Criminal Defense Information Center

Being charged with a criminal offense is a serious matter which can have life-changing consequences. Understanding your situation, along with your rights and options and how best to handle your case is vital. At the Matto Law Firm, PLLC you will find a dedicated criminal defense attorney with the highest standards of legal advocacy. The firm is devoted to the practice of criminal defense solely, which means that your attorney does not engage in any other area of law. This single concentration results in a strong command of the laws, legal procedures, court systems and personnel that process these types of cases.

To learn more about the various types of criminal cases the firm takes on and to understand how the Seattle criminal defense lawyer at the firm can assist you, please review the following information. By clicking on the highlighted areas, you will be directed to additional pages with more details about a specific topic.

Practice Areas

DUI
Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense in the state of Washington which can lead to jail time, heavy financial penalties, loss of driving privileges, the mandatory use of an ignition interlock device, and possible alcohol or drug abuse treatment.

Infraction Defense
Being pulled over by law enforcement for a traffic offense, whether it is for speeding, reckless driving, or some other moving violation can be a very unpleasant experience and can lead to heavy fines and increase in your auto insurance rates. By simply paying your traffic ticket, you are essentially pleading guilty.

Theft Crimes
Common theft crimes in Washington include shoplifting, embezzlement, possession of stolen property, burglary, robbery, and theft in the first, second, and third degree. Being convicted of a theft crime can have serious ramifications for your future, which is why you should take immediate action to retain a qualified attorney.

Drug Charges
Drug offenses in Washington can range from simple possession of marijuana to serious felonies involving the sale and distribution of controlled substances such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, and unauthorized prescription drugs. Many penalties may follow a drug conviction, including jail time, heavy fines, loss of federal funding benefits, and more.

Sex Crimes
Being accused and convicted of a sex crime can be one of the most serious and life-altering events an individual will ever experience. Sex crimes range from sexual assault and battery to child pornography, forcible rape, luring minors, and similar crimes which may result in the most severe penalties.

Felonies and Misdemeanors
Criminal charges are broken down into misdemeanors, which are less serious, and felonies, with varying degrees of seriousness. Misdemeanor convictions are generally punished by a jail sentence of up to less than a year while felonies are punishable by prison sentences of a year or more.

Getting the Legal Help You Need

In any criminal case, the sooner you seek qualified legal help, the better off you will be. With the help of an experienced and capable attorney, such as Seattle criminal defense attorney Jag Matto, you will better understand where you stand, your legal options, and the best way to proceed within the criminal justice system. In many cases, the quality of the legal representation you retain can have a major impact on how your future will be affected. By contacting the firm for a free, initial consultation you can take a proactive step in fighting the charges against you – and any harsh consequences they may pose.