Seattle False Statement to Public Servant Defense Lawyer

Charged with making a false statement?

When a police officer or other law enforcement agent questions a witness or suspect, he or she expects that the information given will be true. If you are suspected of giving entirely or even partially false information to a public servant, you could be charged with a gross misdemeanor. According to the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), a person who gives a false or misleading statement knowingly to a public servant could be guilty of a criminal offense. This law refers specifically to “material statements,” which are generally defined as oral or written statements that could be reasonably likely to be relied upon by a public servant in his or her duties.

If you are convicted of a gross misdemeanor, you could face the following consequences:

• Up to 365 days in jail
• Up to $5,000 in fines

These punishments represent the maximum for a gross misdemeanor charge. If you have been charged with another crime combined with making a false statement to a public servant, you could face additional penalties for those offenses.

Why choose an attorney?

A Seattle false statement attorney will be able to provide you with the advice and representation that you need if you have been charged with this type of offense. Even if you are innocent of any charges, it is still very important that you speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after you learn that you are facing these charges. Many people make the mistake of believing that they can “explain” the mistake to police or law enforcement agents. It is never more important to speak with a lawyer than when you did not commit the crime that you have been charged with.

Your Seattle criminal defense attorney will be able to build a solid defense that is targeted at providing you with the best possible chance at a positive outcome in your unique case.

Contact a Seattle False Statement Defense Attorney today to discuss your legal issue.