Misdemeanors in Washington

1. Simple Misdemeanors - These are the least serious crimes, punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a maximum fine of $1,000. Some examples include:
   • Disorderly conduct
   • Shoplifting
   • Trespassing
   • Simple possession of marijuana
2. Gross Misdemeanors - A step up in severity, gross misdemeanors can get you up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $5,000. Common examples are:
   • DUI (first offense)
   • Reckless driving
   • Theft (property valued at $750 or less)
   • Stalking

Felonies in Washington

1. Class C Felonies - The least serious felonies, Class C offenses are still major crimes. They carry a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Examples include:
   • Theft (property valued between $750-$5000)
   • Possession of stolen property
   • Assault in the third degree
   • Promoting prostitution
2. Class B Felonies - These are very serious crimes punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine. Some Class B felonies are:
   • Residential burglary
   • Theft of a firearm
   • Robbery in the second degree
   • Vehicular homicide
3. Class A Felonies - The most severe crimes in Washington, Class A felonies can result in life in prison and a $50,000 fine. Murder, rape, kidnapping, and arson in the first degree all fall under this category.

The Legal Process for Criminal Cases

1. Arrest and Booking - After an arrest, the suspect is taken to jail for booking. This is where they take your fingerprints, mugshot, and enter your information into the system.
2. Charges Filed - For felonies, the prosecutor has 72 hours after booking to file formal charges. For misdemeanors, charges must be filed within 48 hours or the suspect is released.
3. Arraignment - This is the suspect's first appearance in court. The charges are read, and they enter an initial plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest). Bail and other pre-trial conditions are also set at this hearing.
4. Plea Bargaining - In many cases, the defense attorney and prosecutor will negotiate a plea deal. This usually involves the defendant pleading guilty in exchange for reduced charges or a lighter sentence. Over 90% of criminal cases are resolved this way.
5. Trial - If no plea deal is reached, the case goes to trial. Misdemeanor trials are heard by a judge, while felony trials have a jury. The prosecution must prove guilt "beyond a reasonable doubt" for a conviction.
6. Sentencing - If the defendant is found guilty, the judge will impose a sentence based on the crime's severity and the offender's history. For some first-time and non-violent offenses, the judge may choose an alternative like the First Time Offender Waiver or Drug Offender Sentencing Alternative that focuses on rehabilitation over punishment.

Alternatives to Incarceration

• Work Release - Serving the sentence in a residential facility while holding a job in the community.
• Electronic Home Monitoring (EHM) - Serving the sentence at home while being monitored by GPS.
• Community Service - Unpaid work for non-profit or government agencies in lieu of jail time.
• Substance Abuse Treatment - Court-ordered treatment programs for offenders with drug or alcohol issues.
• Mental Health Court - Specialized court that provides treatment and supervision for offenders with mental illnesses.

Collateral Consequences of a Criminal Conviction

• Employment - Many employers ask about criminal history on job applications. While it's illegal to have a blanket ban on hiring felons, a conviction can still put you at a disadvantage, especially for jobs requiring a professional license or security clearance.
• Housing - Landlords often run background checks on potential tenants. With a criminal record, finding housing can be a real challenge.
• Education - If you're applying to college or for financial aid, you may have to disclose your criminal history. Some schools have policies against admitting students with certain convictions.
• Civil Rights - Felons lose their right to vote, serve on a jury, and possess firearms, even after completing their sentence. In Washington, voting rights are automatically restored upon release, but gun rights require a separate petition to the court.
• Immigration - For non-citizens, certain convictions can lead to deportation proceedings, even for green card holders.

Expunging or Sealing Criminal Records in Washington

• Expungement - In Washington, this is called "vacating" a conviction. If granted, the conviction is removed from your record and you can legally say you have not been convicted of that crime. However, it doesn't completely erase the arrest or court records. Eligibility depends on the offense and how much time has passed.
• Sealing - If a conviction can't be vacated, you might be able to have the records sealed. This means the public can't access them, but they still exist and can be seen by law enforcement and the courts. Again, eligibility varies based on the crime and your history.