Many people consider a misdemeanor offense to be extremely minor—something for which they might receive a “slap on the wrist.” However, this is not typically the case. A misdemeanor offense can significantly disrupt your life and result in serious penalties and consequences.

In the state of Washington, misdemeanor offenses are either “simple” misdemeanors or “gross” misdemeanors, with simple misdemeanors being the less serious.

Even though a simple misdemeanor is less serious than a gross misdemeanor, the penalties could still include up to 90 days in jail, and fines as high as $1,000.

A gross misdemeanor could bring a penalty of up to one year in jail, and fines as high as $5,000.

As you might imagine, being jailed for even 90 days could significantly affect your life, including your job, your finances, and your family.

To avoid these penalties, you have to avoid a conviction for the offense for which you are being charged. Avoiding a conviction virtually always requires hiring a highly experienced Seattle criminal defense attorney. Your attorney will comprehensively investigate the facts of your case, review any evidence against you, and determine where law enforcement may have made a mistake during your arrest.

Simple and Gross Misdemeanors in Seattle

Below are some examples of simple and gross misdemeanors in the state of Washington:

Simple Misdemeanors:

• Possession of small amounts of marijuana
• Petty theft (i.e., shoplifting)
• Certain traffic offenses
• Disorderly conduct
• Indecent exposure
• Prostitution
• Patronizing a prostitute
• Stealing a shopping cart
• Failure to obey an order from a police officer to disperse
• Unlawful dumping
• Zoning violations

Gross Misdemeanors:

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI, first offense)
• More significant property theft (up to a value of $750)
• Stalking (although some stalking offenses are felony offenses)
• Theft of television subscription services (illegally hooking up to cable)
• Violating a protective order
• Simple assault

Collateral Consequences of a Misdemeanor Conviction in Seattle

You may think that once your fines are paid and you have completed your sentence of jail time, the matter is over. However, in many cases, this is not the reality. Having a simple or gross misdemeanor criminal offense on your record can potentially result in a number of negative results.

When you apply for a job, you are legally obligated to disclose any past criminal convictions—even misdemeanor convictions. The same is true when you are applying to rent a home or apartment. With a criminal conviction on your background check, you could lose your current job or professional license or be prohibited from getting a professional license at all. A criminal conviction could also keep you from getting into the college of your choice, getting a promotion at work, or getting a job you are otherwise well qualified for.

It is never a good idea to think that since you are “only” charged with a misdemeanor you will represent yourself. Since a misdemeanor conviction can result in immediate legal penalties as well as years of collateral consequences, your best course of action is to avoid a conviction when possible.

Speaking to an experienced Seattle criminal defense attorney can give you a better idea of what you are facing, as well as your chances of avoiding conviction. Mistakes you make early on can significantly impact your chances of an acquittal or lowered charges, so get your attorney on board early in the process.

Facing Misdemeanor Charges in Seattle? We can Help!

If you are facing misdemeanor charges in Seattle, it is important to take them seriously. Not taking them seriously could result in jail time, as well as harsh penalties. That is why you need an experienced and aggressive Seattle criminal defense attorney on your side.

Don’t take chances with your future; contact a Seattle criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The experienced lawyers at Lewis & Laws, PLLC, have successfully defended clients in Seattle, Bellevue, and Kirkland. Contact us today at 206.209.0608 or fill out our online contact form.