Most parents first hear the phrase teen dating violence from a police officer or a school administrator, not from a statute. What Washington actually does with that accusation is narrower and more procedural than the phrase suggests. Generally, the case goes to juvenile court. The domestic violence label attaches only when specific relationship and age […]
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Juveniles and Reckless Endangerment: Special Considerations
Reckless endangerment is a serious criminal charge in Washington State. A conviction could result in fines, jail time, and other penalties. If a juvenile is charged with reckless endangerment, the criminal record could have life-long consequences. Our Seattle criminal defense attorney discusses special considerations parents need to know if their child is charged with reckless […]
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Is It Illegal for an 18-Year-Old to Sext with a 17-Year-Old?
Yes, it is illegal for an 18-year-old to sext with a 17-year-old in Washington State. It does not matter if the 17-year-old participates willingly in the sexting because a 17-year-old is a minor. An 18-year-old is an adult. Sexting with a minor can be a felony that can carry a prison sentence of 10 years […]
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Charged as an Adult vs. Charged as a Juvenile: How Judges Decide
The justice system for adults in Washington has the goal of punishing offenders found guilty of crimes. However, the goal of the Juvenile Justice System in Washington is to provide treatment for the rehabilitation of minors found guilty of a crime. Thus, the punishments in juvenile court are less severe for many of the same […]
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