Trial by Jury Must Survive the Pandemic
On March 20, 2020, the Supreme Court of the State of Washington suspended the right to trial by jury until after April 24, 2020. Their reasons for doing so...
Category Civil Rights and the United States Constitution
Pierce County’s High Priority Offender Scam
In 2016, the Pierce County Prosecutor’s Office launched a new division called the High Priority Offender Unit (HPO for short). The idea was that prosecutors would use data from a defendant’s prior criminal history to assess whether this defendant is – compared to other criminal defendants – disproportionately committing crimes. By 2017 the Pierce County Prosecutor’s Office claimed to have sent more than 650 HPOs to prison, which – they claim –dramatically reduced crime in the community. All of these claims range from suspicious to flat out untrue.
The Beginning of the End of the All White Jury?
The truth is, despite the wonderful step taken recently by our Supreme Court, the systemic removal of people of color from juries over many generations will likely continue to frustrate efforts to diversify the racial makeup of our juries. But what we might be witnessing today is the beginning of the end.
Drug Crimes
Despite some highly publicized moves at both the State and Federal Level, the War on Drugs is still very much alive in Pierce, Thurston, Kitsap and King County, particularly for those alleged to be involved in the use and distribution of heroine and methamphetamine.
Private Counsel or Public Defender
If you were recently arrested or even arraigned, the decision of whether to keep your public defender or retain private counsel is the most important choice you will make going forward – regardless of whether your ultimate goal is to prove your innocence at trial, or negotiate a plea deal in advance.
Get Help Restoring Your Right to Vote for Free
For the month of July, the Law Office of Chris Van Vechten is offering FREE assistance to convicted felons in Washington State who are interested in restoring their right to vote. While restoration of voting rights does not normally require an attorney, Chris is willing to lend assistance to those who have worked to regain their voice, along with their freedom, and want some non-partisan assistance.