Criminal Defense in Washington
Facing a criminal charge in Washington can turn your world upside down. From the moment you’re accused, the legal system can feel overwhelming, with high stakes and unforgiving deadlines.
A Washington criminal defense attorney can help protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s case, and work toward the best possible resolution. That could mean negotiating a lighter sentence, pushing for a dismissal, or fighting for your acquittal in court.
Don’t wait for the next hearing to take control of your future. Contact us today, and we’ll connect you with a Washington criminal defense attorney who can step in immediately.
Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Washington
Hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Washington gives you more than legal representation—it gives you a trusted advocate who will stand by your side at every step. From pre-trial negotiations to courtroom strategy, an experienced defense attorney can challenge the evidence, protect your rights, and fight for your future.
What is the Difference Between Parole and Probation?
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Washington, it’s important to understand that incarceration isn’t the only possible outcome. Depending on your case, you might qualify for probation or parole—two very different forms of supervision that carry distinct legal requirements.
Probation
Probation in Washington often serves as a sentencing alternative to jail or prison time. When granted, it allows individuals to remain in the community under court-ordered conditions, rather than serving their full sentence behind bars.
One of the conditions that sets Washington probation apart is the reduced expectation of privacy. Courts have held that individuals on probation may be subject to warrantless searches, even in the absence of probable cause.
Probation is also designed to offer second chances. Judges may use probation to give a defendant the opportunity to rehabilitate while remaining a productive member of society. But this isn’t guaranteed. You’ll still need a skilled legal defense to make the case for probation.
Even without serving time in jail, probation can feel restrictive. Courts often impose strict conditions, such as mandatory treatment programs, community service, travel restrictions, and curfews. Regular check-ins and random drug testing are also common, and failure to comply can quickly land you back before a judge.
In Washington, judges may also require restitution to victims, payment of court fines and fees, and participation in counseling or education programs. The length of probation depends on the nature of the offense, your prior criminal history, and the court’s discretion.
According to RCW 9.95.210, the maximum length of probation cannot exceed the statutory maximum sentence for the offense, or two years—whichever is longer. However, for crimes involving domestic violence, Washington law allows probation to extend up to five years (see RCW 9.95.204).
Probation Revoked
Failing to follow the court’s exact instructions while on probation in Washington can lead to swift consequences. If you violate any terms, the judge has the authority to revoke your probation. This not only means going to jail but could also result in additional penalties depending on how severe the violation is.
While the specific terms of probation are tailored to each individual case, the United States Probation and Pretrial Services outlines several common conditions that courts often impose. These may include:
- Paying court-ordered restitution, fees, or fines
- Meeting with your probation officer as scheduled
- Holding a full-time job or attending school
- Avoiding all criminal behavior and known criminal associates
- Not purchasing, possessing, or using firearms or explosive devices
In Washington, a probation officer is your point of contact throughout the supervision period. They track your compliance, conduct home or workplace visits, and submit regular reports to the court. If there are concerns about your conduct or missed obligations, the officer can initiate a violation report that lands you back before a judge.
If that happens, your freedom could be in jeopardy. Judges don’t take probation violations lightly, especially if prior warnings or graduated sanctions have already been used. If you’re facing allegations of non-compliance, a skilled Washington criminal defense attorney can help defend your rights, present mitigating evidence, and push for alternatives to incarceration.
Parole
In Washington, parole and probation are not interchangeable terms, and understanding the distinction is key if you’re navigating post-incarceration conditions. While probation involves court supervision outside of prison, parole typically refers to conditional release from incarceration before completing the full sentence.
The responsibilities of a parole officer extend beyond check-ins. These professionals conduct progress assessments, make home visits, and report back to the court or parole board. Their evaluations can directly impact whether you continue parole or are returned to custody.
However, Washington is one of fifteen states that has abolished traditional parole for most offenders. The state eliminated discretionary parole in 1984, meaning individuals convicted after July 1 of that year are typically required to serve their full sentence.
Work With an Experienced Local Washington Criminal Defense Lawyer
A Washington criminal defense attorney can be an invaluable ally when you’re facing charges that could impact your freedom, finances, and future. Rather than navigating complex laws and local procedures alone, your attorney works directly with prosecutors to pursue a favorable resolution—whether that means negotiating a fair plea agreement, advocating for reduced sentencing, or fighting for a complete dismissal.
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in any state, contact our team to learn how we can connect you with a reputable criminal defense attorney near you. We can even help you connect with an attorney across Washington state lines.
Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in your area!
About the Author
Aaron is a professional legal writer with a B.S. in English Education from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. He has written, published, and edited thousands of legal articles for RequestLegalHelp, which has connected over 5 million people to legal help in the United States.
With over five years of experience writing thousands of legal articles for law firms across the U.S. and Canada, Aaron specializes in covering federal, state, and city-level legal issues ranging from auto accidents to wrongful terminations.
There are other areas of Washington law that could apply to your case.
