For the most part, people recognize that criminal charges involve the intentional infliction of physical harm. However, there are times when verbal threats or harassment can lead to serious criminal charges, which can be surprising and concerning for those who find themselves in this situation. Felony harassment in Washington state carries steep and lasting penalties, including a jail sentence, costly fines, and other restrictions to your freedoms (such as the loss of firearm rights). If you are in need of criminal threat defense in Washington state, reach out to a highly skilled and experienced Camas and Vancouver threat crime lawyer for the effective and reliable defense services you need during this overwhelming and stressful time. Let’s take a look at how Washington state laws define felony harassment crimes and the steps you should take as soon as law enforcement arrests you for these alleged crimes.
The Legal Definition of Felony Harassment in Washington State
For the most part, an act of harassment that involves someone knowingly threatening another with bodily injury, physical damage to property, or physical confinement or restraint can lead to criminal charges in Washington state. These offenses are usually considered misdemeanor crimes, which carry penalties that are serious but not as severe as those that are imposed for felony convictions. Under RCW 9A.46.020, harassment becomes a Class C felony offense if the defendant has previous convictions for harassment against the same individual or a member of that person’s family. Felony harassment charges can also be brought against a defendant who makes an explicit or implicit intent to kill the victim or another person, as long as the prosecution can show that the threat created a credible and reasonable fear of the defendant carrying out this threat. If convicted of a Class C felony in Washington state, you could face a penalty of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, firearm restrictions, protective orders, and other lasting consequences.
Common Domestic Violence Threats That Can Lead to Felony Charges in Washington
Arguments between spouses, exes, or intimate partners can turn threatening. If one party believes that their life and physical safety is in danger because of a threat the other person made, law enforcement may make an arrest for harassment. To prove Class C felony harassment, prosecutors may use texts or voicemails from the defendant that imply violence or threaten to kill the alleged victim. Moreover, if the defendant has a history of violating no-contact or domestic violence protection orders, the prosecution can use these incidents to further their case against the defendant.
Defense Strategies Against Felony Harassment in the Camas Area
When you review your situation with a trusted and experienced Camas criminal defense lawyer, you can identify the most effective legal defense strategy to help you keep your future as bright as possible. For instance, you may argue that there was no credible threat or intent to harm the alleged victim, or that the other party made false or exaggerated reports of the incident. No matter what the specific details of your case may be, you can rely on the seasoned legal advocacy of the skilled attorneys at The Vern McCray Law Firm, PLLC, to represent your best interests at every turn.
When your freedom and future are on the line, you need exceptional and reliable criminal defense attorney services as soon as possible to ensure that your legal rights remain upheld at all times. Reach out to The Vern McCray Law Firm, PLLC, right away by calling (360) 834-6262 to get started with a highly qualified and experienced Camas, Washington criminal defense attorney.
