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Understanding Criminal Defense Law in Washington State

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Criminal charges can undeniably cause some of the most stressful and difficult moments that one has to face in a lifetime. The penalties of a criminal offense can be severe. They can include imprisonment, fines, and often affects one’s employment, housing, and relationships.
 

Criminal charges can include but are not limited to:

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• DUI (Driving under the Influence)

• Drug offenses

• Assault 

• Theft

• Domestic violence

• White-collar crimes

• Sex offenses

• Homicide

 

Legal Implications in Washington State

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Criminal charges can come with legal consequences that are not easily disposed of. The criminal justice process most commonly starts with an arrest and may include several steps such as appearing in court, negotiation and/or bargaining, trial, and sentencing. Every phase involves aspects or defense measures that affect the prospects of the case.
 

A criminal conviction can lead to:

• Incarceration

• Fines and Restitution

• Probation

• Permanent Criminal Record: 

• Loss of Rights

The main task of prosecutors is to prove the guilt of the defendant. A defense lawyer with adequate experience can confront the prosecution’s case and present a defense.

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Duncan Law PLLC is well aware of the severity of criminal charges and aims to offer a strong defense based on our clients’ situations. Our criminal defense representation most commonly includes:

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1. Initial Consultation: First, we do a proper assessment of your case to ensure that we know the charges you are facing and consider possible defenses.

2. Investigation: We carry out a preliminary investigation to get new information, talk to witnesses, and analyze the gaps/weaknesses in the Prosecution case.

3. Pre-Trial Representation

4. Trial Defense: For trial cases, we formulate a defense to counter the state’s evidence.

5. Sentencing Advocacy: If a client is convicted, we fight for the least harsh penalty.

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Call Today For a Consultation
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A criminal charge in Washington State is serious, and anyone charged should engage the services of an attorney as soon as possible. Contact our office at 206-237-7714 to book an appointment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What rights do I have if I am arrested?

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If you are arrested do not panic and do not say anything to the police but exercise your right to be silent. If arrested, in any case, ask for a lawyer and do not answer any questions by the police without the lawyer first.
 

2. Which kind of legal matters fall under criminal law at Duncan Law PLLC?

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We defend all types of criminal charges including DUI, drug charges, assault, theft, domestic violence, white-collar crime, sex crimes, and homicide.
 

3. What type of benefits therefore can I get from a criminal defense attorney?

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An attorney can give legal counsel, appear before and for you in a court of law, negotiate, and build a defense in order to counter the charges that you may be facing. A criminal defense attorney has knowledge of the laws that govern your case and can use this knowledge to your advantage.
 

4. What are the likely dispositions of a criminal process?

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Possible dispositions include dismissal, entering a plea bargain or other resolution, being acquitted of the charges when the case goes to trial, or conviction.
 

5. What are the steps that are followed for the Criminal Justice System in Washington State?

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It usually includes arrest, reading of the charges (arraignment), preliminary and other hearings, trial, and sentencing. 

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6. Why is it beneficial to hire a criminal defense lawyer early?

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It is recommended that a person hires an attorney from the time that the case is launched, as it provides a greater chance to defend against the charges. It also may result in a higher chance of winning the case.
 

7. Can a person represent himself in a criminal case?

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Of course, you have a right to represent yourself but it is inadvisable to do so. Criminal cases can be complex and an experienced attorney is better placed when it comes to handling them.