Earlier this Spring, House Bill 1041 was unanimously passed by the Washington State Legislature. Governor Inslee followed their lead and signed the Bill in May. Amid much fanfare from the criminal defense bar, the new law shall become effective in late July. The Bill contains some very interesting changes to the qualifications for vacating a person’s criminal history, whether it is for a felony or a misdemeanor conviction(s). These changes include, but are not per se limited to: (1) streamlining the arduous process for obtaining a certificate of discharge; (2) removing the requirement that wait times be tied to certificates of discharge (3) removing the prohibition on vacating more than one misdemeanor conviction; and (4) allowing vacations for certain types of assault convictions. The changes will expand the eligibility requirements for post-conviction relief related to criminal history and the records maintained thereto. Ultimately, it is hoped that this Bill will help people with employment opportunities and housing opportunities, which in the past have been curtailed because of that person’s blemished record.
If you are a loved one is cited or charged with a crime, it is a very smart idea to immediately hire a qualified Seattle Criminal Defense Lawyer. The Seattle Criminal Defense Attorneys that make up the criminal defense team of SQ Attorneys are highly qualified and reputable Seattle Criminal Lawyers that are dedicated to providing top notch, aggressive representation for those arrested or charged for crime all across Western Washington and the Greater Puget Sound region. The team creates success by working with law enforcement and the prosecuting attorney’s office to ensure that all facts and circumstances related to the allegations are considered in creating the fairest, most equitable and just resolution possible in light of all the surrounding circumstances of the given case. So, whether you are cited with an infraction or arrested and/or charged with misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor or a felony, protect yourself … call SQ Attorneys at (206) 441-0900.
