Another success case for one of my clients! A client came to my firm, The Law Offices of Lance Fryrear , and was facing a charge for domestic violence malicious mischief. Malicious mischief is also known as property destruction and it entails intentional and malicious damage to another person's property. Examples of this offense include breaking someone's window or breaking a computer that belongs to another person. The penalties for malicious mischief in Washington are tough and can damage your criminal record. The punishments depend on the degree of malicious mischief, the breakdown follows these guidelines:
First Degree Malicious Mischief: property damage of over $5,000
- Charged as a Class B felony
- Punishable by a prison sentence of up to 10 years
- Fine of up to $20,000
Second Degree Malicious Mischief: property damage from $750-$5,000
- Charges as a Class C felony
- Punishable by a prison sentence of up to five years
- Fine of up to $10,000
Third Degree Malicious Mischief: property damage of $750 or less
- Charged as a gross misdemeanor
- Jail sentence of up to 365 days
- Fine of up to $5,000
My client was originally facing domestic violence malicious mischief but fortunately, the case was amended to a non- domestic violence malicious mischief. They were then facing charges for Malicious Mischief in the Third Degree and was at risk of the penalties that follow that conviction. After I built a strong defense on their behalf and aggressively negotiated- the charges were dismissed altogether. If you are at risk for a malicious mischief conviction act now and contact a Lynnwood criminal defense attorney from my firm today. With over 17 years of experience defending clients in their criminal cases I may be able to help you get your charges reduced or even dismissed. I offer a free personal case evaluation so you can call to ask me questions and discuss your case at no cost to you.