Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

Re: Bad Check Criminal Charge-Thurston Cty WA state

First, relax. It is a first offense and it is not a "dangerous" crime. So, yes you could go to jail but you will not if you take my advice. Yes, you need a lawyer so that you don't go to jail. The public defender should be fine. Call the court and find out their process for getting the PD on your case. Then, make sure you get to court. Missing court is the most likely reason you'll go to jail on this case. After you get to court with your PD you can start to rely on his/her advice. However, things useful to bring a copy of will be things tending to show that you are not a risk to re-offend and not a risk to miss court/flee the crime. So, pay stubs, letters from employers, character references, leases or mortgage statements, any documentation tending to show that you are on the straight and narrow and intend to remain there. Even current bank statements showing no funny banking business could be helpful. Lastly, do not have any statements about what really happened with the check to anyone other than your attorney. Even if the prosecutor/judge offers you a "good deal" do not take it until a lawyer looks at it. After all, it is your first time. How do you know if it is a good deal.

Good luck with the case.

At your service,