Spokane Criminal Defense Attorneys
Providing Personal, Practical Representation
Findley & Silcher provides criminal defense representation for misdemeanor and felony matters in Spokane and surrounding Eastern Washington communities, including Deer Park, Liberty Lake, Airway Heights, and Mead. Our attorneys provide one-on-one guidance from the initial case review through resolution and help clients understand the charges, court process, available options, and next steps.
PAGE OVERVIEW
Being accused of a crime can turn an ordinary day into something much more complicated. Suddenly, you may be dealing with court dates, unfamiliar terminology, questions about your job or family, and uncertainty about what could happen next.
You do not have to figure out the criminal justice system on your own.
Findley & Silcher provides personal criminal defense representation for people facing misdemeanor and felony charges in Spokane and communities throughout the surrounding area, including Deer Park, Liberty Lake, Airway Heights, and Mead.
Our attorneys take the time to understand what happened, explain the legal process in plain language, and discuss the options available based on the facts of your case. From the first conversation through the resolution of your matter, our goal is to provide focused representation and help you make informed decisions about what comes next.
Criminal Defense Help When the Stakes Are High
A criminal charge can affect much more than an upcoming court date. Depending on the allegations and outcome of the case, there may be potential consequences involving employment, driving privileges, professional licensing, finances, family relationships, housing, and your criminal record.
It is also important to remember that being arrested, investigated, or charged with an offense is not the same as being convicted.
Every criminal case has its own facts. Evidence must be reviewed. Procedures matter. Witness accounts may differ. Police reports may not tell the complete story. Legal issues may arise regarding how evidence was obtained or whether the prosecution can prove each required element of the alleged offense.
That is why Findley & Silcher does not approach criminal defense as a one-size-fits-all process.
Our attorneys work to understand your concerns, the circumstances surrounding the allegations, your history, and what matters most to you when evaluating possible strategies and outcomes.
Criminal law covers a wide range of allegations, from lower-level misdemeanor offenses to serious felony charges. The information below provides a starting point for understanding common types of criminal cases.
DUI and Driving-Related Criminal Charges
Driving under the influence and other criminal traffic allegations can create both immediate and longer-term concerns involving the court system, driving privileges, insurance, employment, and other responsibilities.
The circumstances of a traffic stop, testing procedures, officer observations, prior history, and other evidence can all affect how a case is evaluated.
Domestic Violence-Related Charges
In Washington, the domestic violence designation may be attached to certain criminal allegations when the people involved have a qualifying relationship.
These cases can become especially complicated because criminal charges may occur alongside no-contact orders, housing changes, parenting concerns, or related family law matters.
An attorney can help explain the criminal process, existing court orders, and the potential consequences of the allegations.
Reckless Driving and Other Traffic Offenses
Some traffic allegations are more serious than ordinary infractions and can result in criminal proceedings.
Charges such as reckless driving and other criminal traffic offenses may have consequences extending beyond a simple traffic ticket, including possible effects on a driver's license and criminal record.
Theft and Property-Related Charges
Theft and property-related allegations can include a wide range of conduct and may be charged at different levels depending on the circumstances.
Cases may involve disputed ownership, intent, property value, identification issues, witness statements, surveillance or other records, and additional evidence that requires careful review.
Drug-Related Criminal Charges
Drug-related cases can involve allegations concerning possession, distribution, manufacturing, or other violations of Washington law.
These cases may raise important questions about the alleged substance, possession, searches, seizures, statements, and other evidence collected during an investigation.
Assault Charges
Washington recognizes different levels and classifications of assault depending on the allegations and circumstances involved.
Because the severity and potential consequences of an assault case can vary significantly, it is important to understand exactly what has been charged and what evidence the prosecution intends to rely upon.
Probation and Post-Conviction Matters
Legal issues do not always end when the original criminal case concludes.
Questions may later arise involving probation compliance, alleged violations, warrants, legal financial obligations, or whether an older conviction may qualify for vacation under Washington law.
Eligibility and available options depend on the type of conviction and individual circumstances.
No-Contact Order and Court Order Violations
Criminal cases sometimes involve allegations that someone violated a no-contact order or another court order.
These situations can become complicated quickly, particularly when the people involved share a home, children, property, or other ongoing responsibilities.
Understanding exactly what an order permits and prohibits is important when responding to an alleged violation.
Misdemeanor and Felony Charges in Washington
Washington criminal offenses can be classified as misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, or felonies.
MISDEMEANOR CHARGES
A misdemeanor is generally the lowest of these criminal classifications, but that does not mean it should be treated casually. Under Washington law, a misdemeanor can carry a potential maximum jail sentence of up to 90 days and a fine of up to $1,000.
A gross misdemeanor can carry a potential maximum sentence of up to 364 days in county jail and a fine of up to $5,000.
FELONY CHARGES
Felonies are categorized as Class A, Class B, or Class C offenses and carry more significant potential penalties. The actual consequences in any criminal case depend on the charge, applicable law, criminal history, sentencing rules, and resolution of the case.
The name or classification of a charge is only the beginning of the analysis. Understanding the evidence and circumstances behind the allegation is equally important.
A Criminal Charge Deserves Individual Attention
A criminal case is not just a case number to the person living through it.
Findley & Silcher is a smaller Spokane law firm built around one-on-one attorney involvement. We believe clients should understand what is happening in their case and have the opportunity to ask questions throughout the process.
That begins with listening.
Before determining an appropriate strategy, our attorneys seek to understand what happened from your perspective, what evidence is available, whether there are prior criminal matters that may affect the case, and what outcomes are particularly important to you.
Depending on the circumstances, representation may involve reviewing police reports and other evidence, identifying legal or factual issues, communicating with prosecutors, evaluating proposed resolutions, preparing motions, negotiating when appropriate, and preparing for hearings or trial.
The appropriate approach depends on the case.
Throughout the process, our goal is to provide:
- Direct communication with your legal team
- Plain-language explanations of the criminal court process
- Careful review of the allegations and available evidence
- A strategy based on the individual facts of the case
- Realistic discussions about available options
- Preparation for negotiations, hearings, or trial when necessary
- Respectful representation without unnecessary judgment
Facing a criminal accusation can already feel isolating. Your attorney should make the legal process easier to understand, not more confusing. This is our promise: clarity, compassion, and a clear path forward.
Criminal Defense Representation Across the Spokane Area
Findley & Silcher represents clients in Spokane and surrounding Eastern Washington communities, including Deer Park, Liberty Lake, Airway Heights, Mead, and other areas throughout Spokane County.
Where a criminal case is heard can depend on the type of charge and where the alleged offense occurred.
Misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor cases are generally handled through courts of limited jurisdiction, such as district or municipal courts. Felony criminal matters in Spokane County are handled through Spokane County Superior Court.
Having attorneys familiar with the Spokane-area legal system can help clients understand where their matter is proceeding, what court documents mean, and what may happen next.
Our Spokane office provides a local place to begin that conversation for people throughout the surrounding region.
PROCESS & EXPECTATIONS
What Happens After Criminal Charges Are Filed?
The precise process varies depending on the charge, court, circumstances, and whether someone was arrested or received a summons.
However, many criminal cases move through several common stages.
When Should You Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney?
You do not necessarily need to wait until a case reaches an advanced stage before speaking with an attorney.
Consider requesting legal guidance if:
You have been arrested
You received a criminal citation or summons
You have been served with charging documents
You have an upcoming arraignment or criminal hearing
Police or investigators have contacted you about an alleged offense
You are facing a misdemeanor or felony charge
A no-contact or other criminal court order has been entered
You have questions about probation or an alleged violation
You are concerned that an existing criminal case could affect your employment or professional responsibilities
You want to know whether an older Washington conviction may qualify to be vacated
You simply do not understand what the paperwork you received means
Speaking with an attorney early can help you understand the process and identify decisions or deadlines that may require attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Criminal Defense in Washington
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What should I do if I have been charged with a crime in Washington?
Start by carefully reviewing any citation, summons, charging document, release condition, or court notice you received so that you know about upcoming court appearances and requirements. You may also want to speak with a criminal defense attorney who can review the specific allegations and explain the legal process.
Avoid making assumptions about what will happen based solely on the name of the charge. Criminal cases depend on the applicable law, evidence, history, and individual circumstances.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Washington?
Washington law divides criminal offenses into misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, and felonies. A misdemeanor may carry up to 90 days in jail and a maximum $1,000 fine. A gross misdemeanor may carry up to 364 days in jail and a maximum $5,000 fine.
Felonies are divided into Class A, Class B, and Class C offenses and may carry substantially greater potential penalties.
The actual sentence in a particular case is not automatically the statutory maximum and depends on multiple factors.
What happens at an arraignment in Washington?
An arraignment is an early stage of a criminal case where the accused appears before the court and enters a plea to the criminal charge. The court may also address issues relevant to the person's release and future proceedings. The exact procedure can vary by court and case, so defendants should carefully review their court paperwork and speak with their attorney about what to expect.
Do I need an attorney for a misdemeanor charge?
A misdemeanor is still a criminal offense and may potentially affect a person's record, employment, licensing, finances, or other parts of life. Whether you choose private counsel, qualify for appointed counsel, or represent yourself is an individual decision, but it can be helpful to understand the possible consequences and available options before resolving a criminal charge.
Can criminal charges be dismissed?
Criminal charges can sometimes be dismissed, but dismissal is never automatic.
The outcome of a case may depend on the available evidence, legal issues, witness information, negotiations, court rulings, and other circumstances. A defense attorney can evaluate whether there are factual or legal issues that may affect whether the prosecution can continue with or prove the charge.
Will I go to jail if I am charged with a crime?
Being charged with an offense does not automatically mean someone will receive a jail sentence. Potential consequences depend on many factors, including the offense, criminal history, applicable sentencing rules, the facts of the case, and how the matter is ultimately resolved.
An attorney reviewing the specific charge and case history can provide more meaningful information than a general online prediction.
How long does a criminal case take in Spokane?
There is no single timeline that applies to every criminal case. The length of the case can depend on whether it involves a misdemeanor or felony, the amount of evidence, legal motions, negotiations, court scheduling, whether the case goes to trial, and other circumstances. Some matters resolve relatively quickly, while contested or complex cases can take considerably longer.
Where are criminal cases handled in Spokane County?
The appropriate court depends in part on the type of offense and jurisdiction involved. Spokane County identifies misdemeanor offenses as matters generally handled by courts of limited jurisdiction, including district or municipal courts. Felony criminal matters proceed through Spokane County Superior Court. Your charging documents or hearing notice should identify the court handling your specific case.
Can a criminal conviction be removed from my record in Washington?
Certain Washington criminal convictions may qualify to be vacated when the legal requirements are satisfied.
Vacating a conviction is different from completely erasing every court record associated with the case. Eligibility depends on factors including the type of conviction, criminal history, how much time has passed, and whether other statutory requirements have been met. An attorney can help determine whether a particular conviction may qualify for post-conviction relief.
What should I bring to a criminal defense consultation?
Bring whatever documents you currently have related to the matter. Helpful information may include:
- Charging documents
- Citations or summonses
- Court hearing notices
- Release paperwork
- No-contact or other court orders
- Police reports you have received
- Prior court documents that may be relevant
- A basic timeline of what occurred
- A list of questions you want answered
Do not delay asking for legal advice simply because you do not yet have every document connected with the case.
Start With a Conversation
A criminal charge can make the future feel uncertain. Getting clear information about the allegations and legal process can make the next step easier to understand. Findley & Silcher provides personal criminal defense representation to clients in Spokane, Deer Park, Liberty Lake, Airway Heights, Mead, and surrounding Eastern Washington communities. Our attorneys will listen to what happened, review your situation, and help you understand the options available based on the facts of your case.
Talk With a Spokane Criminal Defense Attorney
Tell us a little about your situation and how you would prefer to be contacted. Please do not submit confidential documents or highly sensitive information through the initial inquiry form. Submitting this form does not create an attorney-client relationship. Representation begins only after the firm confirms acceptance of the matter and a written agreement has been completed.
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Reviewed for legal accuracy by Matthew Bopp, Esq. | Last reviewed September 30, 2026
General Information Disclaimer: This page provides general information about criminal law in Washington and is not legal advice. Criminal charges, procedures, defenses, penalties, and outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case, current Washington law, and applicable court rules. Reading this page or contacting Findley & Silcher does not create an attorney-client relationship.