I was pulled over for speeding in Snohomish County, Washington.: I was given a ticket for speeding. The location of infraction was on a road that is 100% inside Snohomish County. The ticket stated the location was King County and I have to go to court in King County. Is this proper procedure to have to go to King County for a Snohomish County infraction? Does the fact that the location is wrong on the ticket mean I can have this thrown out?
Scott's answer: King County does not have jurisdiction to hear a ticket case that occurred in Snohomish County. You must make sure that you have documentation to prove that the incident occurred in Snohomish County, such as a boundary map from the County Assessor. The court will not just take your word for it and will not look it up on Google maps for you.
Must I answer yes to life insurance application question about alcohol treatment when it was court ordered.: In 2007 in WA I was arrested for Physical Control because the cop thought I had the potential to drive intoxicated even though I was not driving the car. I entered into a deferred prosecution agreement where the court ordered that I attend a 2 year alcohol outpatient program which I completed. The life insurance application says "diagnosed, treated or advised to seek treatment for alcohol or substance abuse in the past 5 years". Do I have to answer yes to this question? If yes will it cause them to deny coverage? I have never been diagnosed by a doctor as having a problem with alcohol.
Scott's answer: You have been diagnosed by a Sate-certified substance abuse counselor as having a problem with alcohol. That is the only way you can qualify for a Deferred Prosecution. In addition, you had to admit that you are an alcoholic and ask the court to allow you to do treatment in lieu of a conviction. You can add this to the many reasons that a Deferred Prosecution is usually the wrong choice for first time DUI cases. I think you have to answer yes.
I am charged for theft misdemeanor at my work for an amount less than $500 cash. What are my options as a first timer?: 1) I have accepted my fault at work and i have been asked to return the cash. 2) Inspite of my coperation, they involved cops. I have not yet received court date. 3) Would it affect my green card? 4) Should i hire a lawyer?
Scott's answer: You will very likely receive charges and court date in the mail. A theft conviction can trigger deportation. A conviction will also make it very difficult for you to get another job. There may be options to resolve your case that don't involve a conviction or trigger deportation. You should hire a lawyer that understands both criminal law and the relevant immigration consequences.