Consequences of a Misdemeanor Conviction in Washington

A conviction for a criminal offense in the State of Washington can have long lasting effects that go beyond jail time.

If you plead guilty or are found guilty of a criminal offense, the immediate things that can result are some sort of sanction such as jail time or electronic home monitoring, fines, and probation.

Additionally, the plea form itself may disclose certain "other consequences." Some convictions will result in a suspension of your driver's license and/or commercial driver's license. Some will result in a requirement to obtain an ignition interlock or other alcohol/drug testing. Some will require you to submit a sample of your DNA for filing. Some will cause you to lose your firearm rights. Some may cause you to lose State and Federal benefits such as financial aid.

Maybe convictions also have important immigration ramifications for non-U.S. citizens.

Some potential consequences that are typically not listed in a plea form are that a conviction may result in inadmissibility to Canada and other countries. Also, that you may have to list the conviction on job, school, and housing applications which can negatively impact your ability to get those things.

It is important for anyone charged with a crime to consult a criminal defense attorney and to be sure to ask about collateral consequences and to be prepared not just for the immediate consequences, but also the long lasting ones.