Criminal Defense Lawyer in Des Moines

Working with a criminal defense lawyer in Des Moines at Puget Law Group gives you legal guidance on the accusation, the evidence, and your available options. We explain court requirements and prepare your defense at every stage.

Puget Law Group represents people facing criminal investigations, misdemeanor charges, and serious felony allegations in Des Moines, Washington. Our team includes 13 attorneys, including nine former DUI prosecutors.

Whether you have received a citation or been contacted by investigators, you can seek advice before responding. Call us for a free consultation to discuss the allegation and how we can help.

Protecting Your Rights After an Arrest

Keep the documents you receive after an arrest and note any court dates or deadlines. If you are unsure what a document requires, seek legal guidance. Missing a required court appearance may lead to a warrant.

Before discussing the allegations with investigators, clearly state that you wish to remain silent and speak with an attorney. Continue to follow lawful instructions. Puget Law Group can advise you about responding to questions and any identifying information you must provide.

Avoid discussing the case on social media or asking other people to contact a witness on your behalf. If a court has issued a no-contact order, follow its terms even if the other person initiates contact. Only the court can change that order.

Criminal Charges Our Des Moines Criminal Defense Lawyers Handle

Puget Law Group defends clients against a range of criminal allegations. Our Des Moines criminal defense lawyers review the alleged conduct, applicable Washington law, and evidence supporting each charge. Our primary criminal practice areas include:

• Des Moines assault lawyer: An assault defense may involve disputed accounts of physical contact or the use of force. We review recordings, injuries, and witness statements to determine whether the evidence supports the charge or a defense such as self-defense.
• Des Moines sex crimes lawyer: We assess the accusation against the requirements of the specific statute. Our attorneys also explain any potential registration obligations and sentencing provisions that apply to the charged offense.
• Des Moines DUI lawyer: Our nine former DUI prosecutors bring experience reviewing how DUI cases are investigated and charged. We examine officer observations, testing procedures, and any separate driver’s license proceedings.
• Des Moines drug crimes lawyer: How police found a substance and connected it to you can affect your defense. We investigate search procedures and whether the prosecution can prove the possession, delivery, or other conduct alleged.

For serious felony cases, our firm has a dedicated “strike” team to handle your defense.

How Criminal Cases Proceed in Des Moines

Des Moines Municipal Court handles misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor cases within its jurisdiction. Felony prosecutions proceed in superior court. Your court paperwork should identify where you must appear; confirm the location and attendance instructions before each hearing.

At early hearings, the court addresses the allegations, your plea, and conditions of release. Those conditions may restrict travel or contact with others while the case is pending. Puget Law Group explains what the orders require and whether you can request changes.

As the case progresses, discovery lets the defense review evidence the prosecution discloses, subject to court rules. Proceedings may include motions, negotiations, and trial. We explain each stage and prepare you for decisions that require your participation.

How Our Des Moines Criminal Defense Attorneys Review Evidence

An accusation is not proof. Under RCW 9A.04.100, the prosecution must prove every element of a crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Our Des Moines criminal defense attorneys compare the allegations with police reports, recordings, witness accounts, and physical or digital records.

Testing the Allegations

Timing, identification, and inconsistencies between accounts can affect what the prosecution can establish. Evidence may also support an explanation that was not included in the initial report. At Puget Law Group, we investigate those issues before advising you about a proposed resolution.

Challenging Improperly Obtained Evidence

We examine whether a stop, search, or other investigative action complied with the law. If the facts support it, we may ask the court to exclude the evidence. A legal challenge does not automatically result in dismissal; its effect depends on the court’s ruling and the remaining evidence.

Consequences of a Criminal Conviction

Potential penalties depend on the offense, the facts established, and your criminal history. A conviction can result in incarceration, fines, supervision, or treatment requirements. It may also affect employment, housing, professional licensing, and other opportunities.

At Puget Law Group, we discuss these consequences when evaluating defense options. We should assess any proposed agreement for its impact on your future, including obligations that continue after sentencing.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, tell us before deciding how to resolve the charge. A conviction can carry immigration consequences, and you may need advice from an immigration attorney alongside your criminal defense representation.

Plea Offers and Trial Options

Before accepting a proposed resolution, you should understand the charge, the evidence, and the offer’s terms. A guilty plea may carry consequences not apparent from a brief court description.

Depending on the case, we may challenge evidence, negotiate with the prosecutor, assess eligibility for diversion, or prepare for trial. Eligibility for an alternative depends on the charge, your circumstances, and program requirements. Puget Law Group explains your options and what each would require.

You decide whether to plead guilty. We advise you on the prosecution’s evidence, available defenses, and sentencing risks so you can decide with a clear understanding of your options.

Puget Law Group’s Experience and Credentials

You can learn more about our attorneys and their backgrounds on the Puget Law Group About page. Our firm’s experience includes:

• 13 attorneys: Our 13-attorney team at Puget Law Group represents clients in criminal defense and personal injury cases.
• Prosecution experience: Nine attorneys at Puget Law Group previously worked as DUI prosecutors, giving our team insight into how prosecutors evaluate evidence.
• 150 combined years in practice: Puget Law Group’s attorneys apply 150 years of combined legal experience when advising clients and case preparation.
• Professional leadership: Our attorney Dawn Farina served as president of the Tacoma-Pierce County Bar Association.
• Professionalism recognition: Our attorney Casey Arbenz received the Washington State Bar Association Young Lawyers Section’s Professionalism Award in 2012.

Schedule a Free Criminal Defense Consultation

To get started, share any citation, charging document, court notice, or release paperwork you have. Tell us about upcoming hearings and court-ordered restrictions so we can address the requirements that need attention first.

You can also contact us before charges are filed. A criminal defense attorney in Des Moines can discuss the investigation and advise you before you give a statement. Call Puget Law Group to schedule your free consultation.