The Basics of Vacating or Expunging Misdemeanor Cases in Washington The Basics of Vacating or Expunging Misdemeanor Cases in Washington Washington law defines a misdemeanor as “An offense punishable by no more than 90 days in jail and $1,000.” A “gross misdemeanor” is punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a maximum fine of $5,000. For both types of misdemeanors, both a jail… Read More
Good Samaritan Laws The Constitution of the United States separates our country from many other nations on earth because it guarantees several types of freedom. Citizens are generally free to act at their own discretion, so long as they do not violate the rights of others. Citizens are also generally free not to act if they so choose,… Read More
Associative Criminal Liability in Washington The term, “guilt by association” is a colloquial expression generalizing the notion that if a person associates with criminals, then that person, himself, is criminally culpable. Although this is not a legal principle, it is roughly akin to legal doctrines upon which criminal statutes are based in each of the 50 states. To bring criminal… Read More
What to Do if You Are Stopped by Police Being stopped by the police can be a very disturbing and unwelcome experience. Often, a stop by police is conducted on a person who is altogether innocent, but who faces scrutiny by virtue of being in the wrong place at the wrong time or by fitting the description of an offender of a proximal crime.… Read More
Misdemeanors vs. Felonies The distinction between misdemeanors and felonies lies in the severity of the criminal offense. This distinction is made by legal authorities and serves as the basis for criminal charges, indictments, trials and sentencing. The many and varied levels in the severity of crimes committed requires corresponding guidelines for charging, convicting and punishing offenders. In criminal… Read More
When Can A Felony Be Vacated? Once convicted of a felony, it’s something that follows you around long after you’ve paid your fines, served your jail time, and completed probation or court-ordered counseling. It is an issue that comes up time and time again and can make it more difficult for you to move on with your life. A felony conviction… Read More
How do I reinstate my right to possess fire arms after a conviction? Simply being convicted of a crime is not grounds for taking away an individual’s right to possess a firearm, except in certain situations. Anyone committing a misdemeanor will be able to maintain those rights, but generally, those convicted of a felony or of domestic violence are forbidden from owning a gun. The Level of Crimes… Read More