Washington Crimes: Laws & Penalties

Washington Criminal Statute of Limitations

Statutes of limitations set time limits for criminal charges to be brought in a case. In Washington, some crimes—like a capital felony for murder—have no time limit and can be prosecuted at any time.

Washington Misdemeanor Crimes by Class and Sentences

In Washington, misdemeanors are crimes punishable by up to one year in county or local jail and are classified as misdemeanors or gross misdemeanors. (Wash. Rev. Code Ann. § 9A.20.010.) More serious crimes (felonies) are punishable by state prison terms.

Washington Felony Crimes by Class and Sentences

Learn the felony sentencing rules in the State of Washington, as well as the maximum prison sentences and fines for different types of felonies.

Expunging or Sealing Adult Criminal Records in Washington

Your criminal record may be expunged -- that is, erased or sealed -- under the circumstances described below. In Washington, the process of expunging or sealing a criminal conviction is called "vacating a judgment."

Washington Public Intoxication Laws

In Washington, public intoxication is also known as a "drunk and disorderly." Being charged with public intoxication means that you must be behaving in a manner that disturbs the peace or endangers yourself or others. A first offense normally carries a penalty of a night in jail until sober and a fine.

Can I Grow Marijuana for My Own Personal Use in Washington?

Washington state permits certain recreational marijuana use by adults 21 and older. However, growing cannabis for personal use is not allowed except for qualifying medical marijuana patients.

Theft and Shoplifting Laws and Penalties in Washington State

Washington state's theft statute covers a broad range of prohibited conduct, including larceny, embezzlement, shoplifting, and possession of stolen property. Serious theft convictions can result in substantial incarceration time and large fines.

Auto Theft Laws in Washington

Like many states, a conviction for motor vehicle theft or a related crime in Washington can result in a lengthy prison sentence and hefty fines.

Stun Gun Laws in Washington

You can buy a stun gun or Taser without a permit in Washington State, but there may be restrictions on where and how you use it.

Cyberbullying and Cyberstalking Laws in Washington

A person who commits cyberbullying or cyberstalking in Washington can face serious criminal penalties, including substantial incarceration time and hefty fines.

Washington Assault & Battery Laws

In Washington, a person commits the crime of simple assault (also called assault in the fourth degree), a misdemeanor, by hitting, touching, or attempting to injure another; or intentionally placing another in fear of injury by some physical act.

Washington Domestic Violence Laws

The domestic violence Washington state laws require that any law enforcement office who responds to an incident of domestic violence make an arrest if there is probable cause that an offense was committed. If it appears that both parties are guilty of assault, the primary aggressor will be arrested and booked into county jail.

Prostitution, Pimping, and Pandering Laws in Washington

Washington has laws against buying, selling, or profiting from the sale of sex. It is also a crime in Washington to pimp or “promote” prostitution, to sell travel services knowing they will be used to patronize prostitutes, and to permit prostitution in a building that you rent, own, or reside in.

Washington Sexting Laws for Teens and Minors

Washington punishes sexting images of minors under its laws against sexual exploitation of children.

Transmitting an STD in Washington

In Washington, people who know that they are infected with HIV or another sexually transmitted disease (STD) can be convicted of a crime if they expose others to the disease.

Washington Statutory Rape Laws

What is the age of consent in Washington state? What crimes and laws cover statutory rape offenses and does Washington have Romeo-and-Juliet laws?