Washington has legalized recreational marijuana, which means that there are many more drivers arrested and convicted for marijuana DUI now than there used to be. Police officers can find it difficult to determine whether to arrest a driver for marijuana DUI. Unlike with an alcohol-related DUI, there are very few tools that can be administered […]

Although recreational marijuana has been legalized in Washington, it is unlawful to drive while influenced by marijuana. Whether you are charged with an alcohol-related or marijuana DUI, it is important to consult a skillful attorney. The Tacoma DUI lawyers at Smith & White can help you fight your charge. We also can explain marijuana DUI […]

There are several ways that our Tacoma Criminal Defense Lawyers can work to get your case dismissed. These include: Lack of Probable Cause: If the police did not have a valid reason to stop, detain or arrest the defendant, the case may be dismissed. This could occur if the police did not have probable cause […]

A language barrier can be used as a defense in a DUI case in Washington State if the defendant can demonstrate that the barrier prevented them from understanding the consequences of their actions or the instructions given to them by law enforcement. This defense can be raised in several different contexts, such as: During the […]

It can be terrifying and humiliating to be arrested for the first time. When the police respond to an altercation between a husband and a wife or between other family members in a household, Washington law often requires them to arrest somebody. There are mandatory arrests for domestic violence in Washington when the police arrive […]

Assault charges in Tacoma, Washington, can have serious legal consequences. Whether you’re facing charges or trying to understand the legal landscape, it’s crucial to know the different degrees of assault, potential penalties, and defense strategies. Types of Assault Charges in Washington State Washington classifies assault into four degrees, each with varying levels of severity: First-Degree […]

Restoring firearm rights can be a complex and challenging process. Individuals who have lost their gun rights due to criminal convictions or mental health issues often face numerous obstacles when seeking to have those rights reinstated. Here, we explore some common challenges and provide tips to overcome them. Benefits of Restoring Your Gun Rights in […]

Under Tacoma and Washington law, domestic violence designations can significantly affect sentencing in criminal cases. The prosecution must produce adequate evidence to support domestic violence aggravating factors, including proof of an ongoing pattern of abuse over a prolonged period. As shown in a recent Washington case, if they fail to do so, the courts should […]

The Pierce County Court Resource Center (CRC) is designed to help individuals involved in the criminal justice system by offering free and low-cost services to support rehabilitation, compliance with court requirements, and successful reintegration into society. Many people who step into court every day—whether for a DUI, domestic violence charge, or other criminal matter—don’t realize […]

Why do law enforcement officers ask specific questions about strangulation in domestic violence cases? Strangulation is one of the most dangerous forms of domestic violence, often leaving little or no visible evidence while causing severe internal injuries or even delayed fatality. Officers are trained to ask pointed questions like, “Did the assailant put their hands […]