Facing criminal charges, no matter how minor they may seem, is an extremely serious matter. If you are facing criminal charges of any kind, it’s important that you work with a criminal defense attorney if you want your case to achieve the best outcome possible.
Federal Way criminal defense attorney, Morgan Fletcher Benfield, is experienced in criminal law and has a proven track record of successfully resolved cases. Due to his history working in criminal defense, Morgan Fletcher Benfield is able to build and present powerful defenses for his clients and help them achieve the best possible outcome for their cases. To help you understand what this law office can do for you, the rest of this article is dedicated to introducing our criminal defense services in Federal Way.
Federal Way DUI Attorney
A DUI charge can have a drastic impact on your life. A DUI is usually charged as a gross misdemeanor and carries a maximum sentence of 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. Where there have been two prior DUIs or DUI related convictions in the past 10 years, a new DUI can be charged as a felony. Having either of those convictions on your record can have a number of consequences, including fines, suspension or loss of your license, and jail time.
On top of immediate consequences, a DUI can have lasting effects such as loss of employment opportunities due to a criminal record, as well as difficulty traveling outside of the United States. If you are being charged with a DUI in Federal Way, you should seek out legal help immediately. By working with a seasoned criminal defense attorney, you greatly increase the odds of having your sentence reduced or your case dismissed.
Drug Possession
Possession of any type of controlled drug (excluding marijuana) is considered a Class C felony for both adults and minors in Washington State. Examples of a controlled drug are substances such as heroin, methamphetamine, oxycontin, oxycodone, and cocaine. Consequences for drug possession in Federal Way are extremely severe ranging from fines of up to $10,000 and five years in prison.
When it comes to marijuana possession, things are a little more complicated. In Washington State, marijuana use for both medical and recreational purposes is legal — although it carries a number of limitations that you should abide by. Depending on the form of the marijuana that you purchase, it carries different limitations and people below the age of 21 are not permitted to buy or possess marijuana at all.
If you have been accused of drug possession in the Federal Way area, don’t delay in seeking legal help. A criminal defense attorney will be able to analyze all of the evidence and circumstances surrounding your case and get illegitimate evidence dismissed.
Assault, Domestic Violence in Federal Way
First-degree assault is considered a Class A Felony and carries significant consequences due to the violent nature of such a crime. Assault in Federal Way can get the assailant up to life in prison or subject them to fines amounting to $50,000.
Cases of assault often occur in domestic situations which can lead to even more severe consequences. If you have been accused of assault or domestic violence, it is essential to work with a criminal defense attorney immediately.
Soliciting, Prostitution
The act of soliciting prostitution is illegal in the state of Washington and carries significant legal repercussions.
There has been an increased effort by law enforcement in recent months to crack down on buying and selling sexual services. This means police stings against prostitution locations are becoming more frequent.
If you are facing soliciting or prostitution charges, it is vital that you work with a skilled criminal defense attorney in Federal Way in order to clear your name.
Felony Charges
Facing felony charges can lead to very serious repercussions for you legally, socially, and professionally. Felony trials are lengthy ordeals that can result in multiple court dates, loss of employment, time spent in prison, and fines.
If you are facing felony charges, it is important to work with a criminal defense attorney from Federal Way who is familiar with felony cases. By partnering with a firm like The Law Offices Morgan
Fletcher Benfield, PLLC, you take the first step towards getting your life back to normal.
Misdemeanors
While the term “misdemeanor” sounds a lot gentler than a felony, even a simple misdemeanor can land you in prison for up to 90 days and have you facing $1,000 fines. Misdemeanors include a wide variety of non-violent crimes like disorderly conduct, vandalism, and shoplifting.
Even though the consequences are less severe than those following a felony, you should be careful about passively accepting your misdemeanor since the consequences of repeated or stacked up misdemeanors are more severe.
If you have been charged with a misdemeanor in Federal Way, you should find a criminal defense attorney to work with immediately so that you can begin building your defense.
Get Legal Help In Federal Way Today
Getting charged with a misdemeanor or a felony can lead to serious, life-altering consequences. If you have received either charge, you should be aware of the probable repercussions of such a charge and take legal action to combat as many of the lasting effects as possible.
Even after you’ve paid the fine or served the time, a felony conviction will stay with you — limiting future employment, housing, and travel opportunities.
Federal Way criminal defense attorney Morgan Fletcher Benfield is committed to providing you with the best possible defense possible in order to achieve a positive outcome for your case.
If you are facing criminal charges and you’re not sure what steps to take in order to take control of your legal situation, contact our law firm today. We will help you learn about your legal options and will get you started rebuilding your life.
