Criminal Defense
What Are the Penalties for Shoplifting in Washington?
Shoplifting might sound like a minor crime – slipping something into your pocket and walking away. However, under state law, shoplifting charges are a misdemeanor or even a felony, meaning not only might you have to pay fines and perform community service if convicted, but you may also have to serve jail time. The severity…
Read MoreHow Does Criminal Forfeiture Work?
The federal government and the State of Washington both have criminal forfeiture laws. The essence of these laws is that if you commit certain crimes, the government may be able to seize some of your property – if there’s reason to believe that property was used in connection with any criminal activity. For example, if…
Read MoreWhat Is A Criminal Defense Attorney & What Do They Do?
There are three primary types of criminal offenses; felonies, misdemeanors, and infractions. Criminal offense classifications are separated from each other by the seriousness of the offense and the punishment someone convicted can receive. In the U.S., every citizen charged with a criminal offense has the right to representation. But what does a criminal defense attorney do?…
Read MoreWhat Is the Role of the Federal Government in Criminal Law?
Crime has long been considered the concern of state government. States are authorized to protect their citizens from criminal activity by prosecuting criminals. States are also authorized to determine what constitutes a crime statutorily (through the legislature) and through common law. The federal government, on the other hand, has limited jurisdiction and must link any…
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