Seattle Criminal Lawyer
Frequently Asked Questions about Criminal Defense
Q: Do I need a Seattle criminal defense lawyer's help if I am accused of a crime?
A: Yes. If you have been accused of any criminal offense, it is in your best interest to consult a Seattle criminal defense lawyer immediately. Our skilled Bellevue criminal defense attorneys will defend your legal and constitutional rights and prepare a unique defense for your particular criminal matter.
Q: Is it a criminal offense to unsuccessfully attempt to commit a crime?
A: It depends on factors pertaining to the situation, as well as the law of the jurisdiction. In an event in which a person who intends to commit a crime makes a substantial effort to perpetrate it, but does not completely commit the crime, he or she may be guilty of attempting to commit the crime, which is a crime in itself.
Q: What is the role of the grand jury?
A: The United States Constitution requires the Federal government to assemble a grand jury to decide whether it would be appropriate to accuse the defendant of a serious crime. While the grand jury must review evidence and hear case related testimony, the jury DOES NOT make the decision of whether or not the defendant is guilty or innocent.
Q: What is the role of the prosecutor?
A: Also known as a District Attorney, County Attorney, City Attorney, United States Attorney and State Attorney, a prosecutor is the lawyer who represents the State, Federal, or local government in a case against a defendant. It is the prosecutor's duty to punish defendants who have been accused of committing crimes. It is the prosecutor's duty to fairly punish those who have committed crimes.
Q: Are probation and parole the same?
A: No. Probation is a criminal sentence which permits a person to remain in the community instead of serving a prison term. There are many conditions involved in granting probation, including reporting to a probation officer on a regular basis, not using drugs or alcohol, and not being involved in criminal activity. Parole has conditions which are similar to probation, but in this situation the prisoner is released from jail/prison under supervision and put back into society before their sentence has ended.
Q: What is restitution in the criminal context?
A: Part of a criminal sentence may include paying restitution to the victim and/or the victim's family for crime related loss, but this is dependant upon applicable State or Federal laws. Some examples of restitution include compensation for the following: property loss, property damage, rehabilitation expenses, medical expenses, funeral expenses, or lost income. One reason which restitution may be included in a criminal sentence is to have the defendant involved in improving the situation for the victim or the victim's family.
Q: What is white-collar crime, and what are some examples?
A: In general, a white collar crime is a crime which is non-violent in nature, and involves some type of financial, business or commercial fraud. Insider trading, bribery, tax evasion, larceny, perjury, forgery, and embezzlement are just a few types of white collar crimes.
Q: How are child and youth offenders prosecuted?
A: Minors who are accused of committing serious crimes are prosecuted differently than adults in a separate juvenile court system. Within the juvenile court system, rehabilitation is a main focus, made in an attempt to prevent children and youths from committing additional crimes. Depending upon the crime and certain factors, an adolescent may be tried as an adult, which if found guilty will result in very serious consequences.
DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.