Skip to main content
Find a Lawyer

Find a Qualified Attorney Near You

Find a Qualified Attorney Near You

Search by legal issue and/or location

Enter information in one or both fields. (Required)

Washington Criminal Laws

Criminal law is enforced primarily at the state level. While the types of conduct criminalized don’t vary too much from state to state, how these laws are enforced often does.

Created by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and editors

| Last reviewed
Legally Reviewed

This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.

Fact-Checked

The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.

Washington criminal laws include provisions for violent crimes such as assault and battery, robbery, sexual assault, and the various types of homicide (from manslaughter to first-degree murder). Newer laws establish tough penalties for crimes such as identity theft, computer crimes, and other modern-day forms of fraud. The following articles will help you make sense of Washington criminal laws. Speak with a Washington criminal defense attorney if you have additional questions.

Learn About Washington Criminal Laws

  • Washington Credit Card Fraud Laws

    The basic provisions of Washington credit card fraud laws, which include such offenses as making false statements to obtain a credit card and the use of forged or expired cards.

  • Washington DUI Laws

    Summary of Washington DUI (driving under the influence) laws,which include criminal penalties, administrative license suspensions, ignition interlock devices, and where to go for more information..

  • Washington Insurance Fraud Laws

    Insurance fraud is committed by individuals from all walks of life. Read on to learn about the different types of insurance fraud in Washington including possible civil and criminal penalties.

  • Washington Domestic Violence Laws

    Overview of Washington’s domestic violence laws, including the legal grounds for charging defendants with the crime, penalties and sentences for offenders, information for victims, and links to related resources.

  • Washington Manslaughter Laws

    The basics of how Washington criminal prosecutors charge the crime of manslaughter, including first-degree, second-degree and vehicular manslaughter. Information on common sentencing provisions and where to go for more information.

  • Washington Rape and Sexual Assault Laws

    Primer on rape and sexual assault laws in the state of Washington, including the definition of the crime, how it is charged, penalties, and links to related content.

Washington Criminal Law Articles

Was this helpful?

Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?

  • Complex criminal defense situations usually require a lawyer
  • Defense attorneys can help protect your rights
  • A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties

Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Washington attorneys offer free consultations.

 

If you need an attorney, find one right now.

Popular Directory Searches

You Don’t Have To Solve This on Your Own – Get a Lawyer’s Help

Meeting with a lawyer can help you understand your options and how to best protect your rights. Visit our attorney directory to find a lawyer near you who can help.

Or contact an attorney near you:
SPONSORED

Next Steps

Contact a qualified attorney.

Enter information. (Required)

Find Help for These Areas:

Copied to clipboard