If you have been accused of a felony in the State of Washington, you should not represent yourself. Contact our felony defense attorney Mark A. Chmelewski to represent you. Mr. Chmelewski will work hard for you to see that you get the best possible outcome for your felony charge.
Mr. Chmelewski has been practicing law since 1990. Your future depends on the outcome of your case. As an experienced criminal attorney, Mr. Chmelewski does not look at you as “just a case number.” He will defend and protect your rights, whether you have a problem as minor as a speeding ticket or have been accused of a major felony.
Consequences of Being Charged with a Felony
In addition to being fined and spending time in jail if convicted, you will find that it is difficult to get hired for most jobs, may have a hard time obtaining insurance, may not be able to rent an apartment or buy a house and many other collateral consequences. Additionally, your civil rights as to gun ownership, voting and other rights may be revoked.
Mr. Chmelewski will review your case and the facts surrounding your case to determine whether you may have been wrongfully accused or should not have been charged with a felony, but a misdemeanor instead. Prior to your trial, Mr. Chmelewski will attempt a settlement with the prosecuting authority if your situation warrants it.
Felony Maximum Sentences
Washington classifies felonies in three sections. Felonies are categorized into classes A, B, or C in descending order of seriousness. Felony cases are heard in Superior Court. Felony crimes are more serious than misdemeanors and include such offenses as rape, armed robbery, burglary, and sales or distribution of illegal drugs. According to RCW 9A.20.021, a person charged with a felony after July 1, 1984 could spend significant time in jail and could face significant fines.
*A person convicted of a Class A felony could see a maximum of life imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $50,000. Class A is usually reserved for the most serious types of felonies such as first degree murder, rape, involuntary servitude of a minor, kidnaping in the first degree, or other crimes that are considered to be heinous. *A person convicted of a Class B felony could see a maximum of 10 years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $25,000. A Class B felony is a classification reserved for very serious crimes, although these crimes are not as serious as Class A felonies. Class B felonies typically include crimes against a person or possession of illegal items, such as: First degree reckless homicide. Manslaughter. Aggravated sexual assault. *A person convicted of a Class C felony could see a maximum of five years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
The court, upon its discretion could choose imprisonment, a fine or both. Felony charges risk damaging your rights and options for the rest of your life. Contact Mr. Chmelewski to help you protect and defend your rights.
Regularly representing clients in Kittitas, Yakima, Grant, Chelan and Douglas Counties.
