Criminal Defense Attorneys in Pierce County
An arrest on criminal charges can be distressing and worrisome. You may be wondering if you’ll be forced to serve jail time. And if so, who will care for your family? What will happen to your career? Will you have to pay large fines?
These are all legitimate concerns that can be compounded by feelings of uncertainty, especially if you’ve never been in trouble with the criminal justice system since you won’t know what to expect. Criminal charges can have a significant, far-reaching impact on your life, your career, your reputation and the lives of those you love.
At The Law Offices of Kevin Trombold, LLC, our Pierce County criminal defense attorneys strive to guide you through the legal process as we defend your case and strive to reach the most ideal outcome.
Our firm was founded by Attorney Kevin Trombold, a criminal defense lawyer who has more than 20 years of experience in the field, our law firm is prepared to handle all misdemeanors and felonies. Some of our cases include theft, burglary, robbery, assault and battery, domestic violence, drug crimes, gang crimes, sexual assault and rape, child pornography, kidnapping, criminal threats, child endangerment and white collar crimes.
Over the years, our Pierce County defense attorneys have worked with clients from different stages of life, defending them from criminal charges that carry serious, life-altering jail sentences and penalties. Every client’s case is different; however, our focus is always the same: to defend your case, protect your interests and help you maintain your freedom.
When your freedom and your future is on the line, don’t trust just anyone with your case. Turn to the criminal defense attorneys with The Law Offices of Kevin Trombold, LLC.
Most Asked Questions and Concerns After a Pierce County Arrest
Our team of Washington criminal defense attorneys field lots of questions regarding the legal system and what to expect as a case unfolds. At The Law Offices of Kevin Trombold, LLC, our experts work hard to ensure that our clients are well-informed and involved throughout the process, as we believe this can make for a less overwhelming experience.
Are There Different Levels of Misdemeanors?
Crimes are categorized as a felony or as a less serious misdemeanor. But there are sub-categories within these two categories. In the case of misdemeanors, there are two basic classifications: a simple or regular misdemeanor, which is the less serious of the two, and there’s a gross misdemeanor, which is considered more serious.
A simple misdemeanor is applied to crimes such as shoplifting or disorderly conduct. The Revised Code of Washington (RCW) reveals that a regular or simple misdemeanor carries a fine of up to $5,000 and a maximum sentence of up to 90 days in jail.
In the case of a more serious gross misdemeanor, such as a first-offense driving under the influence charge or a protection order violation, the maximum penalty is a fine of up to $5,000 and no more than one year in jail.
What Are the Different Felony Classifications?
Just like misdemeanors, felonies can be classified into a few different subcategories depending upon the severity and seriousness of the crime. All felonies, regardless of classification, are typically handled in Washington’s Superior Courts.
Felonies are classified into three types: A, B and C. A Class A felony is the most serious, whereas a Class C felony is the least serious. There is also one charge that is more serious than a Class A felony. Below is some insight at the potential penalties for these classes:
- Class A Felony – Punishable by up to $50,000 in fines and life in prison.
- Class B Felony – Punishable by up to $20,000 in fines and up to ten years in prison.
- Class C Felony – Punishable by up to $10,000 in fines and five years in prison.
- Aggravated First Degree Murder – This charge is in a class of its own and anyone convicted of aggravated first-degree murder is subject to the death penalty in Washington state.
Washington’s laws also have a provision that allows for a “seriousness” designation for each alleged crime. Each level has its own sentencing guidelines that the judge can opt to impose. There are 15 levels in all, from Level I to Level XV.
Is There a Statute of Limitations?
The statute of limitations refers to the timeframe for prosecuting the crime. After the expiration of the statute of limitations, the case can no longer be prosecuted (barring any special circumstances.)
In most cases, the statute of limitations timeframe starts on the date when the crime allegedly happened. However, there are some exceptions, specifically surrounding rape and sexual assault cases, which may have a statute of limitations timeframe that begins when a young victim reaches a specific age or at the point when DNA testing implicates a specific individual.
There are a number of serious crimes that have no statute of limitations, meaning that the case could successfully be prosecuted at any time in the future. The crimes that lack a statute of limitations include:
- Murder;
- Arson Resulting in Death
- Vehicular Assault Resulting in Death
- Hit and Run Resulting in Death
- Homicide by Abuse;
- Vehicular Homicide.
Generally speaking, the more serious the crime, the longer the statute of limitations will be. Crimes such as rape and arson can carry a ten-year statute of limitations. Less serious crimes such as theft, including identity theft, come with a six-year statute of limitations.
A simple misdemeanor typically must be prosecuted within one year. Gross misdemeanors typically carry a two-year statute of limitations.
Our Pierce County Criminal Defense Attorneys Are Here to Represent Your Case
The prospect of going to trial can be a scary and stressful reality, but this is where our Pierce County defense attorneys can assist. We work with clients throughout the region, using a strategic approach to your case. Our goal is to bring about the best possible outcome of your case.
Founded by Attorney Kevin Trombold – a defense lawyer who has over 20 years of experience – our law firm is regarded as one of the best in the region. We have assembled an elite legal team that will defend you, your interests and your freedom.
Contact The Law Offices of Kevin Trombold, LLC to receive a fully confidential consultation session. Call us at 206-590-7667.
