Misdemeanor Criminal Defense

Seattle, Washington Misdemeanor Criminal Defense Attorney

Misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors are thought of as minor offenses when compared to felonies. However, since a misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor conviction can result in jail time and the loss of important rights, we know that most clients view them as anything but minor.  We certainly take them seriously.

Under Washington law, a misdemeanor is any crime punishable by imprisonment in jail for up to ninety days and/or a fine of up to $1,000. A gross misdemeanor carries a jail term of up to one year and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

In addition to the jail sentence and the fine, a conviction for certain misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors could result in:

  • loss of your right to own or possess firearms;
  • being required to undergo mental health, drug or alcohol treatment;
  • loss of your driver's license;
  • deportation or exclusion from the United States, if you are not a citizen;
  • loss of  your job;
  • disciplinary sanctions, if you are a professional licensed by the state;
  • and/or placement on court supervision.

Michael Iaria began his career almost thirty years ago defending misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor cases as a legal intern in Seattle Municipal Court.  After entering private practice, he continued to handle these cases.  His practice has evolved over the years into one in which he generally handles more complicated cases, but he has continued to handle misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor cases in courts throughout Western Washington, and will represent clients throughout the state.  Because these cases can have serious consequences and can be complex, his typical thorough and exhaustive approach can produce substantial benefits for his clients.  However, he also has the judgment to work with his clients on simpler approaches when that is what the case calls for.  Because he does not have a high volume (and therefore high turnover) practice, he is not locked or pressured into any particular approach. Rather, he works with his clients to devise the best client-specific and case-specific approach.

He also assist clients who want to vacate and remove old misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor convictions from their record.