What is a Misdemeanor in Washington State?
In Washington state, a misdemeanor is a type of criminal offense that is considered less serious than a felony but more serious than a traffic infraction. Misdemeanors are typically punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine.
Definition of a Misdemeanor
According to Washington state law, a misdemeanor is defined as a crime that is punishable by a fine, imprisonment in the county jail for a period not exceeding 90 days, or both. RCW 9A.04.060 defines a misdemeanor as:
"…any crime which is not a felony, and which is punishable by a fine, imprisonment in the county jail for a period not exceeding 90 days, or both."
Types of Misdemeanors
There are several types of misdemeanors in Washington state, including:
- Class C misdemeanors: These are the most minor type of misdemeanor and are punishable by a fine only.
- Class B misdemeanors: These are more serious than Class C misdemeanors and are punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine.
- Class A misdemeanors: These are the most serious type of misdemeanor and are punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine.
Examples of Misdemeanors
Some examples of misdemeanors in Washington state include:
- Simple assault: This is a Class C misdemeanor that involves physically harming or threatening to harm another person.
- Vandalism: This is a Class C misdemeanor that involves damaging or destroying another person’s property.
- Shoplifting: This is a Class C misdemeanor that involves taking merchandise from a store without paying for it.
- Trespassing: This is a Class C misdemeanor that involves entering or remaining on someone else’s property without permission.
Punishment for Misdemeanors
The punishment for a misdemeanor in Washington state depends on the type of misdemeanor and the defendant’s criminal history. Some common punishments for misdemeanors include:
- Fines: Fines for misdemeanors can range from $100 to $1,000 or more, depending on the type of offense.
- Jail time: Misdemeanors can result in up to 90 days in jail, depending on the type of offense and the defendant’s criminal history.
- Community service: In some cases, a defendant may be ordered to perform community service as a condition of their sentence.
Consequences of a Misdemeanor Conviction
A misdemeanor conviction can have serious consequences for a person’s life and future. Some of the consequences of a misdemeanor conviction include:
- Criminal record: A misdemeanor conviction will result in a criminal record, which can be used against the defendant in future legal proceedings.
- Loss of employment: A misdemeanor conviction can result in the loss of employment, especially in fields that require a high level of integrity or trust.
- Loss of voting rights: In some cases, a misdemeanor conviction can result in the loss of voting rights.
- Increased insurance rates: A misdemeanor conviction can result in increased insurance rates, especially for drivers.
How to Fight a Misdemeanor Charge
If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, it is important to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney to fight the charges. Some common defenses for misdemeanors include:
- Insufficient evidence: If the prosecution does not have sufficient evidence to prove the charges, the defense may be able to argue that the charges should be dismissed.
- Entrapment: If the defendant was induced or persuaded to commit the crime by law enforcement or someone else, the defense may be able to argue that the defendant was entrapped and should not be held accountable.
- Self-defense: If the defendant committed the crime in self-defense, the defense may be able to argue that the defendant was justified in committing the crime.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a misdemeanor in Washington state is a type of criminal offense that is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine. Misdemeanors can result in serious consequences, including a criminal record, loss of employment, and increased insurance rates. If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, it is important to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney to fight the charges and protect your rights.
Table: Types of Misdemeanors in Washington State
| Type of Misdemeanor | Punishment |
|---|---|
| Class C Misdemeanor | Fine only |
| Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days in jail and/or fine |
| Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days in jail and/or fine |
Bullets List: Consequences of a Misdemeanor Conviction
• Criminal record
• Loss of employment
• Loss of voting rights
• Increased insurance rates
