Were you arrested for a property-related crime? Charges like burglary, theft, arson, and vandalism all fall under Washington State’s property crime laws. In turn, being convicted of a crime like this can result in serious consequences that affect your present and future.
While it can be scary to face criminal allegations, you don’t have to go through the justice system all by yourself. Instead, let a Seattle criminal defense lawyer help you understand what to do and how to proceed with your case.
At NextLaw, our defense attorneys are exclusively former prosecutors who have overseen more than 100 jury trials. You can count on our Seattle property crimes lawyers to skillfully pursue justice on your behalf.
Theft Offenses in Seattle
Theft is a very common type of property crime in Washington State. Under RCW 9A.56.020, a person commits theft when they wrongfully obtain or exert unauthorized control over another’s property or services with the intent to deprive them of it.
There are several classifications of theft based on the value of the property or the services involved:.
Theft in the First Degree (RCW 9A.56.030)
RCW 9A.56.030 is a Class B felony. It involves property or services valued over $5,000 or the theft of certain types of property, such as a firearm or a motor vehicle. A conviction may result in up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.
Theft in the Second Degree (RCW 9A.56.040)
RCW 9A.56.040 is a Class C felony. It covers property or services valued between $750 and $5,000. Penalties may include up to five years in prison and a fine of $10,000.
Theft in the Third Degree (RCW 9A.56.050)
RCW 9A.56.050 is a gross misdemeanor involving property or services valued at less than $750. Penalties can include up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. Specialized theft offenses include shoplifting, theft of rental property, theft of utilities, and organized retail theft.
For a free legal consultation with a property crimes lawyer serving Seattle, call (253) 238-2558
Burglary and Criminal Trespass
Burglary involves unlawfully entering a building with the intent to commit a crime inside of said building. Washington distinguishes between different degrees of burglary:
Burglary in the First Degree (RCW 9A.52.020)
This is a Class A felony, which is the highest level you can be charged with in Washington State. It involves entering or remaining in a building unlawfully with the intent to commit a crime and either being armed with a deadly weapon or assaulting someone in the process.
RCW 9A.52.020 is punishable by up to life in prison and a fine of $50,000.
Burglary in the Second Degree (RCW 9A.52.030)
This is a Class B felony. It involves unlawful entry into a building rather than a dwelling with the intent to commit a crime. RCW 9A.52.030 carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison.
Residential Burglary (RCW 9A.52.025)
This is treated more severely than second-degree burglary, and it is a Class B felony. RCW 9A.52.025 involves entering or remaining unlawfully in a dwelling other than a vehicle. Criminal Trespass (RCW 9A.52.070 and RCW 9A.52.080) occurs when a person knowingly enters or remains unlawfully in or upon the premises.
First-degree criminal trespass involves entering a building, and it’s a gross misdemeanor. Second-degree trespass involves remaining unlawfully on land, which is a misdemeanor.
Seattle Property Crimes Lawyer Near Me
Call: (253) 238-2558Other Types of Charges a Property Crimes Attorney in Seattle Can Help You With
In addition to common theft and burglary charges, property crimes can encompass a wide range of offenses. A Seattle property crimes attorney can provide you with legal support for situations that involve damage to or unlawful interference with property.
Here’s what these might include:
- Arson
- Reckless burning
- Malicious mischief
- Vandalism
- Possession of stolen property
- Vehicle prowling
- Motor vehicle theft
- Identity theft
- Fraudulent property offenses
- Graffiti
- Tagging
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Restitution and Civil Liability For Property Crime Cases in Seattle
Many property crimes carry an obligation for the defendant who holds liability for the incident to pay restitution to the victim. Restitution includes compensating the victim for either stolen or damaged property, lost income, and other out-of-pocket expenses directly related to the offense.
Restitution is separate from criminal fines, and it can be enforced through wage garnishment or liens. In addition to criminal penalties, property crime offenders might even face civil lawsuits for damages.
Property owners, businesses, and insurance companies alike can usually pursue compensation for losses through Washington’s civil court system.
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Enhancements and Aggravating Factors
Washington’s sentencing guidelines allow for increased penalties under certain circumstances. Crimes involving these factors can result in enhanced sentencing:
- Committed as part of a larger criminal enterprise
- Imposed upon vulnerable victims
- Carried out using weapons
- Executed by people with extensive criminal histories
For example, property crimes committed against elderly victims or those involving hate crime motivations may result in sentence aggravation. Repeat property offenders might also face persistent offender sentencing enhancements.
Speak With Our Property Crimes Lawyers in Seattle Today
If you’re or someone you know is facing property crime charges, you might be worried about what this means for your future. There’s only one thing you need to remember to do: Call Dan Next. Our lawyers have over 100 years of combined experience, and we know what it takes to defend you against these charges.
When you give us a call, you’ll have the opportunity to speak with our Seattle property crimes attorneys. We are ready and willing to advocate on your behalf. Call NextLaw today to kickstart your defense.
Call or text (253) 238-2558 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form