Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Yakima

FAQs

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

  509-575-6200 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Yakima.

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

  To obtain records from the Yakima County Sheriff's Office, please make use of their online public records portal. If you require assistance or have any inquiries regarding the process of requesting public records, you may get in touch with them through the contact details below:

  McKenzie Woodkey

  Public Records Officer at the Yakima County Sheriff's Office 1822 S 1st StYakima, WA 98903

  Email: mckenzie.woodkey@co.yakima.wa.us Phone: (509)574-2625 Fax: (509)574-2621

  Public Records Portal: https://yakimacountywa.mycusthelp.com/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(ueirhbuo0qlpw14cusepqiaj))/supporthome.aspx

• What are the punishments for misdemeanors in Yakima?

  Misdemeanors, though less severe than felonies, can still have significant penalties such as up to 90 days in jail, fines of up to $1,000, community service, and mandatory counseling or classes in Yakima. They also lead to permanent criminal records that can affect employment, housing, and other areas of life. Examples of misdemeanors include trespassing, shoplifting, and disorderly conduct.

• What is the criminal process in Yakima?

  Yakima's criminal justice system follows state rules and protocols to safeguard your legal rights as you go through the trial process. The process commences with police contact, arrest, jail booking, arraignment, pretrial hearings, motion hearings, and finally, the trial. Each step follows a prescribed set of regulations to ensure a fair and impartial trial, making sure that your rights are protected at all times.

• What are some common juvenile crimes in Yakima?

  Some common juvenile crimes in Yakima include firearm offenses, drug possession, driving without a license, illegal purchases (such as alcohol or tobacco), sex crimes, and assault. It is important for young people to understand the consequences of engaging in criminal activities and to seek guidance from trusted adults in making responsible decisions.

• Can minors hire a lawyer in Yakima?

  No. Legal engagements with attorneys are not permissible for anyone under the age of 18 in Yakima. In these situations, a parent or legal guardian is required to secure legal representation on the child's behalf. Should they neglect to do so, the court will choose a public defender.

• Can you expunge your criminal convictions in Yakima?

  No, Washington state laws prohibit the removal of any record of conviction, regardless of the type of crime committed. Nevertheless, you have the option to file a motion to vacate your criminal conviction in Yakima, which can result in the removal of your conviction from state and federal background checks.

• 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.