Western Washington CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER
Experienced Criminal Defense Representation in Port Orchard
Being accused of a crime changes your life. It is embarrassing, stressful, and can have long-term consequences for employment or educational opportunities. Criminal charges and convictions can affect employment, education, finances, and other opportunities.
Virtually every criminal offense carries the possibility of incarceration. Many carry mandatory jail upon conviction, as well as expensive fines, probation, and other court-ordered conditions.
For these reasons, having experienced legal counsel on your side is key. At Glisson Legal, our criminal defense attorney has over 20 years of experience supporting clients in criminal defense cases. Our team is committed to customizing a legal defense that addresses your circumstances and goals.
Schedule your free consultation today by contacting our Kitsap County criminal defense lawyer at Glisson Legal online or at (360) 526-8191.
Criminal Cases We Handle
Our experienced Kitsap County lawyer knows that every case is different, as are every client’s priorities and concerns. Our team’s job is to evaluate the facts of your case, advise you on the strengths or weaknesses of the state’s evidence against you, and help you decide how best to proceed.
Stan Glisson has extensive experience defending against criminal accusations, from DUI charges to homicide cases. Depending on the facts and legal issues, a criminal law attorney may evaluate options such as motion practice, negotiation with the prosecution, a plea resolution, or trial.
Our attorney can help you with the following criminal charges:
- Assault
- Driving Under the Influence
- Domestic violence
- Drug crimes
- Felonies
- Theft Offenses
- Traffic violations
- Violent crimes
- White collar crimes
Immediate Steps After an Arrest or Criminal Charge
After an arrest, citation, or charge, early decisions may include whether to speak with investigators, how to respond to a court date, and whether release conditions, driving restrictions, or no-contact orders apply. A criminal attorney can help you understand the allegation, preserve relevant information, and prepare for the first court appearance.
Our criminal defense lawyers can review the facts, available evidence, and immediate court requirements with you. We can also discuss potential defenses and available resolutions based on the circumstances of your case.
Washington State Criminal Laws
In Washington, crimes are classified as misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, or felonies. While felony offenses are generally more serious, a misdemeanor conviction can still potentially result in a jail sentence.
The following are the two misdemeanor classifications in Washington:
- Misdemeanor (simple): Punishable by a maximum county jail term of 90 days and/or a fine of up to $1,000
- Gross misdemeanor: Carries a jail sentence of up to 364 days and/or a maximum fine of $5,000
Felonies are classified as Class A, Class B, or Class C offenses in Washington. A felony classification alone does not determine the sentence in an individual case. The charge, applicable statutes, criminal history, sentencing rules, and case facts can all matter.
The felony classes in Washington include:
- Class A felony: Punishable by life imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $50,000
- Class B felony: Carries a maximum prison sentence of 10 years and/or a fine not exceeding $20,000
- Class C felony: Punishable by a jail or prison term of up to five years and/or a maximum fine of $10,000
Port Orchard Criminal Court Context
Port Orchard criminal cases may be heard in Port Orchard Municipal Court, Kitsap County District Court, or Kitsap County Superior Court, depending on the charge, filing authority, and type of proceeding. Misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor cases are typically handled in Port Orchard Municipal Court or Kitsap County District Court, while felony charges are heard in Kitsap County Superior Court. Court-specific procedures and deadlines can affect what you need to do after receiving a citation, summons, or criminal charge.
