Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Federal Way, WA

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Federal Way, Washington?

  Call the Federal Way Police Department at (253) 835-2121 to report non-life-threatening incidents and concerns.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Federal Way, Washington?

  You can request a copy of a police report in several ways. In-person by going to the Federal Way Police Department at 33325 8th Ave. S. Federal Way, WA 98003. By phone by calling 253.835.6700. By fax at 253.835.6898. And, by mail to the address below.

  Civilian Operations Manager Attn: Public Records Request 33325 8th Ave. S. Federal Way, WA 98003

  You can also make an online request at the Police Records Request Center: https://federalwaywa.govqa.us/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(rtuyyiwf1vo2tuviuw1svjvl))/FindAnswers.aspx?sSessionID=

• Can the Federal Way police search you without a warrant?

  Yes, there are circumstances when the police can search you and your property without a warrant. If you are being arrested or detained, the Federal Way police can frisk you and search your surroundings for evidence. They can also search without a warrant during “exigent” situations when evidence may be destroyed before the warrant becomes available.

• What are the penalties for violating a protection order in Federal Way, WA?

  Protection order violation is considered a gross misdemeanor in Federal Way. Penalties for this include up to one year of jail time, up to $5,000 in fines, probation, revocation of the right to own firearms, and travel restrictions. Most protection orders are related to domestic violence. If this is the case, penalties will most probably also include mandatory treatment for domestic violence.

• What is the MiChance Dunlap-Gittens Youth Rights Ordinance that is being implemented in Federal Way, WA?

  The MiChance Dunlap-Gittens Youth Rights Ordinance is aimed at protecting the constitutional rights of youths in Federal Way during police searches and interrogations. Under this ordinance, law enforcers must connect the minor with a public defender before asking them to waive their rights to an attorney and to remain silent, and before asking the minor to consent to a search. This ordinance is also based on research showing that youths do not fully understand their Miranda rights.

• Are you required to give a statement to the Federal Way police once you get arrested?

  No, your right to remain silent applies even after you have already been taken into custody. It is advised that you consult with a Federal Way criminal defense attorney before talking to the police. Remember that in criminal matters, the police is allowed to lie to you to draw out evidence or an admission of guilt.

• Will your out-of-state DUI conviction affect your DUI case in Federal Way?

  If you've already had previous DUI convictions, yes. Senate Bill 5037 turns your fourth DUI conviction within a period of 10 years into a felony conviction. Under this bill, your out-of-state DUI (or DUI equivalent) convictions are counted. Note that this bill includes not just alcohol-related DUIs in Federal Way. DUIs involving prescription and nonprescription drugs, and marijuana are also considered in the total count.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.