# The Law Office of Chris Van Vechten

> The South Sound’s Most Dedicated Criminal Defense Attorney


## Posts

- [Keeping Your Driver's License](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/keeping-your-drivers-license/): There are many crimes that can cost you not only your freedom, future and finances but also your privilege to drive. These offenses are largely outlined in RCW 46.20.285, which was recently updated and now reads as follows...
- [Warrantless Seizures and Race](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/warrantless-seizures-and-race/): The Washington State Supreme Court recently declared that whether or not a person has been seized by a police officer may depend on what race the defendant happens to be.
- [Is Washington's Unlawful Possession of a Firearm Statute Constitutional?](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/is-washingtons-unlawful-possession-of-a-firearm-statute-constitutional/): Washington's unlawful possession of a firearm statutes are unconstitutional as they constitute a due process violation.  Defense attorneys representing those accused of unlawful possession of a firearm should move to dismiss the charges and - if nothing else - preserve the issue for appeal.
- [Overturn Your Conviction!](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/overturn-your-conviction/): New laws make it easier to overturn your conviction! I was recently retained by an individual to vacate 11 separate convictions from his record that are dispersed across 8 jurisdictions and concern conduct spanning from 1995 to 2018 – all of which, as soon as the courts get through the backlogs created by the chaos of 2020 and these decisions, will be vacated!
- [When Is It Legal To Use Force Against A Police Officer?](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/when-is-it-legal-to-use-force-against-a-police-officer/): Historically, a suspect had the right to resist an unlawful arrest by a police officer so long as the force applied was proportional to the threat presented.
- [How To Beat Speeding Tickets or Moving Violations](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/how-to-beat-speeding-tickets-or-moving-violations/): Defending against speeding tickets and moving violations can be very dry and technical. A prosecutor or intern may appear in court to prosecute the infraction. Your chances of success dramatically increase if you are represented by a lawyer.
- [Should I Just Get A Public Defender?](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/should-i-just-get-a-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.
- [What is Attorney-Client Privilege?](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-questions/what-is-attorney-client-privilege/): Attorney-Client Privilege - There are certain classes of individuals with whom a client has the ability to have privileged communications with.
- [How Do the Free Criminal Defense Consultations Work?](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-questions/how-do-the-free-criminal-defense-consultations-work/): At the Law Office of Chris Van Vechten, for all criminal cases, the first consultation is always free.
- [What is different about a juvenile defense lawyer?](https://soundlawyering.com/questions/what-is-different-about-a-juvenile-defense-lawyer/): The earlier in life someone has a criminal record, the more likely they are to have additional problems. A juvenile lawyer represents juveniles who have been charged with crimes, minors typically under the age of 18, who are too young to be held accountable in a criminal court for their acts. However, that doesn&#8217;t mean there are not serious consequences for juveniles who are convicted of a crime, and it doesn&#8217;t mean you don&#8217;t need a juvenile defense lawyer. Charges in juvenile court can include almost anything an adult can be charged with &#8211; drug possession, assault, burglary, and additional charges [&hellip;]
- [If You Need a Felony Defense Lawyer](https://soundlawyering.com/questions/if-you-need-a-felony-defense-lawyer/): If you have been, or are going to be, charged with a felony, you need to talk to an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
- [At What Point Do I Need to See a Criminal Defense Lawyer?](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-questions/at-what-point-do-i-need-to-see-a-criminal-defense-lawyer/): The biggest mistake defendants make is waiting too long to contact a criminal defense lawyer.
- [Restraining Orders and Protection Orders](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/restraining-orders-and-protection-orders/): [av_post_metadata post_selected=&#8221; seperator=&#8217;/&#8217; before_meta_content=&#8221; after_meta_content=&#8221; margin=&#8221; margin_sync=&#8217;true&#8217; align=&#8217;left&#8217; custom_title=&#8221; size=&#8221; av-medium-font-size=&#8221; av-small-font-size=&#8221; av-mini-font-size=&#8221; alb_description=&#8221; id=&#8221; custom_class=&#8221; template_class=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuylvnms&#8217; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242; admin_preview_bg=&#8221;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;published&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;by&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuylvmm4&#8242; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;modified&#8217; before_meta=&#8221; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;categories&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;in&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [/av_post_metadata]
- [Estate Planning](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/estate-planning/): [av_post_metadata post_selected=&#8221; seperator=&#8217;/&#8217; before_meta_content=&#8221; after_meta_content=&#8221; margin=&#8221; margin_sync=&#8217;true&#8217; align=&#8217;left&#8217; custom_title=&#8221; size=&#8221; av-medium-font-size=&#8221; av-small-font-size=&#8221; av-mini-font-size=&#8221; alb_description=&#8221; id=&#8221; custom_class=&#8221; template_class=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuylwjt6&#8242; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242; admin_preview_bg=&#8221;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;published&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;by&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuylwio3&#8242; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;modified&#8217; before_meta=&#8221; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;categories&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;in&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [/av_post_metadata] [av_post_metadata post_selected=&#8221; seperator=&#8217;/&#8217; before_meta_content=&#8221; after_meta_content=&#8221; margin=&#8217;,,,,&#8217; align=&#8217;left&#8217; custom_title=&#8221; size=&#8221; av-medium-font-size=&#8221; av-small-font-size=&#8221; av-mini-font-size=&#8221; av-desktop-hide=&#8221; av-medium-hide=&#8221; av-small-hide=&#8221; av-mini-hide=&#8221; alb_description=&#8221; id=&#8221; custom_class=&#8221; template_class=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;author&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;by&#8217;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;modified&#8217;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;categories&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;in&#8217;] [/av_post_metadata]
- [Traffic Infractions and Violations](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/traffic-infractions-and-violations/): [av_post_metadata post_selected=&#8221; seperator=&#8217;/&#8217; before_meta_content=&#8221; after_meta_content=&#8221; margin=&#8221; margin_sync=&#8217;true&#8217; align=&#8217;left&#8217; custom_title=&#8221; size=&#8221; av-medium-font-size=&#8221; av-small-font-size=&#8221; av-mini-font-size=&#8221; alb_description=&#8221; id=&#8221; custom_class=&#8221; template_class=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuylyfxa&#8217; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242; admin_preview_bg=&#8221;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;published&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;by&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuylxix3&#8242; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;modified&#8217; before_meta=&#8221; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;categories&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;in&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [/av_post_metadata] [av_post_metadata post_selected=&#8221; seperator=&#8217;/&#8217; before_meta_content=&#8221; after_meta_content=&#8221; margin=&#8217;,,,,&#8217; align=&#8217;left&#8217; custom_title=&#8221; size=&#8221; av-medium-font-size=&#8221; av-small-font-size=&#8221; av-mini-font-size=&#8221; av-desktop-hide=&#8221; av-medium-hide=&#8221; av-small-hide=&#8221; av-mini-hide=&#8221; alb_description=&#8221; id=&#8221; custom_class=&#8221; template_class=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;author&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;by&#8217;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;modified&#8217;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;categories&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;in&#8217;] [/av_post_metadata]
- [Personal Injury Cases](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/personal-injury-cases/): [av_post_metadata post_selected=&#8221; seperator=&#8217;/&#8217; before_meta_content=&#8221; after_meta_content=&#8221; margin=&#8221; margin_sync=&#8217;true&#8217; align=&#8217;left&#8217; custom_title=&#8221; size=&#8221; av-medium-font-size=&#8221; av-small-font-size=&#8221; av-mini-font-size=&#8221; alb_description=&#8221; id=&#8221; custom_class=&#8221; template_class=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuylz46k&#8217; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242; admin_preview_bg=&#8221;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;published&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;by&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuylz38d&#8217; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;modified&#8217; before_meta=&#8221; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;categories&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;in&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [/av_post_metadata]
- [Juvenile Domestic Violence](https://soundlawyering.com/juvenile-defense/juvenile-domestic-violence/): [av_post_metadata post_selected=&#8221; seperator=&#8217;/&#8217; before_meta_content=&#8221; after_meta_content=&#8221; margin=&#8221; margin_sync=&#8217;true&#8217; align=&#8217;left&#8217; custom_title=&#8221; size=&#8221; av-medium-font-size=&#8221; av-small-font-size=&#8221; av-mini-font-size=&#8221; alb_description=&#8221; id=&#8221; custom_class=&#8221; template_class=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuylzqse&#8217; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242; admin_preview_bg=&#8221;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;published&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;by&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuylzorp&#8217; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;modified&#8217; before_meta=&#8221; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;categories&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;in&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [/av_post_metadata]
- [Sexual Offenses](https://soundlawyering.com/juvenile-defense/sexual-offenses/)
- [Minor DUI/DWI](https://soundlawyering.com/juvenile-defense/minor-dui-dwi/): [av_post_metadata post_selected=&#8221; seperator=&#8217;/&#8217; before_meta_content=&#8221; after_meta_content=&#8221; margin=&#8221; margin_sync=&#8217;true&#8217; align=&#8217;left&#8217; custom_title=&#8221; size=&#8221; av-medium-font-size=&#8221; av-small-font-size=&#8221; av-mini-font-size=&#8221; alb_description=&#8221; id=&#8221; custom_class=&#8221; template_class=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuym0yhw&#8217; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242; admin_preview_bg=&#8221;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;published&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;by&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuym0x2e&#8217; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;modified&#8217; before_meta=&#8221; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;categories&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;in&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [/av_post_metadata]
- [Minor Possession - Tobacco, Cannabis, Drugs, Alcohol](https://soundlawyering.com/juvenile-defense/minor-possession-tobacco-cannabis-drugs-alcohol/): [av_post_metadata post_selected=&#8221; seperator=&#8217;/&#8217; before_meta_content=&#8221; after_meta_content=&#8221; margin=&#8221; margin_sync=&#8217;true&#8217; align=&#8217;left&#8217; custom_title=&#8221; size=&#8221; av-medium-font-size=&#8221; av-small-font-size=&#8221; av-mini-font-size=&#8221; alb_description=&#8221; id=&#8221; custom_class=&#8221; template_class=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuym28cc&#8217; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242; admin_preview_bg=&#8221;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;published&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;by&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuym23ax&#8217; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;modified&#8217; before_meta=&#8221; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;categories&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;in&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [/av_post_metadata]
- [Illegal Purchases - Tobacco, Cannabis, Alcohol](https://soundlawyering.com/juvenile-defense/illegal-purchases-tobacco-cannabis-alcohol/): [av_post_metadata post_selected=&#8221; seperator=&#8217;/&#8217; before_meta_content=&#8221; after_meta_content=&#8221; margin=&#8221; margin_sync=&#8217;true&#8217; align=&#8217;left&#8217; custom_title=&#8221; size=&#8221; av-medium-font-size=&#8221; av-small-font-size=&#8221; av-mini-font-size=&#8221; alb_description=&#8221; id=&#8221; custom_class=&#8221; template_class=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuym2xcj&#8217; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242; admin_preview_bg=&#8221;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;published&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;by&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-kuym2ugf&#8217; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;modified&#8217; before_meta=&#8221; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [av_metadata_item metadata=&#8217;categories&#8217; before_meta=&#8217;in&#8217; after_meta=&#8221; link_meta=&#8217;default&#8217; link_target=&#8221; av_uid=&#8221; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242;] [/av_post_metadata]
- [Animal Cruelty and Abuse](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/animal-cruelty-abuse/): Washington law prohibits the following as animal cruelty: Intentionally (a) inflicting substantial pain on, (b) causing physical injury to, or (c) killing an animal by a means causing undue suffering, or forcing a minor to inflict unnecessary pain, injury, or death on an animal. Knowingly engaging in sexual conduct or contact with an animal or activities related to such behavior (photographs/films, organizes, participates as observer, allows on premises, etc.). Knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence inflicting unnecessary suffering or pain upon an animal including: Failure to provide necessary shelter, rest, sanitation, space, or medical attention resulting in unnecessary or unjustifiable physical [&hellip;]
- [Animal Crimes](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/animal-crimes/)
- [Identity Crimes](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/identity-crimes/)
- [Trespassing, Obstruction, Political Crimes](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/trespassing-obstruction-political-crimes/)
- [Computer Trespass](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/computer-trespass/)
- [Cybercrimes, Hacking, Cyberbullying](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/cybercrimes-hacking-cyberbullying/)
- [Gun Crimes](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/gun-crimes/)
- [Robbery](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/robbery/)
- [Aggravated Assault](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/aggravated-assault/)
- [Motor Vehicle Theft](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/motor-vehicle-theft/)
- [Burglary](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/burglary/)
- [Rape](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/rape/)
- [Securities Fraud](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/securities-fraud/)
- [Monetary Crimes/Fraud](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/monetary-crimes-fraud/)
- [White Collar/Corporate Crime](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/white-collar-corporate-crime/)
- [DUI/DWI](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/dui-dwi/)
- [Misdemeanors](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/misdemeanors/)
- [Juvenile Offenses](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/juvenile-offenses/)
- [Felonies](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/felonies/): [av_textblock textblock_styling_align=&#8221; textblock_styling=&#8221; textblock_styling_gap=&#8221; textblock_styling_mobile=&#8221; size=&#8221; av-desktop-font-size=&#8221; av-medium-font-size=&#8221; av-small-font-size=&#8221; av-mini-font-size=&#8221; font_color=&#8221; color=&#8221; id=&#8221; custom_class=&#8221; template_class=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-laqdkr3m&#8217; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242; admin_preview_bg=&#8221;] [/av_textblock]
- [Domestic Violence](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/domestic-violence/)
- [Statutory Rape](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/statutory-rape/)
- [Indecent Exposure](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/indecent-exposure/)
- [Sex Offenses](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/sex-offenses/)
- [Assault](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/assault/)
- [Suspended Drivers License](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/suspended-drivers-license/): [av_textblock textblock_styling_align=&#8221; textblock_styling=&#8221; textblock_styling_gap=&#8221; textblock_styling_mobile=&#8221; size=&#8221; av-desktop-font-size=&#8221; av-medium-font-size=&#8221; av-small-font-size=&#8221; av-mini-font-size=&#8221; font_color=&#8221; color=&#8221; id=&#8221; custom_class=&#8221; template_class=&#8221; av_uid=&#8217;av-laqdnz0j&#8217; sc_version=&#8217;1.0&#8242; admin_preview_bg=&#8221;] [/av_textblock]
- [Drug Charges](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/drug-charges/)
- [Theft](https://soundlawyering.com/practice-areas/theft/)
- [Trial by Jury Must Survive the Pandemic](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/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...
- [Law Office of Chris Van Vechten Criminal Defense Hand Soaps:  Designed for a clean getaway!](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/law-office-of-chris-van-vechten-criminal-defense-hand-soaps-designed-for-a-clean-getaway/): The CDC recommends thorough and regular hand washing as the primary step individuals can take to protect themselves and their families from the spread of airborne diseases like COVID-19. 
- [This drug test can't tell the difference between menstrual cramp medication and crack cocaine.  Police use it to determine probable cause anyway.](https://soundlawyering.com/controlled-substances/this-drug-test-cant-tell-the-difference-between-menstrual-cramp-medication-and-crack-cocaine-police-use-it-to-determine-probable-cause-anyway/): Police use inaccurate and confusing narcotics identification tests to determine probable cause. We win criminal defense cases for our clients when they do.
- [The Family and Offender Sentencing Alternative: Our Most Under-Utilized Tool in the War on Crime](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/the-family-and-offender-sentencing-alternative-our-most-under-utilized-tool-in-the-war-on-crime/): The Parenting Sentencing Alternative allows some nonviolent offenders the opportunity to avoid prison, or get out of prison, in order to parent their children.
- [Now It's Easier to Vacate a Conviction (including immigration convictions)](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/new-criminal-law-to-vacating-a-conviction-for-immigration/): The law has changed following passage of House Bill 1041, sponsored by Representative Drew Hansen, so that more people can apply to have their criminal records vacated and expunged than ever before.
- [Pierce County's High Priority Offender Scam](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/pierce-countys-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.
- [Four Rules to Remember When Fighting the DOL (Department of Licensing)](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/fighting-slam-dunk-case-to-the-department-of-licensing/): Four Rules to Remember When Fighting the Washington State Department of Licensing
- [Halloween Special on Wills, POAs and other Estate Planning Devices](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/halloween-special-on-wills-poas-and-other-estate-planning-devices/): One of the great failures of the criminal justice system was the Sentence Reform Act, a piece of legislation designed to promote consistency and fairness in the criminal justice system by restraining the power of judges without taking any steps to restrain prosecutors and police.
- [Indecent Exposure Laws: The Naked Truth](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/indecent-exposure-laws-the-naked-truth/): If you have been charged, expect to be charged, or are currently being investigated for anything resembling indecent exposure, it is important you retain a committed and aggressive attorney who understands the sensitivities of these sorts of crimes as soon as possible.  Failing to do so risks undermining your case and being charged with even more serious offenses.
- [Defining Bail Jumping](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/defining-bail-jumping/): There are many things involved in the criminal justice system that seem to be purposely designed to prevent the defendant from asserting their right to trial. Bail jumping is one of them, because it gives the State the opportunity to charge the Defendant with an additional crime simply by virtue of missing a court date.
- [150 "Not Guilty" Verdicts / Criminal Case Dismissed... and Counting](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/150-not-guilty-verdicts-criminal-case-dismissed-and-counting/): The Law Office of Chris Van Vechten is celebrating our 150th criminal case dimissed! We're proud of our record and we want to help you with your criminal case.
- [The Beginning of the End of the All White Jury?](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/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.
- [The Need to Pass a Law to Require Prosecutors to Disclose Information from Incentivized Informants](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/the-need-to-pass-a-law-to-require-prosecutors-to-disclose-information-from-incentivized-informants/): Read about the needful things to pass a law that needs prosecutors to conceal the informants. Know this law can protect the innocent and ensure fairness.
- [Convicted on a Technicality: The Manipulations of the Law to Maximize Consequences to Minor Offenders](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/convicted-on-a-technicality-the-manipulations-of-the-law-to-maximize-consequences-to-minor-offenders/): One of the great failures of the criminal justice system was the Sentence Reform Act, a piece of legislation designed to promote consistency and fairness in the criminal justice system by restraining the power of judges without taking any steps to restrain prosecutors and police. The basis of the SRA is the concept that sentence ranges should be determined based on the seriousness of the present offense (as determined by statute, rather than the actual facts of the case) combined with the number of prior felony convictions (although, misdemeanor convictions increasingly are factored into felony offender scores). In short, the more felony [&hellip;]
- [The New Rationale for Why the Police Don't Need a Search Warrant for a Breathalyzer Breath Test](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/the-new-rationale-for-why-the-police-dont-need-a-search-warrant-for-a-breathalyzer-breath-test/): This Washington Supreme Court ruling says Police don’t need a search warrant to make you blow - drivers have no constitutional right to refuse a breath test.
- [The Need to Decriminalize Some Forms of Theft](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/the-need-to-decriminalize-some-forms-of-theft/): The Law Office of Chris Van Vechten would like to propose passing a law creating a new category of theft that constitutes an infraction and mandating that State and Municipal Prosecutors may charge select acts of theft as infractions instead of crimes.
- [A New Office for a New Year](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/a-new-office-for-a-new-year/): 2016 was a big year for the Law Office of Chris Van Vechten, marked by some dramatic successes both inside and out of the courtroom.  The highlight of course was proving the innocence of a 15 year-old-client who was framed for bringing a loaded and cocked semi-automatic pistol to his high school, in a relatively high profile case that garnered significant regional attention.
- [Theft in the Third Degree](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/theft-in-the-third-degree/): Society is ready to forgive those who have struggled with addiction or anger problems, but theft is a biblical crime that is universally despised and carries with it life-long consequences in addition to serious stigmas.
- [Prosecutor vs Attorney: How Prosecutors Pressure Your Attorney Not To Investigate Your Case](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/prosecutor-vs-attorney-how-prosecutors-pressure-your-attorney-not-to-investigate-your-case/): Prosecutor vs Attorney: Prosecutors pressure attorneys not to investigate claims against their clients by offering plea deals. This is prosecutorial misconduct.
- [Charged as a Juvenile](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/charged-as-a-juvenile/): The Juvenile Justice System is a strange subspecies of the criminal justice system that – for a variety of reasons – only a fraction of defense attorneys venture to try their hand at. Being charged as a juvenile means that the short term consequences of a conviction (called an “adjudication” within juvenile court lingo) are significantly diminished in terms of incarceration. 
- [Our son was framed, and Chris Van Vechten proved it](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/15-year-old-defendant-accused-of-bringing-a-gun-to-school/): The Law Office of Chris Van Vechten proved that a 15-year-old defendant accused of bringing a gun to Shelton High School was framed by a classmate.
- [Juvenile Gun Case: Van Vechten Forces Prosecutor to Drop Charges](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-case-log/juvenile-gun-case-van-vechten-forces-prosecutor-to-drop-charges/): The Law Office of Chris Van Vechten proved that a 15 year old defendant accused of bringing a gun to school was framed by a classmate, compelling the Mason County Deputy prosecutor to drop the charges.
- [Adult Sentencing Guidelines for Washington State](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-case-log/adult-sentencing-guidelines-for-washington-state/): Chris Van Vechten breaks down the Washington state adult sentencing guidelines and the Sentencing Reform Act.
- [Drug Crimes](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/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. 
- [Smoke Pot?  Own a Car?  You should know about this.](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/smoke-pot-own-a-car-you-should-know-about-this/): In 2015, the Washington State Legislature expanded its open container law to encompass marijuana.  House Bill 1276, which predominately concerned one of the Legislature’s favorite criminal subjects – DUI – nevertheless made it a traffic infraction for the registered owner of a motor vehicle, or the driver if the registered owner is not then present, or any passengers in the vehicle…
- [No Contact Orders](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/no-contact-orders/): No contact order restrict physical/verbal contact with other. It can be issued as a condition of bail, bond, or recognition as release or sentence or probation.
- [Who Does Chris Van Vechten Represent?](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-questions/who-does-chris-van-vechten-represent/): The Law Office of Chris Van Vechten serves clients who represent every cross-section of our community & strives to provide a powerful and personalized defense.
- [We've Moved](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/weve-moved/): The Law Office of Chris Van Vechten has moved to new location in Tacoma. Our new address is 306 S 7th St, Suite 208, Tacoma, WA, 98402.
- [How Easily You Can Be Charged with Burglarizing Your Own House](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/how-easily-you-can-be-charged-with-burglarizing-your-own-house/): It surprised you to know that in most states, in some situations, people can be charged with burglarizing. Here is the real burglary violence event...
- [Happy New Year](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/happy-new-year/): The Law Office of Chris Van Vechten wishes our clients a very Happy New Year. In 2014, it has been a tremendous honor to represent 95% of those who visit us.
- [V for Van Vechten](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/v-for-van-vechten/): Chris Van Vechten is a well-known criminal defense attorney, working in The Law Office of Chris Van Vechten Tacoma.
- [I Haven't Even Been Convicted Yet, Why Has My License to Drive Been Suspended?](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/i-havent-even-been-convicted-yet-why-has-my-license-to-drive-been-suspended/): The collateral consequences of a DUI conviction are numerous and harsh.  But often my client’s primary concern is preventing their driving license from being suspended or restoring it upon resolving their matter.   Because many DUI defendants struggle to understand...
- [The Effect of I-594](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/the-effect-of-i-594/): Washington state's Initiative 594 (I-594) is the most comprehensive attempt to restrict the rights of law-abiding gun owners in the state. Read the blog to learn the facts about the new law (i-594), what it replaces and what doesn't.
- [Defending DUIs](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/dui-dwi-defense-lawyer/): If you have been arrested for a DUI and When it comes to defending DUIs case, you should talk to a DUI attorney about the defense available.
- [100 Days in Office](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/100-days-in-office/): We are pleased to inform you that The Law Office of Chris Van Vechten has just marked 100 days in this office with a professional service agreement.
- [Private Counsel or Public Defender](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/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.
- [Easier than Ever to File for 501(c)(3) Status](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/easier-than-ever-to-file-1023-ez/): The Law Office of Chris Van Vechten was recently retained to assist a Kitsap County youth sports client in applying for 501(c)(3) status.  The new 1023-EZ Form makes it easier to apply for tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3). It can be filed electronically through Pay.gov
- [Get Help Restoring Your Right to Vote for Free](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/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.
- [Why Bottled Beer is Better](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/why-bottled-beer-is-better/): Summer is a great time to be outside and to socialize….and law enforcement knows it. Summer bears witness to a noticeable uptick in all crimes and misdemeanors – especially alcohol related. DUI and MIP are the obvious ones – but some alcohol crimes are more esoteric.
- [How To Really Get Out Of A Speeding Ticket](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/how-to-really-get-out-of-a-speeding-ticket/): Have you chosen to fight the speeding ticket? Your chances of success increases in speeding infractions if you are represented by an attorney. Chris Van Vechten has fought to enforce over a thousand speeding tickets and other traffic infractions. He worked as a Rule 9 Prosecutor in Thurston County District Court and later in Lakewood/UP Municipal. Let him fight for you!

## Pages

- [Criminal defense law blog](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-law-blog/): Chris Van Vechten Criminal Defense Blog ASK FOR CONSULTATION Freedom for the Innocent and Fairness for the Rest When you need a defense attorney, you don’t just need any defense attorney. You need a defense attorney who knows how to win. Happiest Clients 0 +
- [Criminal defense cases won](https://soundlawyering.com/criminal-defense-cases-won/): Chris Van Vechten Criminal defense cases won ASK FOR CONSULTATION Freedom for the Innocent and Fairness for the Rest When you need a defense attorney, you don’t just need any defense attorney. You need a defense attorney who knows how to win. We know how to win. This page contains just a partial list of cases we’ve won; the cases were won outright at trial, dismissed prior to trial, or the case was dismissed at or subsequent to sentencing. Cases won at trial are highlighted.When you hire the Law Office of Chris Van Vechten, you are in good hands.
- [F.A.Q](https://soundlawyering.com/f-a-q/): Chris Van Vechten Criminal Defense Questions ASK FOR CONSULTATION Questions About Criminal Defense Being charged with a crime is scary, but we’ll get you through it.
- [Areas of Practice](https://soundlawyering.com/areas-of-practice/): Chris Van Vechten Areas of Practice ASK FOR CONSULTATION Our Areas of Practice The Law Office of Chris Van Vechten provides criminal defense representation for any matter. If you are unsure if you need criminal defense representation, contact us nowYou have a right to a criminal defense attorney.Don’t take chances with your freedom. Criminal Defense Juvenile Defense Civil Cases
- [About](https://soundlawyering.com/about/): AboutChris Van Vechten Van Vechten is a Dutch name which literally means “ready to fight,” “to struggle,” “to crusade” or “to zealously advocate.   ASK FOR CONSULTATION WHY GO WITH CHRIS “Van Vechten” means “ready to fight” Van Vechten is a Dutch name which literally means “ready to fight,” “to struggle,” “to crusade” or “to zealously advocate. As a criminal defense trial attorney, Chris does his best to live up to his name because he believes that everyone is worth fighting for: even those who are sometimes difficult to love and easy to leave behind. That means competently, compassionately and – [&hellip;]
- [Home](https://soundlawyering.com/): Why I Work as a Criminal Defense Lawyer Van Vechten is a Dutch name which literally means “ready to fight”, “to struggle”, “to crusade” or “to zealously advocate”.   ASK FOR CONSULTATION ABOUT US Freedom for the Innocent and Fairness for the Rest When you need a defense attorney, you don’t just need any defense attorney. You need a defense attorney who knows how to win. Happiest Clients 0 + SERVICES Criminal Defense Cases Won The Law Office of Chris Van Vechten provides criminal defense representation for any matter. VIEW ALL MORE ABOUT US Focusing on Our Clients Only Van Vechten [&hellip;]
- [Sample Page](https://soundlawyering.com/sample-page/): This is an example page. It&#8217;s different from a blog post because it will stay in one place and will show up in your site navigation (in most themes). Most people start with an About page that introduces them to potential site visitors. It might say something like this: Hi there! I&#8217;m a bike messenger by day, aspiring actor by night, and this is my website. I live in Los Angeles, have a great dog named Jack, and I like pi&#241;a coladas. (And gettin&#8217; caught in the rain.) &#8230;or something like this: The XYZ Doohickey Company was founded in 1971, and [&hellip;]

## Optional

- [Agent (MCP protocol)](websites-agents.hostinger.com/soundlawyering.com/mcp)

[comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)