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Any encounter with the police can be tense, and traffic stops are no exception. Whether the officer is stopping you on suspicion of a crime, committing a traffic violation, or without providing a reason at all, you retain certain rights when the police pull you over. It is important to understand these rights—and your…

When you are charged with a felony offense in Washington, the court will assign certain penalties based on several factors, such as the severity of the charge, your criminal history, and the circumstances surrounding your arrest. Common penalties in felony cases include prison time, fines, and community supervision. In some cases, however, you may…

When you are charged -with a crime in Washington, the state will assign penalties based on the category that the offense falls under. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your arrest, you could face charges for a felony, misdemeanor, or gross misdemeanor—all of which can result in serious penalties and future implications. If you are…

A criminal conviction can have severe impacts on a person’s life, even after release from prison. A history of criminal offenses can make it more difficult to find housing, employment, volunteer work, or even insurance policies—but a recent law in Washington state may help remove these barriers. The New Hope Act, designed to help…

After an arrest, you will need to enter a series of steps between booking and conviction. One of these processes is known as arraignment, or a hearing where a judge will read the charges against you and ask you to enter a plea. Prior to the arraignment, your Washington criminal defense attorney will explain…

If you receive a criminal conviction, you may face penalties such as jail time, fines, community service, and mandatory rehabilitation programs. In some cases, the court may assign you to parole or probation, usually in lieu of imprisonment. Parole and probation may sound similar, but they refer to two different processes—especially in Washington state….