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Washington Criminal Law Questions & Answers
2 Answers | Asked in Personal Injury, Criminal Law and DUI / DWI for Washington on
Q: Is there anyone that can help me to settle my claim for an accident caused by a drunk driver in Washington State?

I need to find an attorney that can help me in finishing my insurance injury claim. I have literally done 3/4 of the work (I believe) and I have obtained all of the documents needed to settle this case. These include my medical documents from my PCP and therapist notes and summaries for every... View More

Steve Dashiak
Steve Dashiak
answered on Feb 3, 2023

I've had a number of cases where the prospective client thought they'd done almost all the work and just needed someone to land the plane. Every single one of them was put together in such a manner that I would have been better off just recreating the file from scratch. So, I would not be... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, DUI / DWI, Personal Injury and Car Accidents for Washington on
Q: Where can I get help with my ongoing 3rd party claim with the other drivers auto insurance company in Washington State??

3rd time DUI offender plowed into our front yard, our fence, and our car at a high rate of speed. His car finally stopped only about 10 feet from the room in which we were at that morning. Our car was deemed a total loss as this was the only thing that stopped the driver from plowing right into our... View More

Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
answered on Jan 30, 2023

A Washington attorney could advise best, but your question remains open for two weeks. I'm sorry for your ordeal. You're correct; this could be an overwhelming matter because of the number of elements it contains. You indicate seeking an attorney. Your best option is to reach out to... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Traffic Tickets for Washington on
Q: Does this go on my record for jobs etc? And also what should I do?

I was pulled over for destruction of public property. They said the parks will sometimes make a deal instead of pressing charges. What should I do? Also if I work out a deal do this goes on my record for jobs and such?

Cristine Beckwith
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Cristine Beckwith
answered on Jan 25, 2023

Sorry to hear. Destruction of property can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony (depending on the level of damage). This definitely could go on your criminal record. It would be a good idea to reach out to a criminal defense attorney to see if they can investigate further...and hopefully work out... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Constitutional Law for Washington on
Q: got notified that Im not legal to possess/own a firearm when I applied for the permit. I have never had a felony so why?

And how do I get this changed. I feel im being harrassed by the local sheriffs office after they had wrongly arrested me when my husband passed away. Long story, maybe I need to speak with someone about this to fill in all the ugly disgusting details. I live in Washington state. Please help

Cristine Beckwith
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Cristine Beckwith
answered on Jan 6, 2023

Sorry to hear. There are some misdemeanors with the Domestic Violence designation that can result in the loss of firearm rights.

I recommend that you contact a criminal defense attorney in your area to discuss your criminal history (if any) and to see if there is something there that...
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1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Domestic Violence and Civil Rights for Washington on
Q: Do I have to petition to get my gun rights back in Washington state if a DV misdemeanor charge was dismissed?

The case was dismissed via pre-trial diversion agreement. No prior record in any state before or since. No order of protection nor under any investigations. This happened two years ago and the case was dismissed in 2021

Cristine Beckwith
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Cristine Beckwith
answered on Jan 3, 2023

A pretrial diversion agreement typically does not involve any finding or conviction. Because your case remained in pretrial status and was ultimately dismissed you will not lose your right to possess firearms as a result of entering into the agreement. You may want to confirm that your case was... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Domestic Violence and Criminal Law for Washington on
Q: How can I revoke a domestic violance statement

I completely overreacted and was very upset due to my past relationships

Cristine Beckwith
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Cristine Beckwith
answered on Dec 22, 2022

Sorry to hear. This is a very delicate matter since doing so could expose you to criminal charges, if you were to admit to making a false police report. Definitely speak to a criminal defense attorney before attempting to recant a statement. This should not be the same attorney that is defending... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Washington on
Q: I'm getting charged with prowling 2nd degree and theft 3. Besides traffic violations this would be my first criminal

I found what looked to be an abandoned vehicle so I stopped to look into it see what I can find, I got in and chickened out immediately and cops showed up as soon as I closed the door on my way out and turns out the vehicle was stolen.

Patrick Owen Earl
Patrick Owen Earl
answered on Nov 14, 2022

I already gave you advise about getting an attorney. You need help to explain the circumstances and get the prosecutor to understand what happened. HOWEVER, your decision to enter into the vehicle was criminal. You should NOT have done that. Get an attorney

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Washington on
Q: If I was charged with a class c felony as a minor can I purchase a firearm at 18? Or 21?
Jason Powers
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answered on Nov 6, 2022

When you say charged, do you mean convicted? If you were convicted, then your right to possess a firearm is likely revoked. You would need to get your right bear arms reinstated. The good news is that you may get that right reinstated if you have been crime free for 5 years. You would need to... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law, Contracts, Criminal Law and Collections for Washington on
Q: I sold pieces of silver to a local jeweler. The check bounced. For two months he kept promising to make it good.

For two months he promised to make it good in a "few days". For the last month he has not returned my calls or texts. What are my options? Since he has done this recently to multiple people at what point does this become criminal? The transaction occurred in Sequim, Washington

Joel Gary Selik
Joel Gary Selik
answered on Apr 22, 2024

It is probably criminal now. Report it to the police (do not threaten to report it to the police as that might be a crime). Check your states laws on giving notice on bounced checks and your rights to recovery in small claims for damages in addition to the amount of the check.

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Employment Law, Civil Litigation and Civil Rights for Washington on
Q: I was assaulted for stealing 2 soda pops what can I do to get a attorney
James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Apr 3, 2024

I'm so sorry to hear that you were assaulted. That must have been a traumatic experience. Regardless of the circumstances, no one has the right to assault you.

In terms of getting legal assistance, here are some steps you can take:

1. Contact the police and file a report about...
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1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Civil Rights and Gov & Administrative Law for Washington on
Q: How much time do I have to file a Gross Miscarriage of Justice complaint

Thought that I was talking to a court appointed lawyer but was talking to the prosecutor

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Dec 5, 2023

It's important to consult with a lawyer who has experience in criminal law and civil rights. They can provide guidance on the appropriate procedures, deadlines, and the strength of your complaint based on the details of your case.

Given the seriousness of the situation, where...
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1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Washington on
Q: In Washington State what is the least amount of time for a harassment charge or threat to kill and have previous violent
Patrick Owen Earl
Patrick Owen Earl
answered on Nov 26, 2023

I'm sorry there isn't enough information for me or any attorney to give you direct answer. We would need to sit down and talk about all the needed information and background to see what range of time you are facing. It all depends on criminal history, what you are actually charged with... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Washington on
Q: Hi, a friend was driving a car that is licensed in my name and he got into a police chase that got called off a few mins

Hi, a friend was driving a car that is licensed in my name and he got into a police chase that got called off a few mins later so he ended up getting away etc ... He left the car out of town. Few days later I had a letter from police saying car was in the impound and the drivers section on the form... View More

Cristine Beckwith
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Cristine Beckwith
answered on Nov 3, 2023

Sorry to hear. A lawyer can carefully tell your side of the story.

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Washington on
Q: If I broke a windshield and headlights out of a persons car and they agreed with an officer present not to press charges

If I replaced them which I did but it got forwarded to prosecutors anyway and I’m going to court for malicious mischief 3 being I already paid to replace the damage how can I go about getting the charge dropped

Cristine Beckwith
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Cristine Beckwith
answered on Oct 12, 2023

Sorry to hear. Charges can and often do move forward against the wishes of the alleged victim. Only the State can decide to "press charges."

It would be a good idea to call around for legal representation in your area. Most of us offer a free phone consultation. Best of luck in your search.

1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody, Child Support, Criminal Law and Family Law for Washington on
Q: My friend is looking for an attorney regarding child custody (he has a 5 year old daughter) from the mother.

She's into prostitution and the judge today granted him more custody and even called the mother crazy in the courtroom. She's off her rocker and into all sorts of stuff and is using the 5 year old as a weapon against my friend.

We need to know the type of lawyer in Klickitat... View More

Cristine Beckwith
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Cristine Beckwith
answered on Sep 15, 2023

Sorry to hear. You would want to look for a family law attorney.

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Washington on
Q: My son is on 72 hour hold for aggrevated assault and harassment/threat. Should I consider a lawyer before the 72 hours?
Cristine Beckwith
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Cristine Beckwith
answered on Sep 10, 2023

Sorry to hear. It is a good idea for a person facing criminal accusations to have representation ASAP. Unrepresented people often have their rights trampled on and make statements that are harmful to their defense.

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Health Care Law and Business Law for Washington on
Q: I'm looking to hire an attorney to get legal advice, but I have trouble figuring out which specialty I need.

I would like to start a business somewhat related to healthcare. I don't have any type of medical license, and I want to make sure that I won't be accused of practicing medicine without a license. I'm looking for an attorney with whom to share my plan in detail, and who could help me... View More

Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
answered on Aug 28, 2023

A Washington attorney could advise best, but your question remains open for two weeks. Your points are valid. A health care attorney could be a starting point. A business formation attorney might also be able to offer guidance as to options available in forming a business. Good luck

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Immigration Law for Washington on
Q: As a nonimmigrant alien in Washington state, am I allowed to use a gun in self defense? I hav a concealed pistol license

I possess a hunting license (federal law) and an Alien Firearms License ( state law) and also a concealed pistol license.

John Michael Frick
John Michael Frick
answered on Aug 21, 2023

Your immigration status does not impact your right to use a gun in self defense.

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for Washington on
Q: In Washington and the neighbor called the cops on mother and daughter fighting and the daughter left before cop came.

Mother and daughter were both attack each other.What would happen to the daughter for leaveing

Todd B. Kotler
Todd B. Kotler
answered on Jul 26, 2023

You asked "What would happen to the daughter for leaving"? The answer is nothing for leaving. For the fight? perhaps a domestic violence charge, depending on whether the police find mother credible.

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Washington on
Q: Will I be charged with a misdemeanor

Purchase a car in November 27th 2022 and have yet to register in my name since it is over the time limit of 45 days and Washington State to register a vehicle will i be charged with a misdemeanor?

Jason Powers
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answered on Jul 6, 2023

If you are stopped by law enforcement, they could cite you with a violation of RCW 46.12.650. This is a simple misdemeanor.

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