Criminal Defense Lawyers

Spokane, WA Certificate of Disposition

Understanding Certificates of Disposition in Spokane, WA

What is a Certificate of Disposition?

A certificate of disposition is an official court document. It summarizes the outcome of a criminal case. The certificate is certified – meaning verified as authentic by a court officer. It contains key details like the final charges, verdict, and sentencing information.

You may need to provide a certificate of disposition when:

• Applying for immigration benefits like a green card or DACA
• Seeking certain professional licenses
• Applying for housing or employment in some cases

A certificate only covers one specific case. It is not a complete criminal history record. The request process varies by court. So pay close attention to their requirements.

Potential Dispositions on the Certificate

• Acquitted: Found not guilty at trial
• Convicted: Entered a guilty plea or found guilty
• Vacated: Conviction withdrawn/thrown out
• Dismissed: Charges dropped, not prosecuted
• Pending: Charges still being investigated/prosecuted

Why is it Important?

Certificates show how past brushes with the law were resolved. This impacts:

• Your moral character determination for immigration
• Your ability to get licensed in certain fields
• Whether you can get hired for some jobs

Having proper documentation is crucial. An incomplete or incorrect certificate could jeopardize your plans.

Obtaining a Certificate in Spokane

The process starts at the court where the case was handled. This could be:

• Spokane County District Court
• Spokane County Superior Court
• Spokane Municipal Court
• Federal courts like the U.S. District Court for Eastern Washington

Each court has its own procedures. Some key tips:

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

• Use the defendant’s full legal name from the case file
• Have details like date of birth, case number ready
• Be prepared to show ID and cover fees
• Request in person if possible for faster service

Spokane County District Court

For district court cases:

• Request in person at 1116 W Broadway Ave, Spokane
• Or mail requests to the court clerk
• Provide case numbers and defendant details
• Be prepared to pay fees

Spokane County Superior Court

For superior court cases:

• Visit the clerk’s office at 1116 W Broadway Ave
• Have the case number and defendant’s name ready
• Specify you need a certified disposition
• Pay the required fees

City of Spokane Municipal Court

For municipal court matters:

• Request must be made in person
• Go to 1100 W Mallon Ave, Spokane
• Bring ID, case details, and payment

Federal Courts

For federal cases in Eastern Washington:

• Request can be made by mail or in person
• At the U.S. District Courthouse, 920 W Riverside Ave #300, Spokane
• Provide details like case number, defendant name
• Pay any applicable fees

No matter the court, be patient. Fulfilling requests can take days or weeks in some cases.

Reasons to Get a Certificate

There are several key scenarios where you’ll need an official certificate:

Immigration Matters

For any immigration benefit, a certificate verifies:

• You were acquitted or charges were dismissed
• Convictions, sentences already served
• Pending charges that could impact moral character

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires this documentation. It provides clarity on criminal history issues.

Professional Licenses

Many professional licenses require background checks. A certificate proves:

• You have no disqualifying convictions
• Past charges were resolved favorably
• You meet good moral character requirements

This applies to licenses for careers like:

• Healthcare professions
• Trades like plumbing or electrical work
• Childcare and teaching positions
• Real estate, insurance, and finance roles

Housing Applications

Some landlords do criminal background screening. A certificate shows:

• You have no recent or outstanding convictions
• Older charges were dismissed or convictions vacated
• You have served your sentence for past offenses

This documentation can help qualify for rental housing.

Employment Screening

Many employers now check applicants’ backgrounds. A certificate demonstrates:

• You are honest about any past incidents
• Charges were ultimately dismissed
• You have addressed and resolved prior convictions

Having official records can satisfy employers’ concerns.

Typical Fees for Certificates

Courts charge administrative fees for certificate requests. Costs vary, but expect:

There may also be fees for:

• Retrieving older case files from archives
• Conducting record searches if you lack details
• Mailing/shipping costs if not picking up in person

Some courts offer fee waivers if you:

• Receive need-based public assistance
• Have very low income
• Are representing yourself without a lawyer

Ask the court clerk about any available fee waiver options.

Timing Your Request

When should you request a certificate of disposition? It depends on your situation:

• For immigration cases, get it after all charges are fully resolved
• For licensing, have it ready when submitting your application
• For housing, request it 2-4 weeks before applying
• For jobs, get it before interviewing or shortly after being hired

The key? Allow plenty of time for processing. Requests can take:

• 1-2 weeks for currently open/pending cases
• 3-6 weeks for recently resolved cases
• 6-12 weeks for older cases requiring archive retrieval

Expedited service may be available for an extra fee. But in general, plan ahead.

Correcting Errors on Certificates

Mistakes can happen. If you spot an error:

• Note the specific inaccuracy in writing
• Gather any supporting documentation
• Contact the issuing court promptly

The court clerk’s office should be able to:

• Review the original case file
• Compare it to the certificate you received
• Issue an amended, corrected certificate if needed

Don’t delay. Errors can impact immigration filings, licensing, and more. Address them quickly.

When a Certificate Isn’t Enough

In some cases, a simple certificate may not suffice:

• Your record involves serious violent felonies
• You have a lengthy criminal history
• Charges were very recent or are still pending

You may need additional documentation, like:

• Certified copies of court dispositions
• Police/arrest records related to the case
• Proof you completed all sentencing requirements

An experienced criminal defense lawyer can advise you. They understand what evidence will be required.

Working with a Lawyer

For complex situations, hire a local lawyer. Benefits include:

• Full understanding of Washington criminal laws
• Ability to obtain comprehensive records
• Expertise in addressing criminal history issues
• Advocacy writing evidence submissions/explanations

A skilled Spokane attorney ensures you have everything needed. This attention to detail prevents delays or denials.

At Spodek Law Group, we take a hands-on approach. Our team:

• Carefully researches your entire situation
• Holds strategy meetings to cover all angles
• Prepares thorough, persuasive evidence packets
• Advocates forcefully to get you the best results

No matter how tough your case seems, we’ll find a solution. Our criminal lawyers in Spokane have your back. Don’t risk having your plans derailed over a missing document. Get superior legal representation from day one. Schedule a consultation with our firm now.