Spanaway Felony Defense Lawyer

Trusted Felony Defense Attorney Representing Clients in Spanaway, Washington

An accusation of a felony crime carries heavy weight in court. Judges take these cases seriously, and prosecutors may pursue a conviction more aggressively depending on the offense. If you or somebody you care about stands accused of a criminal offense with the possibility of a long prison sentence or other strict penalties, get in contact with a Spanaway, Washington felony defense attorney.

At The Law Office of Michael Austin Stewart Criminal Defense Lawyer, we have over 30 years of experience in criminal law, giving us a rich perspective in how to approach felony cases. When you work with us, you will receive aggressive representation geared toward protecting your future.

When Is DUI Considered a Felony in Washington?

Most DUI charges in Washington are misdemeanors, but the charge can become a felony under certain circumstances. Under Washington law, a DUI can be charged as a felony if the driver has four or more prior DUI offenses within the past 10 years, or a previous conviction for vehicular assault or vehicular homicide while under the influence.

The courtroom process for a felony DUI can move quickly once charges are filed. A prior offense does not always appear clearly on a driving record, so a careful review of court history is often an important early step in building a defense.

A felony DUI conviction carries much harsher penalties than a misdemeanor, including significant prison time, higher fines, and a permanent mark on a person's criminal record. A conviction can also affect a person's job, housing options, and driving privileges for years to come.

Representing People Accused of Rape in Spanaway, WA

A rape charge in Washington is treated as one of the most serious offenses a person can face. Depending on the circumstances, a person can be charged with rape in the first, second, or third degree, with first-degree rape considered the most severe. These charges often carry lengthy prison sentences, mandatory sex offender registration, and lasting damage to a person's reputation and relationships.

Anyone accused of rape deserves a thorough and careful defense, since the consequences of a conviction can follow a person for the rest of their life. Our attorney works to examine the evidence, question witness accounts, interview relevant parties, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case. Every accusation deserves a full review before any conclusions are drawn, and The Law Office of Michael Austin Stewart Criminal Defense Lawyer approaches each case with that principle in mind. Building a strong defense often means looking closely at the timeline of events, communications between the parties, and any physical evidence collected during the investigation.

Building a Legal Defense for a Violent Felony Charge

Every violent crime case is different, and an effective defense strategy depends on the specific facts involved. Whether you have been accused of assault, a crime of homicide, or another offense, our firm takes time to review police reports, medical records, and other evidence before deciding on the best path forward. Some common defense strategies used in violent felony cases include:

• Challenging the reliability of witness identification or testimony
• Examining whether law enforcement followed proper procedure during the investigation or arrest
• Presenting evidence of an alibi or mistaken identity
• Raising self-defense or defense of others when appropriate
• Questioning the handling and testing of physical or forensic evidence

No single defense strategy works for every case. The Law Office of Michael Austin Stewart Criminal Defense Lawyer will build a defense tailored to the specific facts, working to protect your rights at every stage of the process and give you the strongest possible chance at a favorable outcome.

Contact a Spanaway, WA Felony Defense Attorney

Facing a felony charge can feel overwhelming, especially when so much is at stake for your freedom and your future. An early conversation with a defense attorney can help you understand the charges against you and the options available for building a defense. Contact our Spanaway, Washington felony defense lawyer or call 253-442-7544 to schedule a free consultation.