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Asked 9 months ago - Lacey, WA
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I am in Washington State and served 150 days out of 194 day maximum of a suspended sentence on a first time gross misdemeanor with no bail. I was not allowed to speak at my hearing, no evidence was allowed, and my accuser was not present. I would have brought up these issues at the hearing, but I was not allowed to speak.
I know that I am not afforded the same rights to a speedy trial in this case, but can I be held for 150 days out of a maximum 194 day suspended sentence? Isn't there some limit?
What rights do I have when arrested and awaiting a hearing to revoke a suspended sentence, and where can I read about them and reference them?
Certainly some legally guaranteed minimal due process is afforded to those returned to jail under these conditions.
It is hard to imagine that the court had a hearing at which a defendant could face a loss of liberty without an attorney being appointed on the defendant's behalf. While it may be that there was proof of a law violation that warranted revocation of a suspended sentence, you should have had counsel there to present your arguments. You should immediately contact an attorney in your area; it may be that there is a public defender's office in Lacey that can help.
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