Monthly Archives: April 2018

Right to Counsel – 6th Amendment

A criminal defendant’s right to an attorney is found in the Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which requires the “assistance of counsel” for the accused in all criminal prosecutions. This means that a defendant has a constitutional right to be represented by an attorney during every aspect of a criminal proceeding from the arraignment… Continue Reading »

Hearsay Rule Explained

One of the most common objections used in a criminal trial is the rule against hearsay. The rule against hearsay is complex and full of exceptions. Hearsay is an out of court statement, made in court, to prove the truth of the matter asserted. In other words, hearsay is evidence of a statement that was… Continue Reading »

A Cannabis Culture Holiday

It is April 20, 2018, and that means one thing – “4/20”, a cannabis culture holiday of sorts, is upon us. It hasn’t gone unnoticed by law enforcement either. The King County Sheriff’s Office is letting it be known – emphasis patrols will be on the lookout for impaired drivers; extra deputies in southeast King… Continue Reading »

Rights – Know Them, Exercise Them

Certainly no one ever wants to have an encounter with a police officer when his red and blue lights are flashing. These are pretty colors to be sure, just not when atop a police cruiser. But if ever in such a situation, you should be aware of your rights, and don’t be shy … exercise… Continue Reading »

A Defendant’s Right to a Trial by Jury

One of the most important constitutional rights a defendant has is the right to have a jury of his or her own peers decide whether they are guilty or innocent of an alleged crime. Taking a case to trial is a risky proposition for those participating, especially for the criminal defendant involved in the case.… Continue Reading »

DNA Evidence Explained

The attorneys at SQ Attorneys handle a broad range of cases from simple misdemeanor offenses to serious felony matters. DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) evidence is an important aspect to many serious felony offenses such as murder and/or rape charges. Many have heard of DNA, and may have a basic understanding, but what exactly is DNA? DNA… Continue Reading »

Probative/ Prejudicial – Evidence Rules

In criminal trials although some evidence may be relevant it may also be unfairly prejudicial. If the evidence is deemed more prejudicial than probative, the court is required to exclude it. Procedurally the court balances the probative value of the evidence against the risk that it is too prejudicial; if the court finds that the… Continue Reading »

Probation Instead of Jail

So you have just been placed on probation? Has your lawyer advised you on what probation is and what will be required of you? Probation is the suspension of a jail sentence that allows a person convicted of a crime a chance to remain in the community, instead of going to jail. Active probation requires… Continue Reading »