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Mass Shooting at Washington Music Festival

Washington Beyond Wonderland Shooting

On June 17th, 2023 a picturesque summer night turned into a scene of terror when a male suspect opened fire on a crowd of concertgoers attending the Beyond Wonderland electronic music festival located here in Washington. The incident that occurred resulted in the loss of two lives and left three others injured, including the assailant. As the authorities delve into the details, the pressing question remains: What changes in Washington’s legal system will unfold from this tragic event? Learn about the legal implications and impact on Washington state laws following the tragic shooting incident at Beyond Wonderland music festival. The Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer is invested in monitoring these developments, and understanding how they may affect current cases that our attorneys are working on, or cases they may pick up in the future.

The Washington Beyond Wonderland Shooting Incident and Immediate Response

The shooting began at approximately 8:25 p.m. on a Saturday June 17th, at the overflow campground near the Gorge Amphitheater. Eyewitnesses describe a sense of chaos and panic as the suspect began firing randomly into the crowd. The brave actions of law enforcement officers on-site brought the situation under control, albeit at a great cost. Police confronted the gunman and exchanged gunfire, ultimately wounding and apprehending him, with immediate medical attention provided.

Legal Implications and Pending Investigations

As law enforcement agents embark on investigating the incident, they will work to determine the motive behind the shooting to understand the nature of the crime and potential charges that may be levied against the suspect. The criminal justice framework in Washington State will guide the legal proceedings, ensuring a fair trial for the accused while seeking justice for the victims.

After the incident, the recent House Bill 1240 which went into effect April of 2023, regulating the purchase of certain guns and magazines in an effort to reduce the risk of gun violence, may be put into question for its efficacy.

Victims and their Families

Authorities have taken the necessary steps to inform the victims’ families, providing support and solace during this unimaginably difficult time. The state of Washington will strive to address the needs of the affected individuals, offering assistance and guidance as they navigate the complex aftermath of this incident.

Impact on Beyond Wonderland Music Festival

While the concert continued following the shooting, the organizers of Beyond Wonderland made the difficult decision to cancel the second day of the festival. This choice reflects both respect for the victims and an acknowledgment of the emotional toll inflicted upon attendees. It serves as a somber reminder of the importance of security measures at large-scale events, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety protocols to ensure the well-being of concertgoers in the future.

Looking Forward

The tragedy that unfolded at the Gorge Amphitheater has left a profound impact on the state of Washington. As the investigation progresses, the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families remains at the forefront. It is during such challenging times that the strength of a community shines through, as the state of Washington rallies together to support those affected by this devastating act of violence. The attorneys at the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer will be monitoring the situation closely, making sure that any statewide legal consequences are taken into consideration for the clients we may be representing now, and clients we may represent in the future.

If you are facing any criminal charges, call the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer today at (360) 334-6277 to schedule a consultation.

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Stay Safe on Fourth of July

Fourth of July DUI Consequences in Washington

Celebrating the birth of the United States with friends and family on the Fourth of July is a special occasion for many Americans, but it is also notorious for an increase in driving under the influence (DUI) violations. In this blog post, we will explore the potential consequences of a Fourth of July DUI in Washington and why it is crucial to have legal representation if you find yourself facing such charges during this festive season. The Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer handles dozens of DUIs every year, giving our attorneys the experience necessary to defend clients effectively.

Increased DUI Patrols Due the DUI Consequences of Fourth of July in Washington

The danger of increased DUIs prompts law enforcement agencies to ramp up their patrols to combat drunk driving during the Fourth of July. DUI patrols are typically heightened, and sobriety checkpoints may be set up in various locations in an effort to prevent alcohol-related incidents. Due to the greater emphasis on DUI enforcement during this time, it is more likely to be pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence.

DUI laws vary from state to state, but common consequences include hefty fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, probation, community service, and even jail time. In the state of Washington, DUIs are classified as Gross Misdemeanors, which can carry up to 364 days in jail and up to $5,000.00 in fines. Additionally, the penalties you may face become more significant with each subsequent DUI charge. The seriousness of these consequences underscores the need for strong legal representation.

Complex Legal Process

Navigating the legal process after a DUI arrest can be overwhelming, especially for individuals who have no legal background. From understanding the paperwork and court procedures to mounting a strong defense, the complexity of the process can quickly become a daunting task. An experienced DUI attorney can guide you through the entire process, ensuring your rights are protected and providing valuable legal advice at every step.

Knowledge of DUI Laws

DUI laws are intricate and constantly evolving. An experienced DUI attorney possesses in-depth knowledge of the applicable laws, including any recent updates or changes. They understand the nuances of field sobriety tests, blood alcohol concentration (BAC) tests, and the admissibility of evidence. Armed with this expertise, an attorney can scrutinize the evidence against you and identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. They can challenge improper police procedures, faulty testing equipment, or unreliable witnesses to build a solid defense strategy on your behalf.

Protecting Your Rights 

When facing DUI charges, it is vital to have an attorney who will protect your constitutional rights. They will ensure that law enforcement did not violate any of your rights during the arrest, such as conducting an unlawful search or seizure. Additionally, an attorney can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options, such as alcohol treatment programs or community service, instead of jail time.

How We Can Help

The Fourth of July festivities should not be overshadowed by the legal consequences of a DUI charge. If you find yourself facing such charges during this holiday season, it is essential to consult with a DUI attorney immediately. Their expertise in DUI laws, the legal process, and protecting your rights can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. By hiring a skilled attorney, you can ensure that you have the best possible chance to defend yourself and mitigate the potential consequences associated with a DUI conviction. The attorneys at the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer have the experience and skill necessary to build strong and effective defenses for our clients, and we will do the same for you.

Call the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer today at (360) 334-6277 and schedule a consultation with one of our highly qualified attorneys.

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Hiker Killed in Washington State

Washington Homicide Charges

On August 20, 2022, Aron Christensen and his puppy were found deceased on a hiking trail in Lewis County. Two hikers in the area heard growling followed by a gunshot, and then found Aron Christensen’s body. Washington Homicide Charges are being investigated in connection with this tragic incident. Christensen’s family allege that the police had not given them the cause of death until a week after the body was received by the sheriff’s office. The reports found that the doctor performing Christensen’s autopsy reportedly was pressured into ruling the cause of death as a heart attack and not a gunshot wound. Additionally, two veterinarians conducting the dog’s autopsy each came up with different reasons for the dog’s cause of death, one being stabbed to death, and the other being a gunshot wound. The way that this situation was handled was unprofessional at best, and one can only hope the rest of the investigation will bring justice.

Homicide is a grave offense that strikes at the heart of our society, and we expect other officials to treat it as such. As an established criminal law firm, The Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer believes that everyone has a right to an experienced attorney and the right to due process. Our attorneys will fight to protect your rights in any situation. The carelessness of officials such as the Lewis County Sheriff’s office carries distrust in law enforcement and their commitment to the rights and protection of citizens.

Defining Homicide

Homicide refers to the act of unlawfully causing the death of another person. In Washington, as in most jurisdictions, homicide is categorized into various degrees based on the intent, circumstances, and severity of the act. The two main types of homicide are Murder and Manslaughter which mainly differ on whether or not the intent to cause the death of an individual was present. If Christensen was killed with premeditation or got into a heated argument with another person prompting the gun shot, then it would constitute a murder charge. However, if he was killed due to an accidental firing of the gun it would most likely result in a manslaughter charge.

Homicide Charges in Washington

Murder in the 1st Degree: Murder in the First Degree is the most severe form of homicide, is characterized by premeditation, deliberation, and intent to cause the death of another person. It can carry fines up to $50,000.00 and life in prison as a Class A Felony in the state of Washington.

Murder in the 2nd Degree: Murder in the Second Degree involves killing another person with the intent to cause death, but without premeditation. This charge is a Class A Felony with the same potential penalties as Murder in the First Degree.

Manslaughter in the 1st Degree: If one causes the death of another individual due to reckless behavior then it would be charged as Manslaughter in the First Degree. This offense is a Class A Felony with similar penalties as mentioned above.

Manslaughter in the 2nd Degree: Manslaughter in the Second Degree is committed when one causes the death of another individual due to some form of negligence. This is categorized as a Class B Felony and can carry up to 10 years in prison and $20,000.00 in fines.

How We Can Help You

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding homicide in the state of Washington is vital for anyone involved in or affected by such cases. Circumstances involved where the law enforcement agency such as the Lewis County Sheriff’s office not being able to conduct a proper autopsy where conflicting information is involved only leads to further complicate cases such as these. In such scenarios, it is important to have a skilled attorney at your side in order to protect your rights and freedom as there may be more missteps taken by officials that can lead to improper procedure and unintended consequences. The Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer works as a team of skilled attorneys that are passionate about their clients’ rights and work diligently to defend them to protect those rights. We are here to help you.

Call the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer today at (360) 334-6277 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys. Don’t hesitate to protect your rights and freedom.

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The Bail Process in the State of Washington

Bail Process in Washington

It can be difficult for court officials and law enforcement to persuade those who have been charged with crimes to attend their trial date, creating the need for a system to push offenders to attend. One of the ways that this is done is through jail time. Having people placed under police custody is a great way to ensure that they attend their court date, as the court knows where they are at all times. Another method used in the Bail Process in Washington to assure the attendance of trial is through bail, which refers to the temporary release of a defendant from custody in exchange for a financial guarantee or pledge of property as collateral. What was pledged or given is returned upon the attendance of the trial date; however, if the defendant does not show up to trial, then what was pledged or given is kept by the state.

Purpose of bail

The primary purpose of bail is to strike a balance between the accused person’s right to liberty and the state’s interest in ensuring their presence during legal proceedings. By granting bail, the criminal justice system allows defendants to resume their normal lives, support their families, and adequately prepare for their defense while awaiting trial. It also helps prevent overcrowding in jails, as not every accused person poses a flight risk or danger to society. Hiring an attorney through this process is important as they will not only help you navigate the legal process, but also fervently fight against the charges brought against you. The attorneys at the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer are experts in criminal defense and will defend you to the fullest extent of the law.

Understanding the Bail Process in Washington

When an individual is taken into custody for an alleged crime, law enforcement runs them through the booking process which includes taking fingerprints, photographs, and personal information. The accused person is then placed in a holding cell or jail until their bail hearing in which a judge will examine the circumstances of the case and determine whether to grant bail, deny it, or set specific conditions for release. Important factors that may be examined include the severity of the charge, criminal history, financial resources, flight risk, and potential danger to the community. The judge then carefully weighs these factors and will make a decision that aims to ensure the defendant’s appearance in court.

Types of Bail

There are several types of bail, each one is used or granted in different types of situations, giving the defendant options depending on their circumstances. The different categories of bail are as follows:

Personal Recognizance: In certain cases, a judge may grant personal recognizance, also

known as “own recognizance” or “O.R.” release. This means the defendant is released without the need for any financial guarantee, solely based on their promise to appear in court.

Cash Bail: In this form of bail, the defendant or their representative must pay the entire bail amount in cash to secure their release. The cash is held as collateral and is refunded if the defendant fulfills their obligations and appears in court.

Surety Bail: Surety bail involves utilizing the services of a bail bondsman or a bail bond agency. The bail bondsman pays the full bail amount on behalf of the defendant, typically for a fee (usually around 10% of the total bail amount). The bondsman ensures the defendant’s appearance in court and is responsible for the full bail amount if the defendant fails to appear.

Property Bail: As a rare occurrence, defendants may provide a property title as collateral for their release. A property bail allows the court to foreclose on the property if the defendant does not appear for court.

Once bail is granted, there may be conditions placed upon the defendant’s release. Some examples of these conditions may include regular check in with a bail officer, staying within a specific geographical area such as a city or state, avoiding contact with certain individuals, or abstaining from drug and alcohol use.

How Can We Help You?

Bail is a critical aspect of the criminal justice system, enabling defendants to await trial outside of custody. It ensures their right to due process while maintaining public safety. Understanding the bail process and its various forms is essential for individuals seeking the services of a criminal defense firm. Experienced defense attorneys such as the ones at the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer can guide you through the complexities of bail, building a strong and quality defense that will get you the best possible result.

Call the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer at (360) 334-6277 to schedule your consultation with one of our incredible attorneys today.

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Amendments to the High-Speed Chase Law

Washington Police Pursuit Law Amendments

Washington Governor Jay Inslee signed a bill on April 22, 2021 that modified the Washington Police Pursuit Law Amendments, aiming to reduce the number of fatalities caused by police chases; this was achieved by imposing restrictions on an officer’s decision to pursue a vehicle.

Under this law, police officers’ engagement threshold was raised from reasonable suspicion to probable cause to pursue a vehicle. Reasonable suspicion is when a police officer suspects that a crime is being committed, was committed, or will be committed. Probable cause requires a reasonable belief or suspicion supported by facts and circumstances, that a person has or is about to commit a crime. The evidence needed for probable cause is stronger than the evidence required for reasonable suspicion, which is the standard needed for police to pursue suspects in specific crimes listed under the revised regulations. If you have any further questions or concerns on what a police officer’s conduct should look like, contact the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer and one of our attorneys will be happy to help.

According to city leaders and law enforcement officials, the bill has had unintended consequences of emboldening criminals to flee crime scenes more frequently. This has resulted in an increase of both crime rates and traffic collisions. These concerns have been raised because the revised regulations have made it more difficult for police officers to engage in high-speed pursuits, potentially creating a sense of impunity among criminals who believe they can elude law enforcement. As a result, amendments have and revisions have been put in place to allow for a reduction in the number of accidents, injuries, and deaths resulting from police pursuits while still ensuring that criminals are held accountable for their actions.

Following the emergence of new concerns, amendments were made in April 2023 to reduce the threshold for police officers to engage in high-speed pursuits for the following crimes:

  • Violent crimes
  • Sex crimes
  • Escaping from prison
  • DUI
  • Vehicular assault
  • Domestic Violence Assault

How Might Washington Police Pursuit Law Amendments Impact You?

The modifications made to police pursuit laws in Washington State have a direct impact on the crime of eluding law enforcement. Attempting to Elude is a criminal offense in which a driver attempts to evade a law enforcement officer in a reckless manner after the officer attempts to pull them over. “Reckless manner” refers to a hasty or careless action with disregard for the safety of others. The crime of Eluding is a Class C Felony which carries up to 5 years in prison, and up to $10,000.00 in fines.

Under the new amendments, police officers are required to have reasonable suspicion, rather than probable cause, in order to pursue vehicles involved in specific crimes, whereas previously, officers were required to have probable cause before engaging in a high-speed pursuit. It may now be easier for law enforcement to pursue and apprehend individuals who are actively fleeing the scene of a crime, leading to a decrease in the number of incidents where individuals are able to successfully evade the police.

Potential Defenses to Eluding Charges

There are several defenses that an experienced criminal defense attorney may be able to use to defend you in a court of law. Some of these defenses include but are not limited to:

Lack of Knowledge: In certain circumstances, a driver may not realize that a law enforcement officer was attempting to pull them over. An example of this could be a police officer that does not use the proper signals when pulling over a driver

Lack of Intent: A driver who did not have intention of evading a police officer may be able to use this as a defense. For instance, if the driver was in a medical emergency and was rushing to the hospital, they may argue they did not intentionally avoid the officer.

Unlawful Pursuit: Another possible defense in a pursuit-related case is to argue that the police officer did not properly adhere to established protocols during the pursuit. This can include failing to follow proper procedure for initiating or halting a pursuit, using excessive force or aggression, or engaging in other behaviors that violate departmental policies or legal standards.

How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help

Attempting to Elude is a serious criminal offense that can result in severe legal consequences. If you are facing Attempting to Elude charges, it is crucial to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side who can help protect your rights and build a strong defense. By working with the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, you are sure that a highly experienced and knowledgeable attorney will be representing and defending you to the fullest extent of the law.