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 […]

“Tacoma Felony Attorneys: Navigating the High-Stakes World of Felony Charges in Pierce County” Introduction: Felony charges, whether it’s your first time encountering the law or not, can upend your world in an instant. More severe than misdemeanors, felonies leave a long shadow over one’s life, carrying penalties that could include extended prison time and crushing […]

Washington’s Criminal Procedure Code lists various crimes as domestic violence if they involve harm or threats of harm. These crimes include serious offenses like assault, kidnapping and rape but also include things like breaking into someone’s home (burglary) or not following a court’s protective order. The critical thing that makes an act of domestic violence […]

 “Navigating Tacoma’s Municipal Code: A Guide for Criminal Defense” Introduction: 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 […]

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 […]

Washington courts rely, in part, on the convicted party’s offender score when determining sentences for people convicted of crimes under Washington law. Following recent changes in the law, such scores cannot include juvenile adjudications, but as discussed in a recent Washington DUI case, the amendment to the law does not apply retroactively. If you are […]

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 […]