CRIMINAL LAW

Under Washington law, “assault” is defined broadly and can include:

• An attempt to unlawfully inflict bodily harm on another person
• Unlawful physical contact with criminal intent
• Placing someone in fear of imminent harm, even without actual intent or ability

Assault charges range from 4th degree (gross misdemeanor) to 1st degree (Class A felony), with penalties that may include jail or prison time, probation, fines, and a permanent criminal record.

Washington recognizes multiple degrees of assault, each with increasing severity:

• Assault 1: Intent to cause great bodily harm with a deadly weapon or force likely to produce death
• Assault 2: Causing substantial bodily harm or assaulting with a deadly weapon
• Assault 3: Assaulting certain professionals (police, healthcare workers) or causing bodily harm with criminal negligence
• Assault 4: Any unwanted, intentional touching or threat of harm without lawful justification

Felony assault convictions carry harsher penalties and lasting consequences, including loss of firearm rights.

At ClifftopLaw, we act quickly to:

• Challenge restrictive release conditions at arraignment
• Investigate facts thoroughly to identify legal or evidentiary issues
• Present self-defense, accident, or mistaken identity defenses where applicable
• Negotiate for reduced charges or case dismissal when possible

We ensure the prosecution is held to its burden of proving every element beyond a reasonable doubt.

In Washington State, domestic violence (DV) refers to certain criminal acts — including assault — committed by one family or household member against another. This includes spouses, former spouses, dating partners, parents, children, siblings, and individuals who share a child.

The “DV tag” is an added classification on top of the underlying criminal charge, bringing enhanced penalties and long-term consequences.

A domestic violence allegation can lead to:

• Firearm forfeiture and loss of gun rights
• No-contact orders lasting the entire case
• Mandatory counseling or treatment programs
• Impact on child custody and visitation rights
• Housing and financial burdens due to enforced separation

Because no-contact orders often remain in place until the case is resolved, delays can have devastating financial and emotional effects.

At ClifftopLaw, we understand the high stakes in domestic violence cases. Our team:

• Acts immediately to address no-contact orders and other restrictions
• Thoroughly investigates the incident to uncover inconsistencies or false allegations
• Protects your rights in custody and divorce proceedings affected by the DV charge
• Presents strong defenses, including self-defense or lack of intent

We fight to protect your freedom, reputation, and family relationships from the long-term harm a DV conviction can cause.

Defending yourself against a traffic ticket may seem straightforward, but it can be costly in time and money. Appearing in court often means:

• Taking time away from work and family
• Spending hours waiting for your case to be heard
• Risking unpaid leave or lost income

Even if you contest and lose, you’ll still pay the fine and the ticket will remain on your driving record—likely increasing insurance rates. Moving violations may also count toward license suspension under Washington’s updated laws.

Experienced attorneys bring specialized skills that can significantly improve your case outcome. They:

• Understand legal procedures and defenses
• Gather and review critical evidence
• Subpoena and cross-examine the citing officer
• Focus on the key legal issues that can get tickets dismissed or reduced

Without this expertise, many self-represented drivers struggle to effectively challenge a citation.

At ClifftopLaw, our attorneys have handled thousands of traffic infractions across Washington, including:

• Speeding
• No insurance or expired tabs
• Improper lane usage
• Negligent driving
• Signal violations
• Equipment violations
• Cell phone use while driving
• Noise or skateboarding violations

In most cases, one phone call is all it takes—we’ll handle everything from discovery to defense, often without you needing to take time off work.

In Washington, a hit-and-run involving an attended vehicle is a Gross Misdemeanor. This charge can lead to:

• Up to 1 year in jail
• Fines up to $5,000
• 1-year driver’s license suspension

State law requires the driver to stop, move to a safe location, remain at the scene, and provide their name, address, insurance, license plate, and driver’s license number. Failure to meet these obligations results in criminal charges and DMV penalties.

A hit-and-run involving an unattended vehicle or other property is a Simple Misdemeanor, carrying:

• Up to 90 days in jail
• Fines up to $1,000

Drivers must stop, locate the owner, and provide their name and address, or leave a written notice in a visible place. While there is no automatic license suspension, insurance rates may increase—and commercial drivers risk CDL disqualification for both attended and unattended offenses.

At ClifftopLaw, we have extensive experience defending hit-and-run cases. Our approach often includes:

• Negotiating Pre-Trial Diversion Agreements
• Pursuing a Compromise of Misdemeanor for dismissal
• Challenging the state’s evidence to reduce or dismiss charges

We offer free consultations and can often resolve cases without a conviction—helping you protect your record, license, and future.

A DUI case in Washington moves through several stages:

• Arraignment: Judge explains the charges and sets release conditions
• Pretrial Hearings: Negotiations and preparation for trial
• Motions/Evidentiary Hearings: Challenges to the state’s evidence
• Readiness Hearing: Final conference before trial
• Trial: Either a jury trial or bench trial
• Sentencing: Penalties imposed if convicted or plea accepted

Each stage presents opportunities to negotiate or fight the charges—having an experienced DUI attorney is essential.

DUI defense often involves filing motions to suppress evidence, question the arresting officer, or challenge procedural errors. Strategies may include:

• Negotiating a reduction to Reckless or Negligent Driving
• Seeking “delayed dismissal” agreements
• Challenging field sobriety test results
• Disputing breath or blood test accuracy

Motions and evidentiary hearings allow the defense to cross-examine prosecution witnesses and present favorable evidence before trial.

At ClifftopLaw, we guide clients through every phase of the DUI process. Our team:

• Explains each stage of your case so you can make informed decisions
• Identifies weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence
• Negotiates for reduced charges or alternative sentencing
• Provides skilled representation at trial if needed

A DUI conviction can mean jail time, license suspension, heavy fines, and increased insurance rates. We work to protect your record, your driving privileges, and your future.