Tamara is a certified copywriter and editor with over four years of experience writing legal content for some of the U.S.' best-known law firms, marketing agencies and legal service providers. She has crafted thousands of practice pages, FAQs, blog posts, case studies and long-form articles on topics such as personal injury law, mass torts and criminal law.
Tamara Armstrong
Tamara is a certified copywriter and editor with over four years of experience writing legal content for some of the U.S.' best-known law firms, marketing agencies and legal service providers. She has crafted thousands of practice pages, FAQs, blog posts, case studies and long-form articles on topics such as personal injury law, mass torts and criminal law.
Jeffrey Johnson has written novels and movies in addition to legal analyses of eminent domain and immigration law. His experience in writing engaging fiction makes him uniquely capable of making the most dry and academic legal topics interesting (or as interesting as possible).
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Jeffrey Johnson, J.D.
Jeffrey Johnson has written novels and movies in addition to legal analyses of eminent domain and immigration law. His experience in writing engaging fiction makes him uniquely capable of making the most dry and academic legal topics interesting (or as interesting as possible).
Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.
Facing a criminal charge in the Emerald City can be a frightening and stressful experience. It can also carry wide-ranging consequences for your career and family life, especially if you don’t have an experienced and skilled attorney.
Our curated list of criminal defense lawyers in Seattle can guide you to top-notch legal representation.
Discover attorney profiles, information about vital aspects of Washington state criminal law and answers to frequently asked questions.
Read more
Show Summary
- Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Seattle
- Compare Top Criminal Attorneys
- What Is a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
- Understanding the Legal Process for Criminal Cases
- Expungement in Washington
- How to Choose the Best Criminal Lawyer in Seattle, Washington
- Seattle Criminal Defense Resources
- Methodology
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Seattle
Compare Top Criminal Attorneys
What Is a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
A criminal defense lawyer specializes in defending individuals charged with crimes. Their main objectives are to ensure individuals accused of crimes are treated fairly and receive proper legal representation. Criminal defense lawyers can help you in numerous ways, including:
- Advocating for your rights
- Offering legal guidance and expertise
- Building a solid defense
- Representing you in the courtroom
- Explaining complex legal issues
- Negotiating with prosecutors
Public Defender vs. Private Criminal Attorney
Public defenders are appointed by the court to defend individuals charged with a crime who cannot afford private legal representation. To be eligible for a public defender in Washington state, you must attend a financial interview and qualify as an indigent under state law.
While public defenders are often highly qualified and experienced, they may have a much heavier caseload than a private attorney. Therefore, a private criminal attorney can typically provide a more personalized and attentive approach to your case. However, since criminal defense attorneys often charge by the hour, individuals accused of a crime may face considerable legal costs, especially in lengthy and complex cases.
The Right to an Attorney or Public Defender
In Washington state, even defendants facing a misdemeanor charge must have access to a lawyer, provided the charge involves the possibility of jail time. Therefore, the right to an attorney and legal representation applies not only to those charged with the most severe crimes but can include misdemeanor charges.
Should You Represent Yourself in a Criminal Case?
While self-representation, also known as pro se, is possible, it can result in significant challenges. The legal system is complex and self-representation demands an in-depth understanding of the applicable laws and statutes, criminal procedures and courtroom etiquette.
In cases of minor infractions, you may consider representing yourself. However, if you’re facing a significant criminal charge, handling your case without an experienced and qualified attorney may not be worth the risk. Working with a skilled Seattle criminal defense lawyer can maximize your chances of a favorable outcome, such as a dismissal, not-guilty verdict or reduced charges.
Understanding the Legal Process for Criminal Cases
The criminal legal process is complex and varies depending on the circumstances of the case. Here is a brief overview of the general legal process for criminal cases:
- Criminal Investigation. The criminal case process usually begins with a criminal investigation by law enforcement. Officers may interview witnesses, gather evidence and arrest the suspect.
- Arrest. During an arrest, the officer informs the individual of their Miranda rights, which include the right to remain silent. They are then typically taken into custody and transported to jail.
- Arraignment. An arraignment is the first court appearance of the charged individual. A judge reads out the charges, and the defendant chooses to plead either guilty, not guilty or no contest. The judge may set a bail amount and determine the dates for future proceedings.
- Preliminary Hearings or Grand Jury Indictment. The government may bring charges against a defendant in a preliminary hearing or by grand jury indictment. Both are used to determine whether there is enough evidence to proceed with a criminal trial.
- Trial. A criminal trial involves presenting evidence, examining witnesses and arguing legal points before a judge or jury. At trial, parties may enter into a plea agreement at any time before the verdict is delivered.
- Sentencing. If the defendant is found guilty, sentencing will take place. A judge may impose penalties such as probation, fines, incarceration, suspended sentences and others.
Resolving a Criminal Case in Washington
Resolving a criminal case in Washington state may involve entering into a plea bargain with the prosecution. In a plea bargain, the defendant pleads guilty or no contest in exchange for a reduced charge or sentence. If both sides come to an agreement, they’ll present the plea bargain to the judge, who decides whether to accept or reject the deal. If you cannot reach a plea deal, your case will be set for trial and the outcome determined by a judge or jury.
Probation vs. Parole
If you are sentenced to probation, you can serve your sentence in the community instead of jail, provided you comply with certain conditions. Parole, on the other hand, is an early release from prison before your sentence officially ends. Whether you can benefit from parole depends on the type and severity of the offense, the length of the original sentence and your conduct while in prison.
According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS), individuals in Washington state prisons typically serve just under half of their sentences before being granted parole. However, those who have committed severe and repeat crimes are less likely to be granted parole.
Expungement in Washington
Expungement, or erasing criminal records, allows individuals to get their lives and careers back on track without the stigma of a criminal record. However, Washington state law only allows you to expunge non-conviction records, such as a case dismissal or not-guilty verdict.
Washington state law does not allow expungement of a conviction record. Instead, you can file a motion to have your criminal record vacated. If successful, vacation removes your conviction from state and federal background checks but does not erase your criminal record. Note that class A felonies, such as murder and robbery in the first degree, are generally not eligible for criminal record vacation.
How to Choose the Best Criminal Lawyer in Seattle, Washington
Being charged with a crime can change your entire life. A skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney can help to mitigate a criminal conviction. They can explain the legal process, protect your rights and reassure you. Here is what to look for:
- Experience. An excellent Seattle criminal defense lawyer has a track record of success and isn’t afraid to share their wins with you. Ask about favorable outcomes they achieved, such as helping their clients get reduced charges, acquittals and not-guilty verdicts.
- Reputation. Choose an attorney who is well respected in the legal community and whose success is underlined by peer recognition. Online testimonials from satisfied past clients can also give you a good indication of the attorney’s achievements.
- Communication Skills. Your attorney should be able to explain complex legal issues and effectively communicate your case’s developments with you at every stage of the legal process.
- Trial Proficiency. Ideally, your criminal defense attorney has won at least several trials. They should be a strong negotiator and assertively advocate for you.
- Fee Transparency. The best attorneys don’t beat about the bush regarding their fees. They inform you upfront about their hourly fee or retainer and explain how much you can expect to pay.
Seattle Criminal Defense Resources
The following Seattle criminal defense resources can assist in offering additional information:
- Seattle Police Non-Emergency Contact Number: (206) 625-5011
- Case Information and Criminal Records: Seattle Municipal Court
- Obtaining a Public Defender: King County’s Public Defender’s Office (206) 477-9727
- Community Reentry Resources: Washington State Department of Corrections
- Expungement of Criminal Records: Guide to Sealing and Destroying Court Records
- List of Resources for Children and Families: Seattle Public Library
Methodology
To come up with the criminal defense lawyers in Seattle of 2024, Forbes Advisor considered many factors. Forbes Advisor’s mathematical analysis considers and weighs the information collected to calculate a specific rating and reviews these results to find the best attorneys in a given practice area.
Within the model, we take into account factors that legal professionals and consumers value in an attorney’s qualifications. After assigning weighted scores to hundreds of data points, we narrowed the field down to our top choices based on:
- Legal experience
- Special licenses and certifications
- Ethics and bar disciplinary measures
- Legal thought leadership
- Education and employment background
- Scholarly lectures and writings
- Awards and honors
Forbes Advisor collects public data from a variety of sources, including state bar associations, court records and other published sources on the internet. This information should not be considered comprehensive, however. It might not include additional relevant information on an attorney’s legal skills and experience.
Each lawyer listed here has their own merits. Bear in mind that our list relates to these lawyers’ legal backgrounds, but does not evaluate their personalities or their knowledge of the law. One attorney may be more suitable than another for your specific legal situation.
One thing that can’t be quantified, though, is the rapport you establish with your attorney. Personality goes a long way when teaming up with an attorney, especially when going through a potentially difficult legal situation. These rankings should serve as a reference and potential starting point in your search for the right lawyer for you and your legal concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does a Seattle criminal defense lawyer cost?
If you’re facing criminal charges, you might wonder how much a defense lawyer costs and whether you can afford them. Criminal defense attorneys often charge by the hour, which means the cost can vary according to how much work is involved with your case.
In addition, the hourly charge can also vary significantly according to an attorney’s experience. For example, while some lawyers’ fees may be around $200 per hour, esteemed veteran defense attorneys with decades of experience may charge well over $300.
If billing by the hour seems uncertain and you have a routine case, such as a traffic offense or misdemeanor charge, you might favor an attorney who charges a flat fee. This way, you know your bill in advance. Remember that you may qualify for a public defender at no charge if you cannot afford a defense attorney. However, to be eligible, you must prove that you can’t afford a private lawyer.
What happens if I don’t hire a criminal defense attorney?
Technically, you are not required to hire an attorney to represent you in a criminal case. However, without adequate legal representation, you could severely jeopardize your case. Most defendants don’t have the legal knowledge, training and experience to represent themselves efficiently. When your future is at stake, consider hiring effective legal counsel. A skilled defense attorney can significantly increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
Can I go to jail for a misdemeanor in Seattle?
Even the least serious misdemeanor charge in Washington state may include jail time. Misdemeanor offenses, such as minor drug charges, traffic offenses and assault can incur severe penalties, including steep fees and jail time. They can also have detrimental impacts on your career and home life. A criminal defense lawyer can advise you on the next best steps if you have been charged with a misdemeanor offense in Washington.
