Senit M Lutgen's Answers

If i have a warrant in CA and get stopped in Seattle (say for speeding and they run my id) what will happen?

Most people with outstanding warrants seem to be arrested during traffic stops. Many times a person may not be aware that they even have a warrant. Think about how law enforcement can identify someone with a warrant. Typically they won't be identified merely by appearance, unless the charges are very serious. As such, in what scenarios is a person most likely to make contact with law enforcement where they check a person's identity? A Traffic stop! What will happen if someone with a...

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Criminal

Your inquiry cites the theft definition (RCW 9A.56.020). As such, it is not clear to what degree of theft you are inquiring about. Generally this type of crime has a three year statute of limitations for a felony theft charge. It may be helpful for you to determine the actual potential charge. You can determine this by reading RCW 9A.56.030, 9A.56.040, 9A.56.050, and others. You should consult with an attorney so that all factors may be properly addressed and considered. For example, if a...

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Vehicular assault maximum no prior

This is a very serious charge. Typically a charge like this will not be deferred or go into any type of diversion option. A factor that is important is whether there is an allegation of being under the influence. Being under the influence makes the punishment more harsh. Vehicular assault is a class B felony "violent traffic offense." Felony classes are as follows: "A" most serious; "B" serious, "C" generally the least serious. Then a charge can be tagged serious violent, violent, or...

Would a minor (17 year old) with a 4th Degree Assult / DV hinder a FBI background check for military enlistment?

In general the final disposition of the case matters more than the mere arrest. Was he convicted of 4th degree DV? There are many ways to settle a criminal charge short of an actual conviction. Don't assume--find out the actual resolution. If convicted of a domestic violence type crime a person generally loses their right to own or posses a firearm. To my knowledge the military will generally discharge personnel that lose their right to firearms. It seems logical that most branches...

Should a first time offense shoplifter get a defense lawyer in city of Spokane, WA

Yes you should always consult with an attorney. There are ways for you to resolve this offense short of pleading guilty. A theft charge in your profession can have serious consequences well beyond any court fines. If you are indigent the courts will generally appoint you a public defender (free of cost or for very minimal cost). At times (in Spokane anyway) you may be denied a public defender, because your financial worksheets will show that you own too much property. The problem is that...

I accidently broke a window on a train, and was arrested for criminal mischief 2. It's my first time arrested, do i need lawyer?

First, off I am not licensed in Oregon. However, you should get a lawyer. I'm going to guess that if you inquire you may even be eligible for a public defender (usually free or very low cost). Trying to handle your own case is almost always a huge mistake. Get some legal help. Many jurisdictions have options to avoid a criminal charge. For example, a sort of diversion plan that mandates that you do certain things (pay fines, stay out of trouble, take a class), and after a certain period...

What would happen or what should i do?

Voluntarily turning yourself in generally looks better than being arrested on a failure to appear warrant. A lawyer may be able to help you resolve your warrant issue in a manner that does not require you to turn yourself in. There are a few issues to consider before you take any action. First, if bail is set can you post it (afford it)? You may want to call a local criminal defense attorney who can give you some kind of idea as to the potential amount of bail that could be required. You...