Many behaviors that are against state law are also against federal law. Both state and federal statutes prohibit the possession of various drugs and acts of interpersonal violence. Depending on a variety of factors, people accused of breaking the law might face...
There are many different types of evidence the state can collect to prosecute an individual. Some types of evidence are more conclusive and authoritative than others. For example, witness statements are sometimes questionable due to the fallible nature of human...
A person who is facing criminal charges often wants to get their case resolved as quickly as possible. They may also want to know what type of sentence they’re going to have to deal with. For defendants who know that they committed the crime at the heart of the matter, a plea deal might be worth considering. As part of the…
The 4th and 5th Amendments of the United States Constitution safeguard individual rights within the criminal justice system. These amendments protect against unreasonable government actions and ensure fair legal processes. The 4th Amendment focuses on privacy and protection from unreasonable searches and seizures, while the 5th Amendment addresses self-incrimination and due process. Understanding these amendments is crucial for anyone interacting…
Getting arrested is a frightening experience. The process of going into state custody involves a very invasive search, embarrassing photographs and the collection of biometric information, such as someone’s fingerprints. After someone’s arrest, a prosecutor can then present evidence to a judge to bring charges against an individual. At an arraignment hearing, a judge will announce the charges that the…
Those accused of some type of criminal activity in Washington usually have only a few options. They can plead guilty to the charges against them in the hopes that the courts will be lenient, which can be a gamble. They can prepare for a defense, which will mean they take their case to trial. In some situations, those accused of…
The defense attorney representing an individual has an incalculable impact on that person’s future opportunities. What a lawyer does or fails to do can directly influence the outcome of a criminal matter, including whether or not the courts convict an individual and what penalties they may impose. Connecting with the right attorney often requires both financial investment and effort. Public…
Those facing serious criminal charges in Washington often require legal guidance if they want to keep the accusations they face from irrevocably changing their lives. A criminal defense attorney is often someone’s most crucial form of protection when facing criminal prosecution, but they are far from the only professional who may play an important role in someone’s defense and exoneration.…
Being arrested is a terrifying and stressful experience that can turn your life upside down. Whether you are innocent or guilty, knowing your rights and taking the right steps is going to be essential to help you to protect yourself and your future. Unfortunately, many people make critical mistakes after an arrest. These missteps can harm their case and lead…
Felonies are very serious crimes that risk far more severe penalties than misdemeanors do. In addition, you will lose certain rights if convicted of a felony, such as the right to vote and/or purchase a firearm. Therefore, reducing a felony charge to a misdemeanor is in your best interests as this transition can help to mitigate undesirable consequences in the…