Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

charges filed

I recieved a summons to appear in court saying an Information has been filed against me so to appear in court. Is this a trial or what? The charges were welfare fraud and perjury in the second degree. I recieved help from the state for daycare and I did not report when the kids dad moved in but he provided no financial assistance to the household and we seperated one other time but I could not provide any proof (bills,etc)because he lived in a trailer at his uncles,so they said they believe he was always with me. The day May 21, that I was made aware of this I came home and paid full restitution to the state and have not needed any assistance from them for awile and now 2 months later they decide to press charges-do I plead not guilty even though I paid an overpayment and explain the circumstances? I have never been in any trouble of any kind so I am scared so would just like a little insight. Thank you


Asked on 8/01/08, 1:59 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Aaron A. Pelley Cultiva Law, PLLC

Re: charges filed

This is not a trial and this is not the time to plead guilty. The summons is for "arraignment" and it is just one part (of a multi-part) process that leads up to trial. At this hearing, you are simply being charged with the crime. You will be asked, by the Prosecutor, your true name and address. Thereafter, your attorney will acknowledge the documents that have been provided to him and enter a plea of not guilty.

It is very unusual for a judge to accept a plea of guilty at arraignment. Your attorney has not had a chance to review the evidence against you to measure the weight of the State's case. Hope that helps give you some insight.

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Answered on 8/01/08, 12:06 pm


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