Class C Felony in Washington State

ByBurke Brown Attorneys

Many people underestimate how serious a class C felony really is and the effect a conviction can have on their life. Being rated “C” instead of “A” or “B” makes it sound almost minor. But the key word in the phrase is “felony.” With over 30 years of experience in criminal defense, we can assure you that there are no minor felonies in Washington state. Every single one can hit you with a slew of negative consequences, including a five-year prison sentence and fines of up to $10,000.

If you have been accused of a class C felony, it is important to understand the ramifications and to get started on an effective defense strategy as soon as possible.

Class C Felonies

Washington state criminal laws break up offenses into two main categories, misdemeanors, and felonies, with felonies being the most serious. All felonies carry the potential for jail time, and sentences over a year are generally served in a state prison. By contrast, incarceration for a misdemeanor would typically be in a county jail.

Examples of Class C Felonies

The range of class C felonies includes both violent and nonviolent offenses. Some of the class C crimes commonly charged in King County include:

As noted above, anyone convicted of a class C felony can be sentenced to up to five years in state prison and be required to pay a fine of as much as $10,000. But the unofficial consequences of a class C felony conviction can often be much worse. Having a felony of any type on your record can make people reluctant to trust you, including potential employers, landlords, banks, and even friends and dating partners. It can interfere with immigration goals, the right to carry firearms, and many other aspects of life.

Defenses Against Class C Felony Charges

A skilled and dedicated defense attorney will leave no stone unturned when it comes to investigating and making the best use of defense strategies.

Common Defenses

Potential defense options include:

  • Lack of evidence. The prosecution must prove every element of the class C felony at issue, and a good defense attorney will be able to spot instances where evidence may be weak with regard to a particular element of the crime.
  • Self-defense. Your attorney may be able to show that you had to act a particular way to protect yourself.
  • Duress. If you were forced to take a particular action, your attorney can show why your actions should not be held against you.
  • Mistake of fact. Humans make mistakes all the time, and your attorney can show how likely it is that the facts alleged in the case may be in error.
  • Illegal search and seizure. Police frequently make procedural mistakes when collecting and handling evidence, and an experienced defense attorney will probe every aspect of the case to see if the prosecution is relying on evidence that should be excluded.
  • Alibi. When your attorney can show that you couldn’t possibly have committed the actions you’re accused of, your alibi provides a solid defense.
  • Entrapment. In rare cases, it is possible for your attorney to defend you by showing that the actions at issue would not have occurred unless the police set you up.

Importance of Experienced Counsel

Working with the right defense attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case if you’ve been charged with a class C felony. A dedicated defense lawyer can investigate to gather and preserve evidence to support your defense. Your attorney can then use that evidence along with evidence presented by the prosecution to challenge the weaknesses in the case against you. A skilled attorney also may be able to challenge the veracity or legality of evidence relied on by the prosecution.

In addition, an experienced attorney will know how to protect your rights, represent your interests in and out of court, and negotiate effectively to secure the most advantageous outcome.

Juveniles and Class C Felonies

Contrary to popular belief, children and teens can be charged with felony offenses.

Unique Considerations: Juvenile vs. Adult System

While someone accused of committing a class C felony while they were under the age of 18 often have their offenses adjudicated through the juvenile justice system rather than the adult justice system, they can be declined to adult court for some class C felonies if they have a number of previous convictions or a judge believes it to be necessary. The juvenile court system is designed to educate and rehabilitate youth, while the adult criminal justice system focuses on punishment.

Potential Consequences for Juveniles

Regardless of whether a juvenile has to answer in juvenile or adult criminal court, they can face life-altering consequences. They can be incarcerated for a considerable period of time, interrupting education and social development and leaving them with emotional scars and social stigma that can be very difficult to overcome.

Protecting a Juvenile’s Future

The right to legal representation can protect the rights and opportunities of anyone accused of a class C felony, but an attorney experienced in juvenile defense can make a particular difference in the life of a young person. A skilled juvenile defense attorney can demonstrate how a young client’s inexperience caused them to act without an understanding of the consequences or intent to commit a crime. In addition, a dedicated attorney can advocate for consequences such as community service that rehabilitate without damaging fragile aspects of a developing persona and future.

How Burke Brown Attorneys, PLLC Can Help

With over 30 years of experience defending children, teens, and adults accused of wrongdoing, Burke Brown Attorneys, PLLC understands how to develop the most effective defense strategy in every situation. We focus on the needs of our clients and home in on the factors that make your case unique so we can exploit every available opportunity for your defense. If you’re looking for experienced and zealous advocacy in criminal and juvenile defense, we urge you to contact us through our website, call us at 206-933-2414, or email us at office@burkebrown.com to schedule a confidential consultation and find out more about how we can help.