsewhere in Pierce County, the legal process can feel intimidating. At Smith & White, we understand how emotionally charged these situations are—and we’re here to guide you. Whether […]