Cutting Edge Criminal Defense Throughout The Puget Sound
Stephen Ritchie, winner of the Anthony Savage Award from the Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, is ready to take on complex and serious cases in both State and Federal court.
THE RITCHIE FIRM
DO YOU NEED A CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY?
Most people believe that the criminal justice system is designed to protect the innocent and that they can navigate the initial stages on their own without legal counsel. Even those that have technically committed a crime, but under extenuating circumstances, believe that if they just explain it to the police, surely they will understand and the case will just go away.
In reality, by the time police have contacted you they are likely building a case against you regardless of your potential innocence or any extenuating circumstances. The events that occur early during a police investigation, before criminal charges are even filed, are often the most critical and are the moments that legal counsel can most effectively shape how a case will proceed against you. You have rights at these early stages and you need an experienced criminal defense attorney in your corner to make sure those rights are respected by those with the power to change your life forever.
If you have been contacted by the police as part of a criminal investigation, even if you have been told you are not in trouble or are only a witness, you need someone with experience fighting for your interests. If you have already been charged with a crime, you absolutely cannot afford to delay and need legal counsel right away. If you are part of an investigation of a crime or are already charged, call The Ritchie Law Firm PLLC or submit an electronic form from this website immediately for a free case consultation.
AREAS OF FOCUS FOR THE RITCHIE FIRM
Violent Crimes
Crimes that result in serious bodily injury or otherwise involve aspects of violence or threats are considered violent. Common examples of violent crime are: assault, robbery, rape and murder. Violent crimes are taken very seriously by law enforcement, prosecutors and judges. The punishment for these types of cases is often severe. Although “innocent until proven guilty” is a pillar of the American criminal justice system, the mere accusation of a violent crime can ruin someone’s life. If you are facing charges for violent crimes, you need a criminal defense attorney on your side who has experience in navigating the complexities of these serious cases.
Sex Offenses
Sex offenses vary from simply inappropriate touching to forcible sexual intercourse. Regardless of the degree of sex offense, all of them are taken very seriously and are punished very harshly. The mere accusation of this type of offense can destroy a person’s reputation and can impact personal relationships, professional licensing and create hurdles in the future that are impossible to overcome. These cases also often involve complex forensics issues that require an attorney with experience. If you are facing any type of sex offense, it is important to retain an experienced attorney as soon as possible to help mitigate potential negative consequences and assert your rights.
Financial Crimes
Financial crimes occur when someone uses illegal methods as a means of economic benefit. This can include accusations of theft, fraud or ‘white collar crimes’ such as corruption or money laundering. Although these cases sometimes occur as part a sophisticated and intentional financial scheme, often times these cases start as well-meaning people trying to problem solve a sticky financial situation. Accusations of this kind can get out-of-control very quickly, and an experienced felony attorney can come up with the right strategy to navigate these complex issues.
Contact The Ritchie Firm Now!
If you are in need of a criminal defense attorney, please do not delay. The longer you wait, the worse the situation becomes. Use the form below to give us the details of your case, or call us (day or night, weekday or weekend, including holidays) at 425.645.5755 for a free case evaluation and consultation.
Client Testimonial
“Stephen represented my son in a criminal case at his previous law firm. When he made the decision to open his own firm, we decided to follow him and are so thankful that we did. I would highly recommend Stephen Ritchie as an attorney. He has a level of professionalism with knowledge and compassion that took my family through a very difficult time of our life. Stephen truly cares about his clients, and it shows. There was never a moment when he was unavailable, he has exceptional communication skills. We would like to express our most sincere thanks for his excellent representation.”