Frequent Questions About Criminal Charges In Washington
Few legal troubles are more stressful than criminal charges. Your very freedom may be at stake.
Our criminal defense lawyers at Cogdill Nichols Rein Wartelle Andrews are committed to protecting your rights and interests during this critical time. We have decades of experience fighting for people facing criminal charges, and we handle both state and federal charges.
Below are answers to common questions we hear about criminal charges.
What kind of a sentence will I face for a drug offense?
Drug crimes vary widely depending on the amount and type of substance involved and the nature of the drug offense. A simple possession charge at the state level will carry a much lighter sentence than federal drug trafficking charges. Federal drug offenses may also carry a mandatory minimum prison sentence. Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for a diversion program instead of harsh penalties like jail time. Our attorneys can walk you through the potential sentence for your charges.
How can I challenge a DUI/DWI?
People often assume that if they failed a breath test or field sobriety test and got arrested for DUI, they’re out of luck. Fortunately, that’s rarely the case. You may still have strong grounds for challenging the charges. Examples include:
- Challenging the validity of the traffic stop
- Challenging the accuracy of the breath or field sobriety test
- Identifying any violations of your rights
- Challenging the admissibility of key evidence
- Negotiating a favorable plea deal
Our defense lawyers can review your case and pinpoint the strongest grounds for fighting the charges.
Is it worth it to fight a speeding ticket?
In some cases, yes. It depends on the type of ticket, your driving record and the circumstances involved. If you get too many speeding tickets within a year, for example, you could face suspension of your driver’s license. In that case, it’s absolutely worth it to challenge the ticket.
The important thing to know is that if you simply pay the ticket, you will miss out on your opportunity to challenge it. Talk to us before paying the ticket to find out whether it’s worth challenging.
How serious is a domestic violence charge?
Depending on the offense, you could be facing anywhere from probation up to life in prison for a class A felony. Even misdemeanor domestic violence convictions come with serious consequences such as a tarnished criminal record and a federal lifetime bar on your ability to own or carry a firearm.
What are some common white collar crimes?
White collar crimes include nonviolent financial offenses such as:
- Embezzlement
- Money laundering
- Forgery
- Identity theft
- Credit card fraud
- Mail and wire fraud
Many of these charges are felonies that come with severe penalties and jail time.
What are possible consequences of a sex offense?
In addition to a potentially lengthy prison sentence, a permanent conviction on your criminal record, steep fines and restitution, you could also face mandatory registration as a sex offender. This registration can drastically impact your life long after you’ve carried out your sentence. Depending on the nature of the offense, sex offender registration could be required for 10 years, 15 years or even for life.
Can an arrest affect my military service?
Absolutely. If you’re an active service member facing criminal charges, it’s critical to involve a defense lawyer who understands this impact. You may be facing a military court-martial in addition to criminal proceedings. Our lawyers have extensive experience in this area. We can advise you of the possible impact of the charges on your military service and defend you in both types of proceedings.
Have More Questions? We Have Answers.
Talk to our lawyers about your questions regarding criminal charges and find out how we can help. Call our office in Everett at 425-247-3984 or send us an email to get set up with an initial consultation.