Vehicular homicide is a serious crime, and Washington has harsh punishments. The act is a class A felony, and according to RCW 9A.20.021, the maximum prison time is life. It is difficult to describe the potential penalties you face after a vehicular homicide. The...
Criminal Defense
Criminal Defense
Can your online behavior result in criminal charges?
Many people use the internet as a venue for free speech and personal expression, but taking things too far can complicate legal matters. If you, a family member or a friend decide to use your social media accounts to vent about your case or confront alleged victims,...
Can the wrong person be charged with domestic violence?
The state of Washington defines domestic violence as any crime occurring against parents or grandparents, siblings, spouses, adults who live or have children together, or romantically involved people. According to the law, police officers must make an arrest when...
How to avoid ruining that first date with a DUI
When you go on a first date, you want to make a good impression. Getting arrested for drinking and driving can quickly ruin your first date and almost instantly prevent you from getting a second. According to the Washington State Department of Licensing, you could...
Can one spouse drop charges against the other spouse?
Let's say there is a 911 call. The police get to the house and there is a husband and wife who have been arguing. The wife accuses the husband of committing an act of domestic violence against her. Can that wife later decide that she wants to drop the charges against...
Penalties for Washington drug crimes
Possession of a controlled substance can result in significant fines and jail time in Washington. The specific penalties vary depending on the amount of the substance in question, prior criminal history and other factors. Familiarize yourself with possible legal...
The penalties for vehicular manslaughter in Washington
According to FindLaw, when a person kills someone, whether intentionally or unintentionally, the state of Washington declares it a homicide. Depending on the circumstances surrounding and leading up to the killing, the state may further classify a killing as murder or...
What is the zero tolerance law?
It is no surprise that drinking often accompanies celebrations in Washington State. When you are underage, you may think little of the issue of drinking. You want to go out, have a good time and worry little about anything else. What happens if the police catch you...
Guilty pleas bring tax zapper software users lesser sentences
Two owners of a popular Washington restaurant chain entered guilty pleas over an alleged tax evasion scheme that involved using "zapper" software. As reported by U.S. News & World Report, the accused couple pleaded guilty to a charge of conspiracy to defraud the...
License reinstatement following vehicular homicide conviction
Revocation of your driver's license is typically part of the penalty for a conviction on charges of vehicular homicide related to DUI. However, this does not necessarily mean that you lose your license forever and can never drive again. Eventually, it may be possible...