Practice Areas
Common Criminal Defense Matters in Washington
Criminal defense law in Washington operates through a comprehensive court system including superior courts in each of the state's 39 counties, municipal courts, and district courts. The Washington State Bar Association maintains strict licensing requirements for criminal defense attorneys, ensuring qualified representation across the state. Washington's criminal justice system follows unique sentencing guidelines under the Sentencing Reform Act, which calculates sentences based on offense severity and criminal history scores. The state's emphasis on restorative justice and alternative sentencing options creates opportunities for experienced defense counsel to pursue favorable outcomes.
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Drug possession and trafficking
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Federal criminal charges
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Domestic violence defense
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Criminal Defense Attorneys by City in Washington
Select your city for local attorney matching and city-specific legal information.
Why It Matters
Why Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney in Washington?
Criminal defense cases in Washington require attorneys licensed by the Washington State Bar who understand the state's specific sentencing guidelines, local court procedures, and prosecutor practices. Washington's unique legal framework, including specific drug court programs and mental health courts, demands local expertise that out-of-state attorneys cannot provide. Local Washington attorneys maintain established relationships with prosecutors and judges that can prove invaluable during plea negotiations and sentencing.
Local Courts
Criminal defense cases in Washington are primarily handled by superior courts in each county for felonies, while district and municipal courts handle misdemeanor offenses. Federal criminal cases are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington (Seattle) or Eastern District of Washington (Spokane).
Washington Law
Washington Criminal Defense Laws & Deadlines
Washington criminal defense cases are governed by the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Title 9 and 9A, with most felony cases having a three-year statute of limitations and gross misdemeanors having a two-year limit. The state's Sentencing Reform Act (RCW 9.94A) provides structured sentencing guidelines based on offense level and offender score calculations. Washington also maintains specific statutes for drug offenses, DUI cases, and domestic violence charges that require specialized knowledge of state-specific penalties and alternatives.
Key Facts
What to Know About Criminal Defense in Washington
Cost to You
Free to submit your case
When to Act
Immediately after arrest or charges filed
Attorney Cost
Hourly rates, retainers, or flat fees vary by attorney.
Our Network
Criminal Defense attorneys as they join
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Washington's specific sentencing guidelines for criminal cases?
Washington uses the Sentencing Reform Act which calculates sentences based on an offense level (1-16) and offender score (0-9+), creating a grid system for determining standard sentence ranges. This structured approach provides predictability but requires experienced counsel to navigate exceptions and alternatives effectively.
How long do I have to appeal a criminal conviction in Washington?
In Washington, defendants have 30 days from the entry of judgment to file a notice of appeal for criminal cases. The Washington Court of Appeals handles most criminal appeals, with some cases potentially reaching the Washington State Supreme Court.
How do I find a qualified criminal defense attorney in Washington?
The Washington State Bar Association maintains a lawyer referral service and directory of licensed attorneys specializing in criminal defense. Look for attorneys with experience in Washington's specific court system and familiarity with local prosecutors and judges in your jurisdiction.
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