If you are facing a violent crime charge, your freedom is at stake. Our Federal Way criminal defense lawyers can take on your case and help fight the charge.
With over 100 years combined experience, the attorneys at NextLaw have represented thousands of clients and handled over 150 combined jury trials. If you have been charged with a violent crime, Federal Way violent crimes lawyers from our team can protect your rights and help build a strong defense.
How Our Federal Way Violent Crimes Attorneys Can Help
Once a violent crime charge is filed, the prosecution will begin building a case against you immediately. Our Federal Way violent crimes attorneys can:
- Protect your rights: We can help ensure law enforcement does not violate your rights at any stage of the legal process.
- Conduct an independent investigation: We can review police reports, interview witnesses, and consult experts to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiate with prosecutors: In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.
- Build a strong trial defense: If your case goes to trial, we can present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue your side before a judge or jury.
For a free legal consultation with a violent crimes lawyer serving Federal Way, call (253) 238-2558
Penalties for Violent Crimes in Washington
Violent crime convictions in Washington can carry severe, long-lasting consequences. Depending on the specific charge and circumstances, penalties may include:
- Several years in prison
- Tens of thousands of dollars in fines
- Community custody (similar to parole)
- Mandatory treatment or counseling
- Loss of firearm rights
- A permanent felony record
In addition to court-imposed penalties, a conviction can affect your ability to secure employment, housing, professional licenses, and educational opportunities. Our violent crimes attorneys in Federal Way can work to minimize the consequences of your charges.
Federal Way Violent Crimes Lawyer Near Me
Call: (253) 238-2558Possible Defenses to Violent Crime Charges
Every violent crime case is unique, and the best defense for yours will depend on case-specific factors. That said, some of the most common defenses in these cases include:
- Self-defense: If you reasonably believed you were in imminent danger of being harmed, and you used proportionate force to protect yourself or another person, you may have a valid legal defense.
- Lack of intent: Most violent crimes require proof that you acted intentionally. If the evidence does not clearly establish your intent, the state may fail to meet its burden of proof.
- Mistaken identity: Eyewitness identifications can be unreliable, especially in stressful situations, and mistaken identity can lead to wrongful accusations.
- False or exaggerated allegations: In some cases, accusations arise out of personal conflicts, custody disputes, or retaliation, and the evidence may show that the claims are not credible.
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt, and weak, inconsistent, or incomplete evidence may not meet that high standard.
- Rights violations during the investigation: If law enforcement conducted an unlawful search, coerced a statement, or failed to follow proper procedures, key evidence may be suppressed, which can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case.
Our attorneys can evaluate your case and help develop a robust defense.
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Types of Violent Crimes in Washington
Under Washington law, violent crimes generally involve the use or threat of force against another person. These offenses are treated seriously and often classified as felonies. Common types of violent crimes include:
- Assault
- Robbery
- Domestic violence offenses
- Homicide
- Kidnapping
- Manslaughter
Each of these crimes carries its own legal definition and penalties.
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Can My Charges Get Dismissed?
In some violent crime cases, charges may be dismissed if the evidence is insufficient or if procedural problems undermine the prosecution’s case. Dismissal can occur at various stages of a case, including before trial, if the defense successfully challenges the legality of the evidence or demonstrates that the prosecution cannot prove essential elements of the offense.
For example, evidence obtained through an unlawful search or statements taken in violation of constitutional rights may be suppressed. Additionally, charges may be dismissed if witness credibility issues, lack of corroborating evidence, or other weaknesses prevent the state from meeting its burden of proof.
While a dismissal is not always possible, our attorneys can identify opportunities to challenge the prosecution’s case and pursue the best possible outcome for yours.
What to Do If You Are Accused of a Violent Crime
If you are under investigation or have been arrested for a violent offense in Federal Way, what you do next matters. It’s important to:
- Avoid discussing the allegations with anyone except your attorneys.
- Refrain from posting about the situation on social media.
- Comply with any court orders, including no-contact orders.
- Avoid contacting alleged victims or witnesses.
- Hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
Consult Our Federal Way Violent Crimes Attorneys
The team at Next Law has over 100 years of combined legal experience, and our criminal defense attorneys are all former prosecutors. If you are facing charges, our Federal Way violent crimes attorneys can review your case, improve your defense, and, if necessary, fight for you in court.
Call Dan Next to schedule a free consultation and get help with your defense.
Call or text (253) 238-2558 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form