Washington State Malicious Mischief Attorney

Is a Malicious Mischief Charge Serious?

Malicious Mischief (also know as Property Destruction in some courts) is defined as knowingly and maliciously damaging the property of another.  A typical Malicious Mischief charge involves breaking the property of a loved one or a business.  Breaking a bar window, damaging a partner's cell phone, or any other form of intentional property damage will result in a charge of Malicious Mischief.  While the charge may not sound that serious, prosecutors and courts often hand out jail sentences on these cases as there is clear evidence of criminal behavior due to the damaged property.  Often time victims are upset as well.  Still,  consequences for a Malicious Mischief conviction vary depending upon the degree of the crime.  There are three different levels of Malicious Mischief in Washington State.  If the cost to repair the damage is less than $750, then the charge is Malicious Mischief in the Third Degree - a Gross Misdemeanor.  Anything over $750 is a felony.

Malicious Mischief Third Degree carries a maximum penalty of a $5000 fine and one year in jail.  Malicious Mischief 1 and 2 (felonies) carry a maximum imprisonment up to ten years and fines of up to $20,000 depending on the severity of the crime.   Due to the strict nature of these punishments, and the many possible defenses to a Malicious Mischief charge, it is absolutely vital that a Lynnwood criminal defense attorney from the Law Office of Lance R. Fryrear is contacted as soon as possible.

Contact Attorney Lance Fryrear in Lynnwood

I have over 17 years of hands-on experience as a criminal lawyer throughout the courts of Washington State.  My experience gives me an edge in finding the best possible way to defend your malicious mischief charge.  We may be able to get your matter dismissed if we can show that you were the true owner of the property damaged.  If not, we can often settle the matter with the alleged victim and then ask the Court to dismiss your matter under a special statute called Compromise of a Misdemeanor.  Regardless of your specific situation, I will vigorously research every aspect of your case and do everything in my power to protect your record and your freedom.  The prosecutor is going to be working hard against you, so you need someone on your side who has the experience needed to fight back.  You can count on me to work hard to aggressively defend you and your interests. 

A malicious mischief charge should not be taken lightly, so know your rights. Contact a Lynnwood criminal defense lawyer at the Law Office of Lance R. Fryrear for help with your case.