Experienced Yakima Violent Crimes Attorney
If you or a loved one has just been accused of a violent crime, you are likely feeling panicked, overwhelmed and entirely unsure of what to do next. A formal accusation of a life-changing offense can immediately threaten your family, your career and your liberty. At Scott Law Firm in Yakima, Washington, we bring over 30 years of fierce criminal defense experience rooted exclusively in Washington law. We know the local judges, prosecutors and regional courts.
Fighting Violent Crime Charges: How We Can Help You
When life hangs in the balance of these terrible charges, you need a world-class criminal defense attorney to walk in and take full control of your case. We’re your weapon against the intense pressure of interrogations and a safe guide through these treacherous proceedings. In serious murder defenses, we aggressively attack state’s forensic testimony, crime scene recreations – because evidence can be messed up, analyzed incorrectly or scientifically unreliable – as we fully embrace the boundaries of self-defense and defense of others defined by our state’s laws – even going so far as to ensure a judge or jury fully understands why your decision to defend yourself, your friends or your family was the right one.
Our core violent crimes practice areas include:
- Assault
- Robbery
- Rape
- Murder
- Manslaughter
Being targeted by the justice system – whether for a complex felony or highly sensitive domestic violence allegations – does not mean you are guilty. As your dedicated defense lawyer, we stand between you and the prosecution to protect your future. Our goal is to achieve a complete dismissal, a reduction in charges or an absolute victory at trial.
Frequently Asked Questions About Violent Crimes
You likely have questions about how certain laws might affect your upcoming case. We took the time to answer some of our most frequently asked questions to provide you with immediate insight into your current legal standing.
Can an assault charge be completely dismissed if the incident involved documented self-defense?
State law allows for reasonable self-defense. This means that you may use an appropriate level of force to protect yourself or your family if you are in fear of imminent death or serious bodily harm.
In Washington, self-defense is generally considered an affirmative defense for the jury to decide at trial. While a trial court can dismiss a charge before trial if the prosecution fails to present sufficient evidence at a pretrial hearing, disagreements about whether a person acted in self-defense must be resolved by a jury at trial, not by a judge beforehand.
How does a weapon enhancement modification impact the mandatory minimum sentence of a violent crime charge?
Weapon enhancements significantly elevate the severity of crimes. For instance, when a crime involves such an enhancement, the resulting sentence is often much harsher. According to the Washington statute on weapon and firearm enhancements, RCW 9.94A.533, a person convicted of a crime involving a weapon must serve a predetermined, fixed-term prison sentence that is added consecutively to the sentence for the underlying offense. This strict, automatic punishment underscores the importance of adopting a strong defensive stance when facing charges involving a weapon.
What legal criteria distinguish voluntary Manslaughter from a first-degree murder indictment?
In Washington, criminal law does not recognize “Voluntary Manslaughter.” An intentional killing that occurs without premeditation is charged as Murder in the Second Degree (RCW 9A.32.050). In contrast, Manslaughter in Washington requires proving either recklessness (RCW 9A.32.060) or criminal negligence (RCW 9A.32.070).
Secure Your Private Case Consultation
Avoid automated messages, reach experienced real attorneys and ensure your conversation remains private. Just call our team today at 509-574-0991 or send a message via our secure, private online contact form and let us review your case. At Scott Law Firm, when your freedom is on the line, nothing less than the best will do.