Seattle passed a law in 2023 aimed at reducing public drug use. Sadly, the law has had little to no impact. Why? Because the stated intent of getting those charged with low level drug crimes in Seattle into treatment has not come to fruition, according to the criminal defense bar. The government claims this sentiment is faulty because it fails to take into account those who were referred to treatment but not charged with a crime. The 2023 law allows the city of Seattle to prosecute misdemeanor drug possession and public drug use. However, the city claims that even if a case is charged for public drug possession/ use, the defendant is offered an alternative path to prosecution, wherein a participant agrees to meet with the court’s resource center for an assessment of their needs, including drug treatment. If successful, the participant is afforded the opportunity to have his/ her/ their case dismissed. Who is correct, the defense bar or the government? Tough to say, but to a discerning eye the streets in-and-around town sure don’t look much better in 2025.
If you or a loved one is in a bind as a result of criminal allegations (in Seattle or elsewhere), immediately contact a Seattle Criminal Attorney. A Seattle Criminal Defense Attorney is not going to judge you and understands that everyone makes mistakes. Hiring a Seattle Criminal Lawyer to help can – at a minimum – reduce penalties and can help direct people on how to best deal with their criminal charge, and many times even get them dismissed. So, it should go without saying that someone cited for a misdemeanor or felony should hire a qualified Seattle Criminal Lawyer as soon as possible. Criminal charges can cause havoc on a person’s personal and professional life. Anyone charged with a crime in Washington State should immediately seek the assistance of a seasoned Seattle Criminal Lawyer. SQ Attorneys can be reached at (425) 359-3791 and/or (206) 441-0900.
