Aggressive Defense Representation
Violent Crimes Defense Lawyer in Burien, Washington
Professional Violent Crimes Defense
Violent crime charges in Washington carry severe potential penalties that can profoundly impact your future, employment prospects, and personal relationships. At Law Offices of Greene and Lloyd, we understand the seriousness of these allegations and provide vigorous defense strategies tailored to your specific circumstances. Our legal team has extensive experience handling assault, battery, robbery, and other violent offense cases throughout Burien and King County. We work diligently to investigate the facts, challenge evidence, and protect your constitutional rights at every stage of the criminal process.
Why Violent Crimes Defense Is Essential
Violent crime convictions carry mandatory minimum sentences, substantial prison time, and lifelong collateral consequences that affect employment, housing, and professional licensing. Without proper legal representation, you face an uphill battle against experienced prosecutors with substantial resources. Our defense strategy protects your rights during investigation and interrogation, challenges illegal searches, and examines whether evidence was properly obtained. Early intervention and strategic planning can mean the difference between conviction and dismissal, or between years in prison and probation or reduced charges.
Law Offices of Greene and Lloyd Experience with Violent Crimes Cases
Understanding Violent Crimes Charges and Defense Options
Violent crimes encompass various offenses ranging from assault and battery to robbery, aggravated assault, and weapons-related charges. Washington law distinguishes between different levels of violence based on injury severity, weapon use, and defendant intent. Understanding the specific charge against you is fundamental to developing an effective defense strategy. Factors like self-defense claims, mistaken identity, consent, duress, and defense of others may apply depending on the circumstances. We thoroughly review the elements the prosecution must prove and identify potential defenses unique to your situation.
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Key Terms in Violent Crimes Defense
Assault
Assault is an intentional act that places someone in reasonable apprehension of immediate bodily harm, or the intentional application of unwanted force. In Washington, assault charges range from misdemeanor simple assault to felony assault in the first degree, with severity depending on injury level and circumstances. Prosecution must prove the defendant acted intentionally and knew their conduct would cause harm or apprehension. Self-defense is a primary defense when the accused reasonably believed force was necessary to prevent injury.
Aggravating Circumstances
Aggravating circumstances elevate charges and sentencing exposure in violent crime cases. These include using a weapon, causing serious injury, targeting vulnerable victims like elderly or disabled persons, or committing violence while in a position of authority. Washington sentencing guidelines allow judges to impose sentences above the standard range when aggravating factors exist. Challenging the applicability and validity of alleged aggravating circumstances is an important part of sentencing mitigation.
Self-Defense
Self-defense is a legal justification for using force when reasonably necessary to prevent imminent bodily harm to yourself or others. Washington law permits proportional defensive force without requirement to retreat. To establish self-defense, the defendant must show they reasonably believed force was necessary and that the force used was proportional to the threat. Successful self-defense claims can result in acquittal or dismissal even when the defendant admits committing the physical act charged.
Restitution
Restitution is a court-ordered payment from the defendant to the victim for losses resulting from the crime, including medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Washington courts typically impose restitution as a condition of sentencing in violent crime cases. Restitution obligations can continue long after incarceration ends and may affect employment and financial stability. Negotiating reasonable restitution amounts and payment plans is important during plea negotiations.
PRO TIPS
Preserve Evidence Immediately After Arrest
Following your arrest on violent crime charges, preserving physical evidence and documenting the scene becomes critical to your defense. Contact your attorney immediately to preserve security camera footage, photographs, medical records, and witness statements before they disappear or are lost. Early evidence preservation can support self-defense claims, mistaken identity, or alternative suspect theories that would otherwise be impossible to investigate.
Never Speak to Police Without an Attorney Present
Statements you make to police during interrogation can be used against you and often harm your defense case, even if innocent. Anything you say may be interpreted differently than intended and become evidence of guilt. Always exercise your right to silence and demand an attorney before answering any questions about the charges or incident.
Document Your Own Account and Witnesses Immediately
Create a detailed written account of the incident while memories remain fresh, including your perspective, any injuries sustained, and names of witnesses who can support your version. Photographs of your own injuries or the scene, medical records documenting your condition, and text messages or communications may corroborate self-defense claims. Your attorney can use this documentation to challenge the prosecution’s narrative.
Comparing Your Violent Crimes Defense Options
Why Full Legal Defense Investigation and Advocacy Matter:
Cases with Significant Prison Time Exposure
Violent crime charges carry mandatory minimum sentences and decades of potential incarceration, making comprehensive investigation and aggressive defense absolutely necessary. When you face felony assault, robbery, or serious violence charges, thorough case preparation including expert examination of evidence and expert testimony may be required. Full legal representation provides the best opportunity to avoid catastrophic sentencing outcomes.
Complex Factual Disputes and Self-Defense Claims
Cases involving self-defense, defense of others, or disputed facts require comprehensive investigation to reconstruct the incident and identify inconsistencies in the prosecution’s evidence. Witness interviews, scene reconstruction, and forensic analysis may reveal information supporting your version of events. Comprehensive legal representation ensures all available defenses are developed and presented effectively to a jury.
When Limited Representation May Be Appropriate:
Early Diversion or Deferred Prosecution Programs
Some first-time or low-level violent crime offenses may qualify for diversion programs allowing case dismissal upon program completion. Limited representation focused on negotiating program eligibility may be appropriate if you qualify. However, legal guidance remains important to understand eligibility requirements and program obligations.
Straightforward Plea Agreements with Favorable Terms
When prosecution evidence is overwhelming and prosecutors offer substantial charge reductions or significant sentence concessions, negotiating a favorable plea agreement may serve your interests better than proceeding to trial. Limited representation focused on plea negotiation may be sufficient if you receive substantial benefit. Full legal review ensures you understand all consequences before accepting any plea agreement.
Common Violent Crime Situations in Burien
Why Choose Law Offices of Greene and Lloyd for Violent Crimes Defense
Law Offices of Greene and Lloyd brings substantial experience defending clients against violent crime charges throughout Washington. Our attorneys understand the serious consequences these charges carry and develop aggressive defense strategies tailored to your specific circumstances and facts. We maintain strong relationships with prosecutors, judges, and the local legal community, providing advantages in negotiation and courtroom advocacy. We handle every aspect of your defense from initial investigation through trial or appeal.
When you choose our firm, you receive personalized attention and direct communication with your attorney rather than working through paralegals or junior associates. We investigate thoroughly, challenge evidence rigorously, and fight aggressively for your rights. Your success is our priority, and we remain committed to achieving the best possible outcome whether through case dismissal, charge reduction, favorable plea negotiation, or trial victory. Contact us today for a confidential consultation about your violent crime defense.
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FAQS
What should I do immediately after being arrested for a violent crime?
Immediately after arrest, exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney. Do not answer questions from police or investigators, as anything you say can be used against you in court. Do not discuss details of your case with cellmates, family members via jail phone calls, or anyone except your attorney, as these communications may not be confidential. Contact Law Offices of Greene and Lloyd as soon as possible so we can begin protecting your rights, investigating the case, and preserving evidence. Your first appearance in court will occur within 72 hours of arrest. At this hearing, bail or release conditions will be determined. We can argue for your release on your own recognizance, reduced bail, or favorable conditions that allow you to remain in your community while your case is pending. Early legal intervention is critical to preventing unnecessary incarceration and securing conditions that allow us to prepare your defense effectively.
Can I be convicted of assault if I acted in self-defense?
Washington law permits self-defense when you reasonably believe force is necessary to prevent imminent bodily harm to yourself or others. If you acted in self-defense, you should not be convicted even if you admit striking the other person. Self-defense is a complete justification for the force used, meaning you can be acquitted despite physical contact. However, the force must be proportional to the threat—you cannot use excessive force beyond what was reasonably necessary. Proving self-defense requires evidence that supports your account of the incident, including witness testimony, medical records, photographs, and your own credible testimony. We investigate thoroughly to gather evidence supporting your self-defense claim, interview witnesses, and present your perspective persuasively to a jury. We also challenge the prosecution’s evidence and the alleged victim’s credibility. Successful self-defense arguments result in acquittal even when the physical altercation is undisputed.
What are the possible sentences for violent crime charges in Washington?
Washington sentencing guidelines provide mandatory minimum sentences for violent crimes based on the offense level and criminal history. Simple assault carries potential jail time up to 12 months, while assault in the second degree carries 3-12 months imprisonment and assault in the first degree carries 5 years to life depending on circumstances. Robbery charges carry 7 to 25 year sentences, and weapons involvement increases exposure dramatically. Judges must follow sentencing guidelines unless exceptional circumstances justify deviation. Beyond prison time, violent crime convictions carry collateral consequences including restraining orders, firearms prohibitions, loss of professional licenses, immigration consequences for non-citizens, and employment barriers. Substantial prison sentences can devastate your family relationships, career prospects, and financial stability. These severe consequences make aggressive defense representation critical to achieving the best possible outcome, whether through acquittal, charge reduction, or negotiated sentencing mitigation.
How long do violent crime cases typically take to resolve?
Violent crime cases typically require 6-18 months to resolve, though timeline varies based on case complexity, evidence quantity, and trial availability. Simple cases may resolve through plea negotiation within several months, while complex cases with multiple defendants or significant evidence disputes may require years for complete resolution. Discovery disputes, motion practice, and trial preparation extend timelines in cases proceeding to trial. Early case investigation and strategic planning can sometimes accelerate resolution through early charge dismissal or favorable plea negotiation. While your case is pending, you remain subject to bail conditions, no-contact orders, and other restrictions on your freedom. We work to minimize restrictions and obtain conditions allowing you to maintain employment, family relationships, and community ties while your case proceeds. We also seek to resolve your case as efficiently as possible while obtaining the best outcome, whether that requires negotiation, motion practice, or trial preparation.
Can charges be dismissed before trial?
Yes, charges can be dismissed before trial through several mechanisms including defendant-initiated motions challenging the prosecution’s evidence, prosecutor’s decision to decline prosecution, negotiated plea agreements with charge dismissal upon program completion, or successful self-defense claims established at preliminary hearing. Many cases never proceed to trial because we identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case through discovery disputes and motion practice, or because we negotiate favorable resolutions. Approximately 90-95% of criminal cases resolve through plea agreement rather than trial. Early case investigation is critical to identifying dismissal opportunities. We analyze police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence to identify constitutional violations, false allegations, or insufficient evidence. Suppression motions challenging illegally obtained evidence can result in case dismissal. We pursue every available avenue to obtain early dismissal, reducing your exposure and allowing you to move forward with your life.
What is the difference between assault and aggravated assault?
Assault and aggravated assault differ in the injury level and circumstances. Simple assault (RCW 9A.36.011) involves intentional application of unwanted force or placing someone in apprehension of harm without causing substantial injury. Assault in the second degree (RCW 9A.36.021) involves intentional assault causing substantial bodily harm, reckless assault with a weapon, or assault of specific protected persons. Assault in the first degree (RCW 9A.36.011) involves premeditated assault causing serious injury, assault with intent to cause death, or assault causing serious disfigurement. Aggravating circumstances elevate charges and sentencing exposure, including weapon use, serious injury, targeting vulnerable victims, or committing assault while in authority position. Understanding the specific charge’s elements is crucial because it determines potential sentence exposure and available defenses. We thoroughly analyze the charging document to ensure the charge is appropriate under the facts and identify ways to reduce charges through plea negotiation or motion practice.
Will a violent crime conviction affect my employment and housing?
Violent crime convictions carry serious collateral consequences affecting employment, housing, professional licensing, and personal relationships. Many employers conduct background checks and refuse to hire individuals with violent crime convictions, particularly for positions involving public contact, security, healthcare, or authority. Landlords often refuse to rent to individuals with violent criminal records. Professional licenses in healthcare, law, education, and other fields may be revoked or unavailable following conviction. These collateral consequences can devastate your career and financial stability long after incarceration ends. Sexually violent predator laws may apply following certain convictions, requiring registration and supervision. Immigration consequences apply to non-citizens, potentially resulting in deportation. Firearms prohibitions typically follow violent crime convictions, restricting your constitutional rights. Civil restraining orders may accompany criminal convictions, further restricting your freedom. These severe collateral consequences make aggressive defense critical. We fight not only to minimize incarceration but also to reduce conviction severity and collateral consequences affecting your future.
Can I appeal a violent crime conviction?
Yes, violent crime convictions can be appealed to the appellate courts within specific timeframes and based on legal issues rather than factual disagreements. Appealable issues include constitutional violations, prosecutorial misconduct, jury instructions errors, and ineffective assistance of counsel. Appeals must be filed within 30 days of sentencing, requiring immediate attention. Post-conviction relief including habeas corpus petitions may address claims of ineffective assistance of counsel or newly discovered evidence. These remedies provide additional opportunities to challenge convictions, particularly when trial attorneys failed to investigate properly or present important defenses. We handle appeals and post-conviction relief, reviewing trial records for legal errors and developing arguments for appellate courts. Even if trial outcomes were unfavorable, appellate review may result in new trials, reduced sentences, or conviction reversal. These remedies require specialized knowledge of appellate procedure and substantive law. Contact us immediately if you have been convicted and believe legal errors occurred that warrant appellate review.
What is restitution in a violent crime case?
Restitution is money the court orders the defendant to pay to the victim for losses resulting from the crime, including medical expenses, lost wages, property repair, therapy costs, and other directly related losses. Washington courts must impose restitution in most violent crime cases as a condition of probation or even following incarceration. Restitution obligations can total thousands or hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on victim injuries and expenses. Courts may impose payment plans allowing installment payments over years, but restitution becomes a debt obligation that can affect credit and financial stability. Restitution obligations continue even after incarceration ends and can be collected through wage garnishment and asset seizure. Negotiating reasonable restitution amounts, particularly when victim injuries are disputed or medical expenses are exaggerated, is important during plea negotiations. We advocate for reasonable restitution reflecting actual documented losses rather than inflated victim claims. We also negotiate manageable payment terms that allow you to satisfy obligations without destroying your financial future.
Should I take a plea agreement or go to trial?
Whether to accept a plea agreement or proceed to trial depends on the prosecution’s evidence strength, available defenses, potential sentence outcomes, and your personal circumstances. If the prosecution evidence is strong and trial risks substantial prison time, a favorable plea agreement may serve your interests. However, if evidence is weak, viable defenses exist, or the offer is unreasonable, trial may provide better opportunity for acquittal. We analyze the prosecution’s case thoroughly and advise whether trial or negotiation offers better opportunity for favorable outcome. You retain absolute decision-making authority regarding plea versus trial. We provide honest assessment of evidence strength and realistic outcome predictions, but the final decision is yours. We respect your autonomy while providing candid counsel about trial risks, including potential harsher sentences if convicted at trial. Whatever you decide, we prepare thoroughly and advocate aggressively. We negotiate hard for favorable plea terms while simultaneously preparing for trial in case negotiation fails.