Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

I thought I was a witness.

I have been summoned to appear before court and I have been charged with Residential Burglary.

The State of Washington is stating that I had intent to commit a crime against a person or property, entered or remained unlawfully in the dwelling which violation is a Class B Felony.

This happened 2 1/2 years ago. My involvement to the mentioned property was that I was house sitting for my mom's best friend and had permission to be in and on the mentioned property. I have no knowledge of anyone removing anything from the dwelling or involvement. My only fault is that I had 2 friends at the time over during this time and I am unsure if they left a door unlocked so they could return later alone. I only let them enter the house to use the bathroom and thought I was being careful. This was a beach house so we mainly stayed outside. I called the home owner when I noticed a laptop was missing from the place I had seen it before. I gave 3 statements to the police at the seen. I have never been charged with anything before so I have a clean record. The 2 people I had over were picked up and charged recently with PSP so I am thinking they are trying to involve me somehow to be involved with the burglary. Should I get a lawyer?


Asked on 9/23/07, 9:50 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
James J. White, attorney Law Offices of Smith & White, PLLC

Re: I thought I was a witness.

Yes. And soon. The time to consult a lawyer is as early as possible. Even before you make statements to the police. If you are an adult you could be looking at serious time for this offense. Contact me directly if you'd like further assistance.

At your service,

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Answered on 9/24/07, 1:20 am


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