There are two general categories of crimes under Washington Law. These are misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors are the less severe of the two offenses. Further, they come in two types – simple misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors. While Washington felony cases are heard in Superior Court, misdemeanor cases are heard in Washington’s District and Municipal Courts. If you or someone you know has been charged with a misdemeanor offense, contact Black Law now to get the proven legal help you deserve.
Simple Misdemeanors
For all misdemeanor crimes, simple misdemeanors are the least serious. Some examples of a simple misdemeanor include:
- Simple drug crimes (e.g., possession of small amounts of marijuana);
- Petty theft; and,
- Some traffic offenses.
The maximum penalties for a simple misdemeanor include:
- Imprisonment for up to 90 days in jail; and/or,
- A fine of up to $1,000.
Please note that these are the maximum penalties. A defendant guilty of a simple misdemeanor may receive the maximum penalties, or, he may receive a reduced penalty. The actual penalty an offender receives is based upon such factors as:
- The seriousness of the crime committed;
- The defendant’s criminal history; and,
- The involvement of any aggravating circumstances.
Gross Misdemeanors
Gross misdemeanors are more severe crimes than simple misdemeanors. Some examples of a gross misdemeanor include:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI);
- Some domestic violence offenses (e.g., domestic assault); and,
- Reckless driving.
The maximum penalties for a gross misdemeanor include:
- Imprisonment for up to one year in jail; and/or,
- A fine of up to $5,000.
Again, please note that these are the maximum penalties. As with simple misdemeanors, a defendant guilty of a gross misdemeanor may receive the maximum penalties, or, he may receive a reduced penalty. The actual penalty an offender receives is based upon such factors as:
- The seriousness of the crime committed;
- The defendant’s criminal history; and,
- The involvement of any aggravating circumstances.
Legal Defenses
The good news is that there are certain legal defenses that an accused can raise if he has been charged with a misdemeanor offense (no matter if it’s a simple misdemeanor or a gross misdemeanor). A legal defense basically says a defendant is not guilty because of some reason. If successful, a defense can reduce or even dismiss a charge.
However, it is critical to know that it takes an experienced Washington criminal defense attorney to raise the best legal defense. Black Law is a Seattle based criminal defense firm whose attorneys having over 20 years of combined experience fighting criminal charges. They have the skill, dedication, and strength to raise the best possible defense on your behalf. Do yourself a favor and contact Black Law now to get the proven legal assistance you deserve.
