Just because you lost your criminal trial does not mean you have to stop fighting. If there were problems in your trial (whether caused by the court, the prosecutor, or your own lawyer) you can appeal the conviction and seek reversal (and a new trial) or, in some cases, dismissal of your entire case. If you have lost your criminal trial, you have thirty days to appeal your case after you are sentenced, so you must act quickly. James has experience successfully appealing criminal convictions, and can discuss your options after trial.
Even after your criminal case is over, there still may be relief available to you. Personal Restraint Petitions give you the chance to challenge the legality of your conviction or sentence—typically within one year of the date that your initial appeal has concluded. You may also be eligible to vacate your prior convictions if you have completed all your sentence requirements. Contact James to discuss the specifics of your case and learn what relief may be available.
Sometimes, the government that is supposed to work for, and protect, the people ends up harming them. Fortunately, in Washington the people can push back and require the government to compensate for the damage it's caused. If you have been hurt by the police, the jail, or the prison, you may be able to hold the government accountable and receive compensation for the harm they have caused. These claims have Statutes of Limitation (typically two or three years, depending upon the claim) that require you to file a lawsuit within that timeframe, or you risk being barred from ever bringing that lawsuit. Contact us if your rights have been violated by a government employee, and James can discuss your possible options.