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# Law offices of Alexander Ransom

Bellingham Criminal Defense

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Blog](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/blog/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Broad Coalition Launches to Restore the Constitutional Right to Trial](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/broad-coalition-launches-to-restore-the-constitutional-right-to-trial/) - Twenty-four national organizations and community leaders created the End the Trial Penalty Coalition to end the coercive elements of plea bargaining.
- [Police Bodycams Hold K-9's Accountable](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/police-bodycams-hold-k-9s-accountable/) - For decades, American courts have have believed that drug-sniffing dogs were impartial. But the recent spread of body cameras now threatens to upend that faith.
- [Use of License Plate Readers Spreading Across Washington](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/use-of-license-plate-readers-spreading-across-washington/) - Cities across Washington are turning to technology and using automated license plate reader cameras to combat crime. Critics say the cameras go too far.
- [Federal Judge Prohibits Seattle from Enforcing Its Anti-Graffiti Law](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/federal-judge-prohibits-seattle-from-enforcing-its-anti-graffiti-law/) - A U.S. district court has ruled that Seattle must temporarily cease enforcement of property crimes with regard to graffiti.
- [Can Ozempic Decrease Violent Behavior?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/can-ozempic-decrease-violent-behavior/) - A study suggests GLP-1 drugs might potentially curb people’s violent tendencies. The drugs can affect people’s sense of impulse control and reward processing.
- [U.S. Supreme Court Limits the Federal Gun Ban on Drug Users](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/u-s-supreme-court-limits-the-federal-gun-ban-on-drug-users/) - U.S. Supreme Court ruled that, without evidence of danger, the government cannot bar people from owning guns because they occasionally use marijuana.
- [The Crackdown On Repeat Impaired Driving](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-crackdown-on-repeat-impaired-driving/) - Earlier this year, Washington State updated DUI laws in ways that involves how past offenses are counted when determining whether DUI charge rises to a felony.
- [Public Defenders Join Lawsuit Against WA For Funding](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/public-defenders-join-lawsuit-against-wa-for-funding/) - The King County Public Defense Office is joining a lawsuit by rural counties against the State of Washington for failing to adequately fund public defense.
- [Study: Forest Fire Smoke Leads to Increased Criminal Activity](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/study-forest-fire-smoke-leads-to-increased-violence/) - New research suggests that forest fire smoke may affect mental health and cause an increase in violent and drug-related crimes.
- [U.S. Supreme Court Sides With Death Row Inmate in Challenge to Racial Discrimination in Jury Selection](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/46171-2/) - The Supreme Court has ruled for a Black death row inmate from Mississippi who claims there was racial bias in the makeup of the jury that convicted him.
- [City of Bellingham to Lower Speed Limits](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/city-of-bellingham-to-lower-speed-limits/) - The Bellingham City Council voted to lower speed limits 5 to 10 mph, decreasing speeds in most neighborhoods, including side streets and in the downtown core.
- [Admitting Evidence of "Common Scheme or Plan" Under Evidence Rule 404(b)](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/46124-2/) - Victims of a defendant's prior bad acts do not need to be markedly similar to each other for the prior bad acts to be admissible to show common scheme or plan.
- [Whatcom County Approves New Criminal Justice Sales Tax](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/whatcom-county-approves-new-criminal-justice-sales-tax/) - Whatcom County Council considered and ultimately approved a new 0.1% sales and use tax for criminal justice purposes after a public hearing.
- [Marijuana Arrests Decrease](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/marijuana-arrests-decrease/) - Marijuana arrests are down significantly in the U.S., but a new report shows prohibition states continue to drive most enforcement activity.
- [Protection Order Violations & Firearms Surrender](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/protection-order-violations-firearms-surrender/) - A protection order requiring an individual to surrender firearms is valid if a court finds the individual poses a clear threat of physical violence to another.
- [Millionaires Tax Will Not Help Fund Public Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/millionaires-tax-will-not-help-fund-public-defense/) - Washington state lawmakers rejected a plan to use a new income tax to help pay for lawyers for criminal defendants, despite the growing public defense crisis.
- [The Right To Counsel Does Not Also Include the Right to Coaching A Defendant Mid-Trial](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-right-to-counsel-does-not-also-include-the-right-to-coaching-a-defendant-mid-trial/) - A trial judge may prohibit defense counsel from communicating with the defendant to prevent coaching and protect the truth-seeking function of the trial.
- [Governor Signs Bill Prohibiting Law Enforcement Impersonators](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/governor-signs-bill-prohibiting-law-enforcement-impersonators/) - Governor Bob Ferguson signed a bill preventing individuals from posing as law enforcement with fake badges or other items with law enforcement insignia.
- [FBI Crime Data Shows Washington Is The Second-Most Dangerous State](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/fbi-crime-data-shows-washington-is-the-second-most-dangerous-state/) - A new study has revealed Washington State is the second most dangerous state in the United States in which to raise a family, based on FBI crime data.
- [Whatcom County Considers Criminal Justice Sales Tax](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/whatcom-county-considers-criminal-justice-sales-tax/) - Whatcom County may implement a new sales tax of 0.1% for the sheriff’s office and other criminal justice costs. The tax could bring $7 million per year.
- [Happy New Year!](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/happy-new-year/) - December 31, 2008 Dear Clients, Friends, & Peers: The blog is officially up and running! Looking forward to 2009. Best wishes to you and your families. Please contact my office if you, a friend or family member are charged with a crime. Hiring an effective and competent defense attorney is the first and best step toward
- [Law Firm Client Obtains $150,000 Damages Award for Police Negligence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/law-firm-client-obtains-150000-damages-award-for-police-misconduct/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom Obtained $150,000.00 Damages Award for Police Negligence in Botched 911 Call.
- [Change Washington's Marijuana Laws](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/its-time-to-reform-was-marijuana-laws/) - Senate Bill 5615 could reclassify possession of small amounts of marijuana from a crime to a civil infraction and a $100 dollar fine.
- [Amend Washington's "Three Strikes" Law](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/amend-washingtons-three-strikes-law/) - The "Three Strikes" law does not deter crime and it disproportionately affects minority offenders.
- [Report finds inequalities in Washington criminal fines](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/report-finds-inequalities-in-washington-criminal-fines/) - A report finds wide disparities in how much Washington's criminal defendants are required to pay in fines and fees.
- [Can't Afford to Hang 'Em Anymore](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/cant-afford-to-hang-em-anymore/) - Some states are passing legislation to end the death penalty over -- gasp -- financial concerns!
- [Increased Numbers On Parole & Probation in WA](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/increased-numbers-on-parole-probation-in-wa/) - Washington must find ways to pay for a steadily growing number of people on probation and parole.
- [Defendants Could Be Free From Probation](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/defendants-could-be-free-from-probation/) - Lawmakers, facing an $8 billion budget deficit, are looking for ways to save money.
- [Decades of Disparity: Drug Arrests and Race in the United States](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/decades-of-disparity-drug-arrests-and-race-in-the-united-states/) - New drug arrest data shows the persistence and extent of racial disparities in the "War on Drugs" in the United States.
- [Retired Judge Says It Is Time To End War On Marijuana](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/retired-judge-says-it-is-time-to-end-war-on-marijuana/) - Retired Whatcom County Judge Says It Is Time To End War On Marijuana
- [State v. Brooks: WA Court Rightfully Dismisses Criminal Charges Because Prosecution Withheld Evidence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/excellent-decision-wa-court-dismisses-criminal-chargess-because-prosecution-withheld-evidence/) - WA Court of Appeals dismissed a criminal case due to prosecutorial mismanagement and withholding of evidence.
- [Kitsap Jury Acquits Medical Marijuana Defendant](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/kitsap-jury-acquits-medical-marijuana-defendant/) - A medical marijuana patient being prosecuted in Kitsap County Superior Court for drug trafficking was found not guilty
- [Drug Courts Huge Success](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/drug-courts-are-huge-success/) - A National Study found that Drug Courts are widely succesful.
- [State v. Dingman: Trial Court Erred in Denying Defendant's Discovery Requests](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/great-court-decision-trial-court-erred-in-denying-defendants-discovery-requests/) - Court ruled that Prosecutor is obligated to disclose all tangible objects in its possession which were obtained from or belonged to the defendant.
- [State v. Ramos: Excellent Separation of Powers Case](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-ramos-excellent-separation-of-powers-case/) - Court says the authority to define crimes and set punishments rests squarely with the legislature. Not the prosecutor, not the sheriffs, but the legislature.
- [Boom in Gun Sales Fueled by Politics and the Economy](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/boom-in-gun-sales-fueled-by-politics-and-the-economy/) - The Increase follows people's belief they'll lose gun rights under Obama's administration and there's growing concern the police cannot adequately protect us.
- [Closing Prisons, Slashing Sentences Eyed to Balance Budget](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/closing-prisons-slashing-sentences-eyed-to-balance-budget/) - Washington and other states' lawmakers are considering budget cuts that would close prisons, loosen sentencing guidelines and slash probation terms.
- [State v. Sutherby: Great Case Regarding Improper Prosecution and Ineffective Assistance of Counsel](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-sutherby-great-case-regarding-improper-prosecution-and-ineffective-assistance-of-counsel/) - Supreme Court threw out a child rape conviction for improper prosecution and ineffective counsel.
- [New Findings: Decline in Black Incarceration for Drug Offenses](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-findings-decline-in-black-incarceration-for-drug-offenses/) - For the first time in 25 years, since the "war on drugs," the number of African Americans incarcerated is state prisons for drug offenses has declined.
- [State v. Carneh: Why Defense Attorneys Should Seek Dismissals WITH Prejudice](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-carneh-why-defense-attorneys-should-seek-dismissals-with-prejudice/) - In State v. Carneh, the WA Court of Appeals decided the Prosecution could refile charges on a defendant after previously dismissing the case WITHOUT prejudice.
- [‘How can you defend those people?’](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/how-can-you-defend-those-people/) - Great article discusses why defense attorneys continue to zealously defend people accused of crime.
- [Study: Drug, Driving Charges Sap Nation's Courts](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/study-drug-driving-charges-sap-nations-courts/) - Low-level drug and driving charges are a financial burden for misdemeanor courts.
- [DOC: Budget Cuts Will Force Offenders To Go Unsupervised](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/doc-budget-cuts-will-force-offenders-to-go-unsupervised/) - Department of Corrections Secretary Eldon Vail says the DOC will stop supervising 9,000 people due to decreased state budgets. Some worry crime will increase.
- [Voting Rights Restored!](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/voting-rights-restored/) - The successful passage of HB 1517 will automatically restore the right to vote to citizens who were entangled with the criminal justice system.
- [White House Czar Calls for End to 'War on Drugs'](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/white-house-czar-calls-for-end-to-war-on-drugs/) - White House drug czar open to rethinking government's approach to fighting drug use.
- [State v. Hinshaw: Absent Exigent Circumstances, Cops Can't Enter Your Home Without a Warrant & Arrest for DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-hinshaw-cops-cant-enter-your-home-without-a-warrant-arrest-for-dui/) - Absent Exigent Circumstances, Cops Can't Enter A Home Without a Warrant & Arrest Defendants for DUI
- [Threats To Federal Judges, Prosecutors Soaring](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/threats-to-federal-judges-prosecutors-soaring/) - Threats against the nation's judges and prosecutors have sharply increased, prompting hundreds to get 24-hour protection from armed U.S. marshals.
- [Ex-con's Magazine Focuses on Advocacy, Prison Life](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/ex-cons-magazine-focuses-on-advocacy-prison-life/) - Paul Wright Was once a killer and a prisoner. Now he's a journalist with a cause. He has carved out a niche with his Prison Legal News, a self-help magazine.
- [Imprisoned Undocumented Immigrants May Soon Face Early Deportation](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/imprisoned-undocumented-immigrants-may-soon-face-deportation/) - Hundreds of undocumented immigrants in WA prisons will be deported at the end of their sentences. But state officials want to deport them early to save money.
- [State v. Garvin: WA Supremes Held "Squeeze Search" Unlawful](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-garvin-wa-supremes-held-squeeze-search-unlawful/) - In State v. Garvin, the WA Supreme Court held that police officers cannot “squeeze” a defendant’s pockets to determine the nature of objects in the pocket.
- [Waiving or Reducing Interest on Court Fines](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/waiving-or-reducing-interest-costs-on-court-fines/) - ACLU created a guide which provides information and forms on how to obtain a court order waiving or reducing interest on legal financial obligations.
- [Class Action Lawsuit Challenges "Camera Tickets"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/class-action-lawsuit-challenges-camera-tickets/) - A Law Firm in Seattle is researching a class action law suit against many Washington cities that operate red light and speed zone cameras in Washington.
- [US Supremes Rule Convicted Defendants Have No Right To Test DNA](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/238/) - Supreme Court decided convicts have no right to test DNA evidence in hopes of proving their innocence long after they were found guilty of a crime.
- [Melendez-Diaz v. Massachusetts: Protecting the Right to Confront Witnesses](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/melendez-diaz-v-massachusetts-protecting-the-right-to-confront-witnesses/) - Crime lab reports are inadmissible against criminal defendants at trial unless the analysts responsible testifies and subject themselves to cross-examination.
- [From the Glass to the Brain in Six Minutes](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/from-the-glass-to-the-brain-in-six-minutes/) - Scientists is Heidelberg discovered that alcohol affects brain cells six minutes after consumption.
- [State v. Redding: U.S. Supreme Court Declares Strip Search of 13-Year-Old Student Unconstitutional](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-supreme-court-declares-strip-search-of-13-year-old-student-unconstitutional/) - The U.S. Supreme Court ruled school officials violated the constitutional rights of a minor who was strip searched based on accusations that she had drugs.
- [State v. Engel: WA Supreme Court Reversed Overly Broad Burglary Conviction](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-engel-the-court-reversed-overly-broad-burglary-conviction/) - A man suspected of stealing aluminum auto wheels from a business wasn't guilty of Burglary in the Second Degree because the property wasn't fenced on all sides.
- [New National Report: 1 in 11 Prisoners Serving a Life Sentence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-national-report-1-in-11-prisoners-serving-a-life-sentence/) - A new report finds 140,610 individuals are now serving life sentences in state and federal prisons, 6,807 of whom were juveniles at the commission of the crime.
- [Why Henry Louis Gates Should Sue](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/why-henry-louis-gates-should-sue/) - Finally, lawsuits can be an important tool for reform when coupled with advocacy and public education efforts when the circumstances are conducive to change.
- [When Men Are Victims of Domestic Violence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/when-men-are-victims-of-domestic-violence/) - Article discusses domestic violence when the perpetrator is female and the victim is male.
- [Bellingham Police Department Launches Anti-Crime Team](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellingham-police-department-launches-anti-crime-team/) - Bellingham's finest created a five-person police team and follow up on -- the number of 911 calls the police department receives.
- [State v. McCormick: Sex Offender's Suspended Sentence Remains Revoked](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-mccormick-sex-offenders-suspended-sentence-remains-revoked/) - WA Supreme Court revokes a sex offender's SSOSA sentence for violating conditions of release.
- [State v. Rivera-Santos: Why Crossing State Lines - Intoxicated - Is Double Trouble](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-rivera-santos-why-crossing-state-lines-intoxicated-is-double-trouble/) - WA Supreme Court ruled that defendant, who drove under the influence in both Washington and Oregon, could be convicted of a DUI in both states.
- [State v. Kyllo: When It Makes Sense, Argue Self Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-kyllo/) - State v. Kyllo concerns whether defendant Kyllo received effective counsel in his trial for second degree assault of a fellow inmate.
- [True Stories of False Confessions: New Book Explains Why People Confess to Crimes They Didn't Commit.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/true-stories-of-false-confessions-new-book-explains-why-people-confess-to-crimes-they-didnt-commit/) - True Stories of False Confessions: New Book Explains Why People Confess to Crimes They Didn't Commit.
- [State v. Eriksen: Tribal Officers Can Pursue Suspects Off the Reservation](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-eriksen-tribal-officers-can-pursue-suspects-off-the-reservation/) - Under State v. Eriksen, Tribal Officers Can Pursue and Pull oVer Suspects Off the Reservation.
- [X52 Program Leads to Increased DUI Patrols and Arrests](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/x52-program-leads-to-increased-dui-patrols-and-arrests/) - The state released $450,000 worth of grants to local law enforcement agencies to help provide additional drunk driving and speed patrols every week this year.
- [Seattle v. St. John: Police May Obtain a Search Warrant For a Blood Sample When Motorists Refuse to Give Breath Test.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/seattle-v-st-john-police-may-obtain-a-search-warrant-for-a-blood-sample-when-motorists-refuse-to-give-breath-test/) - WA Supreme Court Rules Police May Obtain a Search Warrant For a Blood Sample When Motorists Refuse to Give Breath Test.
- [Too Much Information: Blogging Lawyers Face Ethical and Legal Problems](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/too-much-information-blogging-lawyers-face-ethical-and-legal-problems/) - Blogging Lawyers Face Ethical and Legal Problems
- [State v. Kenyon: Courtroom Congestion Is No Reason For Delay](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-kenyon-courtroom-congestion-is-no-reason-for-delay/) - Great opinion from WA Supremes on the Speedy Trial Rule: Courtroom Congestion Is Not An Adequate Reason For Delay And/Or Violation of Speedy Trial Rights
- [State v. Stately: Vehicular Homicide By Disregard Is NOT A Violent Offense; Some Defendants Eligible for First Offender Waiver.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-stately-vehicular-homicide-by-disregard-is-not-a-violent-offense-and-is-eligible-for-first-offender-waiver/) - WA Court of Appeals Decides Vehicular Homicide By Disregard Is NOT a Violent Crime.
- [State v. Iniguez: How Were the Defendant's Speedy Trial Rights NOT Violated?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-iniguez-how-are-the-defendants-speedy-trial-rights-not-violated/) - WA Supreme Court decides defendant's speedy trial rights were not violated.
- [9th Circuit's Search & Seizure Outline](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/9th-circuits-search-seizure-outline/) - 9th Circuit's Search & Seizure Outline
- [Visiting Hours Reduced At Whatcom County Jail](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/visiting-hours-reduced-at-whatcom-county-jail/) - Visiting Hours Reduced At Whatcom County Jail
- [State v. King: Out-Of-Jurisdiction Police Cannot Arrest Unless Emergency Exists](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/372/) - Police Acting Out of Their Jurisdiction Cannot Pull Over or Arrest Citizens Unless An Emergency Exists.
- [State v. Patton: WA Supreme Court Acknowledges Search and Seizure Protections Afforded by Arizona v. Gant.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-patton-wa-improves/) - WA Supreme Court Acknowledges Search and Seizure Protections Afforded by Arizona v. Gant.
- [Seattle v. Winebrenner/Seattle v. Quezada: Court finds Lenity for Defendants In the Face of Statutory Ambiguity](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/seattle-v-winebrennerseattle-v-quezada-court-finds-lenity-for-defendants-in-the-face-of-statutory-ambiguity/) - A "prior offense" applies only to offenses that occurred before the current offense, and does not encompass all offenses the defendant has before sentencing.
- [Heroin Use On the Rise in Whatcom County](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/heroin-use-on-the-rise-in-whatcom-county/) - Heroin doesn't have to be injected anymore, it's fairly easy to get, addicts are getting younger and, it's cheaper than drugs that offer similar highs.
- [Amid Recession Meth Menace Evolves](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/amid-recession-meth-menace-evolves/) - Article describes how the meth problem has grown in the face of dwindling State/County budgets.
- [State v. Winterstein: Parole Officers Cannot Search A Home If Facts Do Not Support the Officer’s Belief That Probationer Lives There.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-winterstein-probation-officers-cannot-search-of-a-home-if-facts-do-not-support-the-officers-belief-that-probationer-lives-there/) - WA Supreme Court decides parole officer violated defendant's rights when officer searched defendant's home for contraband without any probable cause.
- [State v. Saunders: A Court Should Not Grant Continuances Without Valid Reasons](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-saunders-a-court-should-not-grant-continuances-without-valid-reasons/) - Court of Appeals rejects lower court's continuances as "manifestly unreasonable and exercised on untenable grounds for untenable reasons."
- [Police Officer Says Public Safety May Be In Danger If Cuts Continue](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/police-officer-says-public-safety-may-be-in-danger-if-cuts-continue/) - Police Officer Says Public Safety May Be In Danger If Cuts Continue.
- [Jails In Indian Country](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/jails-in-indian-country/) - The U.S. Department of Justice recently conducted a survey of jails in Indian Country.
- [State v. Harrington: "Progressive Intrusion" = Unlawful Search](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-harrington-progressive-intrusion-unlawful-search/) - Police unlawfully searched/seized the defendant prior to arrest, in violation of WA Constitution; requiring supression of drugs found on his person.
- [New Statistics From the Bureau of Justice Shows Overall Decrease In Prison Populations](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/437/) - The Bureau of Justice just released two bulletins last week which examine the numbers of defendants under probation or parole supervision for 2008.
- [Despite More Jobless, Crime Rates Fall](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/despite-more-jobless-crime-rates-fall/) - Crime has decreased during this recession, making it different from other economic downturns of the past half-century.
- [Prisons Are Still Growing and Racial Disparities Persist, Despite Availability of Cost-Effective Alternatives](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/prisons-are-still-growing-and-racial-disparities-persist-despite-availability-of-cost-effective-alternatives/) - Last week, the Department of Justice released its annual survey of prisons.
- [State v. Buelna Valdez: Search Incident to Arrest is Invalid (Tip of the Hat To Arizona V. Gant)](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-buelna-valdez-search-incident-to-arrest-is-invalid-tips-of-the-hat-to-arizona-v-gant/) - WA Supreme Court affirms Arizona v. Gant and decides the search of a vehicle incident to arrest was invalid.
- [Proposed Law Changes To Prevent Future Police Murders](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/proposed-law-changes-to-prevent-future-police-murders/) - Proposed legislation seeks increased punishments for those convicted of murdering police, or aiding and abetting those who do.
- [American Law Institute Abandons the Death Penalty](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-american-law-institute-abandons-the-death-penalty/) - American Law Institute, which created the framework for the modern capital justice system, pronounced its project a failure and walked away from it.
- [Washington Supreme Court Statistics: 2009](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-supreme-court-statistics-2009/) - WA Supreme Court blog tracks the opinions and votes of each WA Supreme Court justice and provides a spreadsheet with case-by-case breakouts.
- [State v. Pugh: WA Supremes Admit "Excited Utterance" Hearsay Evidence of 911 Call; Disregard State v. Crawford](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-pugh/) - WA Supremes Admit "Excited Utterance" Hearsay Evidence of 911 Call; Disregarding State v. Crawford
- [Program That Gives Suspended Drivers a Second Chance Finds Success](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/program-that-gives-suspended-drivers-a-second-chance-finds-success/) - Suspended drivers can earn a fresh start, and taxpayers save money in the bargain.
- [Washington State Felons Should Have Voting Rights, Federal Court Rules](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/501/) - Federal court tossed out Washington's law banning incarcerated felons from voting, finding WA's criminal-justice system is infected with racial discrimination.
- [State v. Drum: Good Decision Regarding Stipulated Evidence At Drug Court Trials](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-drum-wa-supremes-discuss-stipulated-evidence-drug-court-trials/) - WA Supremes held a trial court may find a defendant NOT GUILTY if it determines that the stipulated evidence does not establish all of the elements of a crime.
- [State v. Erickson: Probation Officers Have Too Much Power](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-erickson-probation-officers-given-too-much-power/) - WA Supremes decided a court may issue a warrant without probable cause on the allegations after the defendant fails to appear at a probation violation hearing.
- [State v. A.N.J: WA Supremes Withdraw Guilty Plea Due To Ineffective Assistance of Counsel](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-anj-wa-supremes-withdraw-guilty-plea-due-to-ineffective-assistance-of-counsel/) - WA Supreme Court ruled that appointed counsel was ineffective.
- [State v. Harris: A Defendant May Argue Gant On Appeal Even Though It Was Not Argued At Trial.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-harris-a-defendant-may-argue-gant-on-appeal-even-though-it-was-not-argued-at-trial/) - A defendant who did not bring a suppression motion prior to trial, may assert a claim under Gant v. Arizona for the first time on appeal.
- [Whatcom County Jail Gets Record Number of Inmates](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/whatcom-county-jail-gets-record-number-of-inmates/) - Whatcom County Jail's population hit a record high over Presidents Day weekend. Law enforcement agencies have been booking fewer people to ease the crowding.
- [Bellingham Police Suffer Cuts To Salaries, Hours](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellingham-police-suffer-cuts-to-salaries-hours/) - A citywide hiring freeze has spurred Bellingham police to call on the City Council and the mayor, asking them to replenish the number of officers on duty.
- [State v. Dow: Corpus Delicti vs. RCW 10.58.03](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-dow-corpus-delicti-vs-rcw-105803/) - RCW 10.58.035 does NOT change the corpus delicti rule that the State must prove every element of a crime by evidence independent of the defendant’s statement.
- [State v. Hammock: Home-Made Guns Are Still Firearms](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-hammock-home-made-guns-are-still-firearms/) - WA Court of Appeals decides a hollowed-out bolt, in which a bullet is inserted, and when used with a hammer to strike the bullet, is a firearm.
- [Break The Law And Your New "Friend" Might Be The FBI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/break-the-law-and-your-new-friend-might-be-the-fbi/) - U.S. law enforcement agents are tracking social-networking services with false online profiles to communicate with suspects and gather information.
- [WA Changes Execution Method](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-changes-execution-method/) - Washington state has changed its method of execution from a three-drug cocktail to a one-drug system.
- [State v. Eaton: A Defendant's Sentence Cannot Be Enhanced For Involunatry Acts](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-eaton-a-defendants-sentence-cannot-be-enhanced-for-involunatry-acts/) - WA Supremes decide a defendant must act volitionally - with intent - to put himself within a zone that requires an upward sentencing enhancement.
- [Berghuis v. Smith: Defining the Hardship of Obtaining an Impartial "Cross Section" of the Jury Community](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/berghuis-v-smith-jury-selection/) - U.S. Supremes drafted a tight, well-reasoned opinion about jury selection from a cross-section of the community.
- [How To Protect Your Rights On Facebook](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/how-to-protect-your-rights-on-facebook/) - Think twice before posting those party pictures on Facebook. Law Enforcement agencies are scouring your profile for evidence of criminal activity.
- [Justice Stevens Retiring From Supreme Court](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/justice-stevens-retiring-from-supreme-court/) - Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens the court's oldest member and leader of its liberal bloc, is retiring.
- [Padilla v. Kentucky: Noncitizens Entering Guilty Pleas + Bad Legal Advice = DEPORTATION!](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/padilla-v-kentucky-noncitizens-entering-guilty-pleas-bad-legal-advice-deportation/) - Defense attorneys representing aliens charged with crimes have a constitutional obligation to tell the client that a guilty plea carries a risk of deportation.
- [Extra Police On The Prowl For Speeders](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/extra-police-on-the-prowl-for-speeders/) - Law enforcement agencies statewide will crack down on speeding with extra patrols on local roads, state highways and interstate freeways.
- [State v. Jones: Rape Shield Statute vs. Defendant's Right to Testify](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-jones/) - Court Decides Washington's "Rape Shield Statute" does not prevent questioning the victim’s sexual conduct during a wild sex party on the night of the incident.
- [State v. Hall: WA Supremes Determine The "Unit of Prosecution" For Multiple Charges of Witness Tampering](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-hall-wa-supremes-determine-the-unit-of-prosecution-for-multiple-charges-of-witness-tampering/) - WA Supremes decided that an incarcerated defendant's numerous phone calls to a witness constituted only one charge of Witness Tampering.
- [Seattle Mayor Vetoes Aggressive Panhandling Bill](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/seattle-mayor-vetoes-aggressive-panhandling-bill/) - Seattle Mayor struck down a controversial ordinance which criminalized panhandling.
- [State v. Paumier: Court Upholds the Right to Public Trial & Self-Representation](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-paumier-court-upholds-the-right-to-public-trial-self-representation/) - WA Court reversed defendant's convictions because the trial court excluded public citizens from part of his trial and denied his right to represent himself.
- [Speeders On Strapped Cities' Radar](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/speeders-on-strapped-cities-radar/) - Traffic citations are a revenue-builder for municipalities undergoing the brunt of a deteriorating economy, budget cuts and layoffs.
- [Graham v. Florida: Court Strikes Down "Cruel & Unusual" Sentencing on Minor](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/graham-v-florida-court-strikes-down-cruel-unusual-sentencing-on-minor/) - Sentencing an offender to life in prison without parole when the crime does not involve murder violates the 8th Amendment's ban on cruel and unusual punishment.
- [State v. Sublett: Defendant's Right to be Present at Trial DOES NOT Extend to Questions Submitted by Jury and Answered in Judge's Chambers](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-sublett-more-trouble-from-judges-chambers/) - A conference held by the trial judge in response to a question from the jury did not violate the defendant’s right to an open and public trial.
- [Yes, Crime Is Down . . . But For How Long?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-reality-of-the-situation-is-crime-is-down/) - Crime in the United States dropped dramatically in 2009, bucking a historical trend that links rising crime rates to economic woes.
- [Berghuis v. Thompkins: Miranda Applies, BUT Defendants MUST Clearly Invoke Constitutional Rights](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/berghuis-v-thompkins-miranda-applies-but-defendants-must-clearly-invoke-their-rights/) - U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a criminal suspect must specifically invoke the right against self-incrimination in order for constitutional protections to apply.
- [Domestic Violence Brutality Increasing in Whatcom County](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/domestic-violence-brutality-increasing-in-whatcom-county/) - An unprecedented series of domestic-violence slayings in the last 15 months has raised concerns across Whatcom County.
- [Racial Disparities In Jury Selection Still Exist](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/racial-disparities-in-jury-selection-still-exist/) - Racial exclusion in jury selection is still common, according to a study of practices in southern states.
- [State v. Nason: "Automatic Jail" Held Unconstitutional](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-nason-automatic-jail-held-unconstitutional/) - WA Supremes decided that imposing "auto jail" on defendants who can't pay their legal financial obligations violates due process and constitutional rights.
- [Debate Continues Over Putting New Jail Outside of Bellingham](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/debate-continues-over-putting-new-jail-outside-of-bellingham/) - Whatcom County has been working since 2003 to choose the site of a new jail as the current facility has become dilapidated and overcrowded.
- [New Study Shows Immigration Reduces Violent Crime](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-study-shows-immigration-reduces-violent-crime/) - Cities that experienced higher influxes of foreign-born and new immigrant populations also experienced lower rates of homicides and robberies.
- [State v. Harvill: The "Duress" Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-harvill-the-duress-defense/) - WA Supremes held that the trial court abused its discretion by disallowing the defendant to argue the defense of Duress.
- [State v. Tibbles: "Exigent Circumstances" for Warrantless Search = Unlawful Search](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-tibbles-exigent-circumstances-or-unlawful-search/) - Court held search of a defendant was not justified by exigent circumstances and the marijuana obtained as a result of the search should have been suppressed.
- [Bellingham Wants Red-Light Cameras](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellingham-wants-red-light-cameras/) - The City of Bellingham could install an enforcement camera at Holly and Forest streets, the worst intersection in terms of T-bone crashes.
- [State v. Maddox: Great Decision on Unlawful Vehicle Searches](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-maddox-great-decision-on-unlawful-vehicle-searches/) - Evidence found during inventory search was suppressed. The car was not impeding traffic, it was not abandoned, and the driver offered to have his friend get it.
- [State v. Afana: ANOTHER Awesome Decision re. Illegal Car Searches](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-afana-another-awesome-decision-re-illegal-car-searches/) - The WA Supremes decided the warrantless search of a vehicle incident to arrest was unlawful, and there is no good faith exception under the WA Constitution.
- [State v. Adams: The WA Supremes On a Hot Roll With Yet ANOTHER Decision re. Illegal Car Searches](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-adams-the-wa-supremes-on-a-hot-roll-with-yet-another-decision-re-illegal-car-searches/) - The WA Supremes issued State v. Tibbles, State v. Afana and now State v. Adams; all three decisions upholding the U.S. Supreme Court's Arizona v. Gant.
- [Red Light Cameras: The Saga Continues](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/red-light-cameras-the-saga-continues/) - "License Plate Sprays" and other attempts to conceal license plate photographs are ineffective.
- [Study Contends Pot Is Not a Major "Gateway Drug"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/study-contends-pot-isnt-a-major-gateway-drug/) - A new report casts doubt on the argument that marijuana is a "gateway drug" that plays a major role in leading people to try other illegal drugs.
- [Whatcom County Cops Bust 63 Drivers In Latest DUI Campaign](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/whatcom-county-cops-bust-63-drivers-in-latest-campaign/) - Whatcom County law enforcement agencies arrested 63 people for alleged DUI's during the latest enforcement campaign which started Aug. 12 and ended Sept. 6.
- [Study Shows How the Innocent Confess to Crimes](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/study-shows-how-the-innocent-confess-to-crimes/) - People who are uninvolved in a crime could, under duress, provide such a detailed account of what occurred; thus allowing prosecutors to press charges.
- [Local Roundabouts Show No Spike in Crashes/Injuries, BUT . . .](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/local-roundabouts-show-no-spike-in-crashes-or-injuries-but/) - Local roundabouts in Whatcom County could be "zones" where police officers stop motorists for traffic infractions and/or DUI investigations.
- [Make New Crack Law Retroactive](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/make-new-crack-law-retroactive/) - Obama considers weakening federal crack cocaine laws and making new laws apply retroactively.
- [State v. Doughty: WA Supremes Limit Scope of Terry Stops](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-doughty-wa-supremes-limit-scope-of-terry-stops/) - A defendant's brief visit to a suspected drug house at 3:20 in the morning is insufficient grounds for an investigative, search and seize them.
- [City of Aberdeen v. Regan: When Unfound Accusations Violate Probation](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/city-of-aberdeen-v-regan-when-mere-accusations-go-too-far/) - WA Supremes held that a defendant’s probation was properly revoked after the defendant was merely accused, but found not guilty, of misdemeanor crimes.
- [Child Witness Competency](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-sjw-child-witnesses-competency/) - Children who lack competency to testify are unsound, intoxicated, incapable of receiving just impressions of the facts, and/or incapable of being truthful.
- [Prosecutorial Misconduct Is Rarely Punished, Says New Study](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/prosecutorial-misconduct-is-rarely-punished-says-new-study/) - According to a recent report, only a tiny percentage of prosecutors who engaged in misconduct were disciplined by the State Bar during a 12-year period.
- [State v. Garcia-Salgado: DNA Swab is Unlawful if State Lacks Warrant Supported By Probable Cause](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-garcia-salgado-dna-swab-is-unlawful-if-state-lacks-warrant-supported-by-probable-cause/) - WA Supreme Court held that collecting a DNA swab from defendant was unlawful search without a warrant and without probable cause.
- [State v. Werner: Who Let The Dogs Out?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-werner-who-let-the-dogs-out/) - A defendant is entitled to self-defense after accidentally discharging a firearm when confronted by a neighbor's pack of dangerous dogs.
- [Bellingham Council Decides To Adopt Cameras Without a Public Hearing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellingham-council-decides-to-adopt-cameras-without-a-public-hearing/) - City Council members have decided they want to install red-light and speed-zone cameras without holding a public hearing.
- [State v. Hirschfelder: Sexual Relations Between a Student and a School Employee](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-hirschfelder-sexual-relations-between-a-student-and-a-school-employee/) - According to WA Supreme Court, the term "minor" includes students between the ages of 18 and 21, rather than just those under 18.
- [The Sentencing Project Releases New Publication on Prison Deterrence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-sentencing-project-releases-new-publication-on-prison-deterrence/) - A new report addresses questions regarding whether deterrence is better achieved by increasing the likelihood of apprehension or the severity of sanctions.
- [It’s a Bad Time For Job Seekers With Criminal Records](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/its-a-bad-time-for-job-seekers-with-criminal-records/) - As difficult as the recession has been on people, it's twice as difficult for people with a felony to make it in this economy.
- [Bellingham's New Noise Ordinance: A Step In the Right Direction](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellinghams-new-noise-ordinance/) - Bellingham City Council members will vote on the creation of entertainment districts.
- [In re. Personal Restraint of Swenson](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/in-re-personal-restraint-of-steven-d-swensen/) - WA Court of Appeals decides a judge should disqualify themself from sentencing a defendant's case if the judge cannot be impartial.
- [Representing Veterans](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/representing-veterans/) - The Louisiana Public Defender Board and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs wrote a guide for public defense attorneys who represent veterans.
- [Mass Incarceration In America](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/mass-incarceration-in-america/) - The American Prospect magazine has just published the report, "Mass Incarceration in America."
- [The Inquest: A Step Toward Justice or Just a Step?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-inquest-a-step-toward-justice-or-just-a-step/) - There's lots of confusion about inquests. What are they? Who can participate? What findings can the jury make? This article addresses some of the questions.
- [Patrol Car Video in Fatal Shooting of Woodcarver Released](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/patrol-car-video-in-fatal-shooting-of-woodcarver-released/) - Patrol car video released from an officer's fatal meeting with John T. Williams does not show the shooting, but includes audio of their interaction.
- [Red Light Cameras Arrive in Spring 2011](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/red-light-cameras-arrive-in-spring-2011/) - Beginning April 1, Bellingham motorists will see traffic cameras at six locations that have been pinpointed as areas with high instances of traffic infractions.
- [Latest DUI Emphasis Patrol Nets 151 Whatcom County Drivers](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/latest-dui-emphasis-patrol-nets-151-whatcom-county-drivers/) - The latest "Drive Hammered, Get Nailed" campaign put resulted in 151 Whatcom County drivers being arrested on suspicion of DUI this holiday season.
- [State v. Irby: Jury Selection Gone Wrong](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/847/) - Defendant’s right to be present during jury selection was violated when the judge emailed the attorneys and said he would release certain jurors for hardship.
- [State v. Schultz: Warrantless Search of Home](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-schultz-warrantless-search-of-home/) - WA Supreme Court decides that granting a police officer's request to enter the home is not, by itself, permission and/or consent to search the home for drugs.
- [State v. Grier: Ineffective Assistance of Counsel](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-grier-ineffective-assistance-of-counsel/) - WA Supremes held that a defense attorney's "all or nothing" approach, in which "lesser included" jury instructions were rejected, was a legitimate trial tactic.
- [DUI Emphasis Patrol Begin June 24](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/dui-emphasis-patrol-begin-june-24/) - Extra DUI patrols will be on force in Whatcom County from June 24 through July 4.
- [Sheriff's Office Patrolling the Waters](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/sheriffs-office-patrolling-the-waters/) - Boaters hitting the water this summer should have a designated captain. The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office will launch patrols on waters starting June 24.
- [Holiday Season Brings Extra DUI Patrols](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/holiday-season-brings-extra-patrol-to-holiday-season/) - Washington State Patrol and other law enforcement will be putting extra time into finding drunk drivers this holiday season, starting Thursday, Nov. 24.
- ["New Approach" to Legalizing Marijuana](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/a-new-approach-to-legalizing-marijuana/) - A Group called New Approach Washington announced the filing of an initiative to the legislature to legalize and regulate the production and sale of marijuana.
- [Mount Vernon and Burlington Sued for Allegedly Violating Constitutional Rights of Indigent Defendants](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/mount-vernon-and-burlington-sued-for-allegedly-violating-constitutional-rights-of-indigent-defendants/) - Inmates in Skagit County jail filed a class action lawsuit against the cities of Mount Vernon and Burlington for failing to provide quality representation.
- [Increased DUI Patrols in Whatcom County](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/increased-dui-patrols-in-whatcom-county/) - Extra troopers, deputies and police officers will be on patrol in Whatcom County and around the state in an effort to get impaired drivers off the roads.
- [Extra DUI Patrols Nab 1,600 Washington Drivers](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/extra-dui-patrols-nab-1600-washington-drivers/) - Police across Washington state arrested more than 1,600 people during a recent drunken-driving enforcement campaign.
- [How Washington's New Marijuana Law Affects DUI Investigations?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washingtons-new-marijuana-law-how-it-affects-dui-investigations/) - Small amounts of marijuana will soon be legal under state laws in Washington. How will this change DUI investigations?
- [Federal Government Mum on Washington & Denver Legalizing Marijuana](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/federal-government-mum-on-washington-denver-legalizing-marijuana/) - it's not a major concern in Obama's administration to continue prosecuting citizens for possessing small amounts of marijuana in states that have legalized it.
- [Drug DUI: The Brass Tacks](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/drug-dui-the-brass-tacks/) - The passage of Washington Initiative 502 (I-502) has serious impacts on DUI investigations.
- [State v. Guevara: Stopping Schoolboys and Searching Them for Marijuana is Unlawful Without Probabale Cause.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-guevara/) - Court of Appeals decided a school resource officer who stopped a minor defendant and his friends for suspected drug use was acting unlawfully.
- [Can My Boss Fire Me For Smoking Marijuana?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/can-my-boss-fire-me-for-smoking-marijuana/) - Washington Supreme Court recently ruled that even though medical marijuana use is legal, employers may still terminate employees for using it.
- [New DUI Law: Ignition Interlock Devices Now Take Pictures of Driver](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-dui-law-ignition-interlock-devices-now-take-pictures-of-driver/) - Starting January 1, a camera will snap a picture every time their Ignition Interlock Device is used, verifying that the driver is the person who took the test.
- [DOL Fees Increase for Those Challenging Their Driver's License Suspensions Resulting From DUI Charges](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/dol-fees-increase-for-challenging-license-suspensions-resulting-from-dui-charges/) - it's now more expensive to challenge the DOL's suspension of licenses because the DOL recently raised the cost of an administrative hearing from $200 to $375.
- [Jury Nullification Bill Gaining Momentum](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/jury-nullification-bill-gaining-momentum/) - Pending legislation from Georgia would ensure jurors are informed of their rights to acquit defendants because the law was unjust and/or unconstitutional.
- [Legislature Considers Adding a Fourth Whatcom County Superior Court Judge](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legislature-considers-adding-a-fourth-whatcom-county-superior-court-judge/) - Whatcom County, Judge, Whatcom County Superior Court,
- [Supreme Court Wary of Warrantless Blood Tests in DUI Cases](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/us-supreme-court-wary-of-warrantless-blood-tests-in-dui-cases/) - The Supreme Court is considering requiring police to get a search warrant before forcing drunken-driving suspects to have blood draws.
- [Toxicologist Says, "No Spike YET In Marijuana DUI Arrests"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/toxicologist-says-no-spike-yet-in-marijuana-dui-arrests/) - The WA Sate Toxicologist hasn't seen a spike in positive blood tests for marijuana since pot became legal under Washington law.
- [Proposed Changes in DUI Laws: Draconian or Timely?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/proposed-changes-in-dui-laws-draconian-or-timely/) - The state Legislature shall consider strengthening DUI consequences in Washington.
- [Summer DUI Patrols Seek Prevention of "100 Deadliest Days."](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-dui-patrols-emphasize/) - Law enforcement agencies across the state are stepping up DUI patrols to help get impaired drivers off the road.
- [Whatcom DUI Patrols Nab 60 People](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/whatcom-dui-patrols-nab-60-people/) - Sixty people were arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence during county-wide emphasis patrols earlier this summer.
- [Are Washington's New Proposed DUI Laws Unconstitutional?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/governer-inslee-gets-tougher-on-dui-laws/) - Gov. Jay Inslee shall sign into law a measure to increase monitoring of motorists who repeatedly drive under the influence.
- [Seafair 2013 Brought Less Arrests for Boating Under the Influence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/decreased-arrests-for-boating-under-the-influence-bui-at-seafair/) - 34 people were cited for boating under the influence of drugs or alcohol (BUI) during the Seafair events on Lake Washington this weekend.
- [Drug Recognition Experts: The Newly Trained Weapon In Detecting Drug DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/drug-recognition-experts-the-newly-trained-weapon-in-detecting-drug-dui/) - Drug-Recognition Experts - nicknamed, "DRE's" - are highly trained law enforcement officers who help identify symptoms of impairment from alcohol and drugs.
- [State v. Saintcalle: The WA Supreme Court's Recent Ruling on Race Discrimination in Our Criminal Justice System](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-saintcalle-the-wa-supreme-courts-recent-ruling-on-race-discrimination-in-our-criminal-justice-system/) - A black defendant charged with murder claimed the Prosecutor unlawfully struck the only black juror in the jury pool, thus violating Batson v. Kentucky
- [The Brass Tacks: A Look at How Courts Are Automatically Imposing Ignition Interlock Devices ASAP](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-brass-tacks-a-look-at-how-courts-are-automatically-imposing-ignition-interlock-devices-asap/) - DUI defendants must install ignition interlock device on their motor vehicles if they have alcohol related priors within 7 years.
- [The Brass Tacks Part II: Increased Penalties for DUI if Child Under 16 In Vehicle](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-brass-tacks-part-ii/) - Proposed legislative changes include propositions increasing DUI penalties if there was a passenger under 16 in the car.
- [State v. Quaale: Mistrials Happen When Police Officers Offer Opinion Testimony](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-quaale-mistrials-happen-when-police-officers-offer-opinion-testimony/) - WA Court of Appeals decided a defendant’s right to a fair trial was violated when the Prosecutor invited objectionable testimony from the arresting officer.
- [More DUI Drivers Are Testing Positive for Marijuana](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/more-dui-drivers-are-testing-positive-for-marijuana/) - According to the Washington State Patrol, more drivers have been testing positive for marijuana since Washington legalized the drug last year.
- [Winter DUI Emphasis Patrols to Begin Again](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/winter-dui-emphasis-patrols-to-begin-again/) - All along the I-5 corridor from Canada to Mexico, law enforcement agencies begin emphasis enforcement on Wednesday, November 27, 2013.
- [State v. Green: When Inventory Searches Become Overbroad](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-green-when-inventory-searches-become-overbroad/) - WA Court of Appeals ruled evidence of Identity Theft inadmissible when police got the evidence after searching the defendant's car during DUI investigation.
- [State v. Ollivier: What Happens When the Defense Attorney Wants a Continuance and the Defendant Doesn't?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-ollivier-what-happens-when-the-defense-attorney-wants-a-continuance-and-the-defendant-doesnt/) - WA Supremes held a defendant's speedy trial rights were NOT violated when a defendant's attorney requested the continuance over the objection of his client.
- [Washington's New DUI Pilot Program: "Plea Tenderizing" Gains Momentum](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washingtons-new-dui-pilot-program/) - Starting January 1, intoxicated drivers charged with their second DUI in certain counties may face much tougher punishment after their second offense.
- [Whatcom County Domestic Violence Filings Increase](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/whatcom-county-domestic-violence-filings-increase/) - Bellingham Herald reported that in 2012, more protection orders were filed in Whatcom County and more people were booked into jail for domestic violence.
- [State v. Barry: Whether a Defendant's Demeanor Spells Trouble During Trial](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-barry-whether-a-defendants-demeanor-spells-trouble-during-trial/) - The Court of Appeals decided it does NOT violate a defendant's Constitutional rights to let the jury consider the defendant’s demeanor during trial.
- [State v. Roden: Text Messages Are Protected by Washington's Privacy Act](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-roden-text-messages-are-protected-by-washingtons-privacy-act/) - WA Supreme Court ruled Washington's Privacy Act is violated by a police officer's opening, reviewing, and responding to text messages sent to a suspect's phone.
- [How High Is Too High to Drive?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/how-high-is-too-high-to-drive/) - An interesting news article in the Bellingham Herald article discussed "how high is too high" to drive after smoking marijuana.
- [State v. Lindsay: When Attorneys Act Unprofessionally](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-lindsay-when-attorneys-act-poorly/) - Supreme Court reversed a defendant's conviction because lawyers engaged in unprofessional behavior by trading verbal jabs and snide remarks throughout trial.
- [State v. Finch: Can Defendants Force Victims to Get Polygraph Tests?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-polygraph-tests/) - WA Supreme Court denies a Defendant's request to order a rape victim to take a polygraph test.
- [When Prosecutors Violate the Advocate-Witness Rule: United States v. Rangel-Guzman](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/when-prosecutors-violate-the-advocate-witness-rule-united-states-v-rangel-guzman/) - 9th Circuit decides a Prosecutor wrongfully phrased cross-examination questions and violated the Advocate-Witness Rule.
- [Unlawful Frisking Violates Constitutional Rights](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/unlawful-frisking-state-v-russell/) - WA Supreme Court held that warrantless search of a small container found on a defendant's body exceeded the proper scope of a pat-down search.
- [State v. McNeely: U.S. Supreme Court Says Blood Draws Require a Warrant](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-mcneely-us-supreme-court-says-blood-draws-require-a-warrant/) - U.S. Supreme Court requires police officers to get search warrants for blood draws if emergency circumstances do not exist.
- [State v. Martines: More Good Caselaw on Blood Tests Taken After DUI Arrests](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-martines-more-good-caselaw-on-blood-tests/) - Police may not conduct test of blood samples without first obtaining a warrant that authorizes testing and describes the types of evidence sought after.
- [DUI Patrols To Run Through Sept. 1 in Whatcom County](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/dui-emphasis-patrols-to-run-through-sept-1-in-whatcom-county/) - Emphasis patrols are looking for intoxicated drivers in Whatcom and Skagit counties.
- [State v. Saggers: When Officers Exceed the Scope of Searches Under Terry v. Ohio](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-saggers-when-officers-exceed-the-scope-of-searches-under-terry-v-ohio/) - Police officers exceeded the scope of a Terry stop when an informant's tip is questionably (un)reliable and the seriousness of the offense has dissipated.
- [State v. Brock: The "Time for Arrest" Doctrine](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-brock-the-time-for-arrest-doctrine/) - Court decides police officers cannot search someone's backpack and arrest them for possession of illegal substances 10 minutes after contacting the suspect.
- [State v. McDonald: Prior Misdemeanor DV Convictions Count Toward Pointable "Offender Score" in Present Felony DV Charges & Convictions.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-mcdonald-prtior-misdemeanor-dv-convictions-count-toward-pointable-offender-score-in-present-felony-dv-charges-convictions/) - Court ruled that violations of a DV No-Contact Order are included in an offender score for felony DV convictions.
- [State v. Foster: When Detainments for "Officer Safety" Violate People's Rights](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-foster/) - Court decides police officers cannot seize someone for "officer safety" reasons and keep them handcuffed indefinitely.
- [State v. Pinson: When Prosecutors Violate a Defendant's 5th Amendment Right](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-pinson-when-prosecutors-violate-a-defendants-5th-amendment-right-against-self-incrimination/) - Court held that Prosecutor violated a defendant's 5th Amendment rights by saying defendant was guilty because defendant did not talk to police when arrested.
- [Bellingham Police Want to Increase DUI Arrests By 50%](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellingham-police-department-expected-to-increase-dui-arrests-by-50/) - Drunk drivers will be targeted over the next year as Bellingham Police puts extra officers on the streets with state grant money.
- [State v. Merrill: Victim's Rights to Deny a Defense Attorney's Interview](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-merrill/) - An defense attorney may be sanctioned for contacting a DV victim after the victim has exercised her rights to have an DV advocate present at any interview.
- [State v. Westvang: Ferrier Warnings, Arrest Warrants & Questionable Searches of a Home.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-westvang-ferrier-warnings-arrest-warrants-questionable-searches-of-a-home/) - Ferrier Warnings are unnecessary when police officers obtain consent to enter a home in order to execute an arrest warrant on a fugitive.
- [State v. W.R.: Defendants Do NOT Need to Prove Consent in Rape Cases](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-wr-defendants-do-not-need-to-prove-consent-in-rape-cases/) - WA Supreme Court held that it violates due process to make a defendant prove consent when the crime charged is Rape in the Second Degree by Forcible Compulsion.
- [State v. Reeves: Retail Theft Charges Dismissed With Knapstad Motion](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-reeves-retail-theft-charges-dismissed-with-knapstad-motion/) - Washington Court of Appeals grants a defendant’s Knapstad motion to dismiss felony charges of Retail Theft.
- [Bellingham Police Start Using Body Cameras](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellingham-police-start-using-body-cameras/) - Bellingham Police officers are now wearing cameras to record audio and video of their interactions with the public.
- [WA Attorney General Says Police Do NOT Need Consent to Record Citizen Activities With Body Cameras](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-attorney-general-says-police-do-not-need-consent-to-record-with-body-cameras/) - Conversations between police and citizens may be recorded on police body cameras without consent.
- [Washington State Patrol Upgrades its DUI Breath-Test Machines](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-state-patrol-upgrades-its-dui-breath-test-machines/) - The State Patrol is replacing its old breath-test machines with sleek, fast, new $9,500 devices that are used to test drivers arrested on suspicion of DUI.
- [State v. Button: Public Shaming Sentence Struck](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-button-public-shaming-sentence-struck/) - Court of Appeals struck a public shaming requirement from a trial judge who sentenced a defendant to hold a sign saying, "I stole from children."
- [State v. Gunderson: Court Decides Prior "Bad Acts" of Domestic Violence Are Inadmissible](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-gunderson-court-decides-prior-bad-acts-of-domestic-violence-are-inadmissible/) - In State v. Gunderson, the Court of Appeals decided a trial judge improperly allowed evidence of the defendant's "prior bad acts" of domestic violence at trial.
- [State v. Jardinez: Parole Officer Conducts Overbroad Search of Defendant's iPod](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-jardinez-parole-officer-conducts-overbroad-search-of-defendants-ipod/) - A community corrections officer’s (CCO) review of video on a parolee’s iPod violated the parolee’s constitutional rights.
- [State v. Miller: Judge Eliminates Prospective Juror Who Overheard Pretrial Motions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-miller-judge-eliminates-prospective-juror-who-overheard-pretrial-motions/) - The WA Court of Appeals decided the dismissal of a potential juror who wandered into the court and heard the attorneys arguing pretrial motions was lawful.
- [State v. Espey: Prosecutor's Improper Comments During Trial Reverses Defendant's Convictions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-espey-prosecutors-improper-comments-during-trial-reverses-defendants-convictions/) - The Court of Appeals ruled that a Prosecutor's improper comments during a jury trial required reversal of the defendant's convictions.
- [State v. Quaale: WA Supreme Court Upholds WA Court of Appeals & Grants Mistrial Due To Trooper's Opinion Testimony](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-quaale-wa-supreme-court-upholds-wa-court-of-appeals-grants-mistrial-due-to-troopers-opinion-testimony/) - the WA Supreme Court upheld State v. Quaale, where a State Trooper's opinion regarding the defendant's sobriety violated the defendant's rights.
- [State v. Fedoruk: Ineffective Assistance AND Prosecutorial Misconduct](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-fedoruk-ineffective-assistance-and-prosecutorial-misconduct/) - Court overturns murder conviction because defense attorney didn't pursue a mental health defense and Prosecutor gave highly improper closing argument at trial.
- [State v. Witherrite: Ferrier Warnings Do Not Apply to Car Searches](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-witherrite-ferrier-warnings-do-not-apply-to-car-searches/) - Court of Appeals decided police officers need not give Ferrier warnings for car searches because an automobile should not be treated the same as a home.
- [State v. Goggin: Implied Consent Warnings for Blood Test & Crawford Issues](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-goggin-implied-consent-warnings-for-blood-test-crawford-issues/) - When a blood test is collected pursuant to a search warrant, police are not required to advise the defendant that the defendant has a right to additional tests.
- [State v. Lawson: Burglary & Voyeurism](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-lawson-burglary-voyeurism/) - WA Court of Appeals held that Voyeurism and Burglary exists when a male enters women’s restrooms and views females using the facilities.
- [State v. Nicholas: Court Rejects "Jury Nullification" Arguments](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-nicholas-jury-nullification/) - WA Court of Appeals raises and dismisses the issue of whether jury nullification has any place in jury deliberations.
- [State v. Huffman: Crossing the Centerline = DUI Arrest](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-huffman/) - WA Court of Appeals decided that a motorist's single crossing of the centerline is sufficient to justify a traffic stop for a violation of RCW 46.61.100.
- [State v. Davis: Unlawful Possession of Firearms, Rendering Criminal Assistance and Exceptional Sentences.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-davis-unlawful-possession-of-firearms-rendering-criminal-assistance-and-exceptional-sentences/) - Insufficient evidence exists to convict the defendants of gun charges in the Lakeside Police Officer Shootings; Exceptional Sentences were found inapplicable.
- [State v. Allen: Prosecutor Commits Misconduct With Phrase, "Should Have Known."](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-allen-prosecutor-commits-misconduct-with-phrase-should-have-known/) - WA Supreme Court ruled that the Prosecutor committed prejudicial misconduct by misstating the standard upon which the jury may convict an accomplice.
- [Attorney Alexander F. Ransom Makes "Top 100" List National Black Lawyers](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/attorney-alexander-f-ransom-makes-top-100-list-national-black-lawyers/) - Whatcom County Criminal Defense attorney Alexander Ransom was ranked "Top 100" and selected for membership within the prestigious National Black Lawyers.
- [State v. Walker: WA Supreme Court Decides Prosecutor's Powerpoint Presentation Violates Defendant's Right to Fair Trial](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-walker-wa-supreme-court-decides-prosecutors-powerpoint-presentation-violates-defendants-right-to-fair-trial/) - WA Supreme Court held the Prosecutor improperly used a PowerPoint presentation to convey egrigious misstatements which violated the defendant’s rights.
- [Attorney Alexander Ransom Accepted Into National College of DUI Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/attorney-alexander-ransom-accepted-into-national-college-of-dui-defense/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom became a General Member of the National College for DUI Defense, Inc.
- [State v. Rubio: "Exigent Circumstances" Found in Arrest for Possession of Methamphetamine](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-rubio-exigent-circumstances-found-in-arrest-for-possession-of-methamphetamine/) - Court upholds drug conviction because "exigent circumstances" existed to search and seize him because he had warrants for his arrest.
- [Attorney Alexander F. Ransom Awarded Client Distinction Award From Martindale-Hubbell](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/attorney-alexander-f-ransom-awarded-client-distinction-award-from-martindale-hubbell/) - Attorney Alexander F. Ransom has received the Martindale-Hubbell "Client Distinction" Award. Mr. Ransom practices criminal defense in Whatcom and Skagit County.
- [State v. Weller: Community Caretaking](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-weller-community-caretaking/) - Police interviewing children in a garage about child abuse is lawful under the "health check" and "community caretaking" exceptions to the warrant requirement.
- [State v. Larson: Retail Theft With Extenuating Circumstances](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-larson-retail-theft-with-extenuating-circumstances/) - Wire cutters used to sever the wire attaching a department store security device to Nike shoes are a “device designed to overcome security systems.”
- [What Caused the Decline In Crime?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/what-caused-the-decline-in-crime/) - A new report examines the dramatic drop in crime nationwide over the past two decades — and analyzes various theories for why it occurred.
- [State v. McPherson: Residential Burglary Involving A Dwelling/Business.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-mcpherson-residential-burglary-involving-a-dwellingbusiness/) - Court upholds conviction for Residential Burglary when a jewelry store and attached apartment is a “dwelling" under the statutory definition.
- [Marijuana / THC Breathalyzer Available Soon.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/marijuana-thc-breathalyzer-available-soon/) - A marijuana breathalyzer is being developed to give police officers an on-site tool to enhance detection of THC, the psychotropic metabolite in marijuana.
- [Washington Legislature Passes Bill Supporting DNA Testing of Rape Kits.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-legislature-passes-bill-supporting-dna-testing-of-rape-kits/) - House Committe votes "Yes" on House Bill 1068, which supports DNA testing of rape kits sitting in evidence rooms across Washington Counties.
- [Bill Seeks Prison Time for Drone Crimes](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bill-adds-prison-time-for-drone-crimes/) - WA Senate passed a bill that would allow prosecutors to seek an extra year in prison for offenders who use a drone aircraft while committing a crime.
- [State v. Vanness: Unlawful Search of a Lockbox Inside a Backpack](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-vanness-unlawful-search-of-a-lockbox-inside-a-backpack/) - Court decides search of lockbox inside a backpack was unlawful
- [Tribes Free To Prosecute Non-Indians for Certain Crimes](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tribes-free-to-prosecute-non-indians-for-certain-crimes/) - American Indian tribes that meet certain criteria now have the authority to prosecute non-Indians for a limited set of domestic violence crimes,
- [State v. Samalia: Search of Abandoned Cell Phone is Lawful](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-samalia-cell-phone-search-is-lawful/) - Court upheld defendant's conviction for Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle after police found the defendant's cell phone in the abandoned stolen vehicle.
- [State v. Budd: Ferrier Warnings Improperly Given](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-budd-ferrier-warnings-improperly-given/) - WA Court of Appeals decided law enforcement officers must correctly deliver all three parts of the Ferrier cautions before entering a person's residence.
- [Prosecutor Jailed for Bad Conviction](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/prosecutor-jailed-for-wrongful-conviction/) - In Texas, a former prosecutor and judge pled guilty to intentionally failing to disclose evidence in a case that sent an innocent man to prison.
- [Ignition Devices In All New Cars?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/sobriety-tests-in-all-new-cars/) - A fingerprint-based ignition-interlock device system may someday be installed in ALL new vehicles in the hopes of preventing Driving While Under the Influence.
- [State v. Henderson: Lesser Included Jury Instructions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-henderson-lesser-included-jury-instructions/) - The jury of a defendant charged with first degree murder should have been instructed on the lesser included offense of first degree manslaughter.
- [Attorney Alexander Joins the National Association Distinguished Counsel](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/attorney-alexander-joins-the-national-association-distinguished-counsel/) - The National Association of Distinguished Counsel selected attorney Alexander Ransom for membership among the nation's top attorneys.
- [State v. Manlove: "Deliberate Cruelty" Enhancements Apply to Property Crimes.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-manlove-deliberate-cruelty-enhancements-apply-to-property-crimes/) - Court of Appeals held that a upward sentencing enhancement applies to property crimes if the defendant's conduct was deliberately cruel to the victim.
- [Whatcom County Jail: An Inmate's Perspective](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/whatcom-county-jail-an-inmates-perspective/) - The Bellingham Herald discussed Whatcom County Jail's deplorable and dangerous conditions.
- [State v. Rich: No Reckless Endangerment Found in DUI Case](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-rich-no-reckless-endangerment-found-in-dui-case/) - WA Court of Appeals decided here is no ‘per se’ liability for Reckless Endangerment based on proof of DUI.
- [WA Legislature Considers Banning "Palcohol"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-legislature-considers-banning-palcohol/) - Washington is one of a growing number of states to try banning a new powdered alcohol product before it reaches liquor-store shelves.
- [Didlake v. DOL: Fees for DOL Hearings Held Constitutional](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/didlake-v-dol-fees-for-dol-hearings/) - Washington’s Implied Consent Statute, requiring drivers arrested for DUI to pay fees in order to have a hearing on their license suspensions, is constitutional.
- [State v. Ellison: No Right to Allocution](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-ellison-no-right-to-allocution/) - Defendant lost his right to give a statement at his sentencing because it was lengthy, irrelevant, he protested his innocence and accused his attorney of lying.
- [State v. MacDonald: Police Cannot Testify for Victims at Sentencing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-macdonald-police-cannot-testify-for-victims-at-sentencing/) - An investigating officer may not ask the judge for a sentence greater than that in the State’s plea agreement. These statements breach the agreement.
- [Dehydrated Drivers As Bad On The Road As Drunk Drivers, Study Suggests](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/dehydrated-drivers-as-bad-on-the-road-as-drunk-drivers-study-suggests/) - New research suggests that driving while dehydrated is equally as destructive as driving while drunk.
- [Study: Marijuana and Alcohol Doubles Odds for DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/study-marijuana-and-alcohol-doubles-odds-for-dui/) - A new study reveals simultaneous users of marijuana and alcohol had double the odds of drunk driving, social consequences, and harm to self and others.
- [Rodriguez v. United States: Nonconsensual Dog Sniff of Car Held Unconstitutional](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/rodriguez-v-united-states-dog-sniffs-held-unconstitutional/) - U.S. Supreme Court decides police extending a traffic stop to conduct a dog sniff violates the Constitution’s shield against unreasonable seizures.
- [State v. Jones: Slight Lane Travel = Unlawful Search](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-jones-court-of-appeals-supports-prado/) - Police do not have reasonable suspicion to stop a vehicle that crosses the fog line three times in a mile for violating the safe lane travel statute.
- [State v. Peppin: No Privacy for Public File Sharing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-peppin-no-privacy-for-public-file-sharing/) - Law enforcement’s warrantless use of enhanced peer to peer file sharing software to remotely access shared files on an individual’s computer is lawful.
- [Police Body Cameras: Privacy & Costs](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/police-body-cameras-privacy-costs/) - Recent backlash from law enforcement agencies has reignited the discussion of whether police body cameras are worth the trouble.
- [Case v. Montana: U.S. Supreme Court Addresses "Community Caretaking" Exception To The Warrant Requirement](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/case-v-montana-u-s-supreme-court-addresses-community-caretaking-exception-to-the-warrant-requirement/) - U.S. Supreme Court held police do not require Probable Cause to enter a home without a warrant in order to assist an occupant in need of emergency aid.
- [State v. Irby: A Juror's Bias Reverses Conviction](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-irby-a-jurors-bias-reverses-conviction/) - Court reversed defendant's murder conviction because a juror's remarks during jury selection indicated her express bias against the defendant
- [State v. A.A.: Unlawful Search of Juvenile](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-a-a-unlawful-search-of-juvenile/) - WA Court of Appeals decided an officer who detained a runaway juvenile unlawfully removed methamphetamine and marijuana from the youth’s pocket.
- [State v. I.B.: Shaking Your Head Means "No" Under Miranda](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-i-b-shaking-your-head-means-no-under-miranda/) - A juvenile suspect's shaking of his head in the negative after police asked him if he was willing to talk was an assertion of his 5th Amendment rights.
- [State v. Fuentes & Sandoz: Are Terry Stops Legal in High-Crime Areas?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-fuentes-sandoz-are-terry-stops-legal-in-high-crime-areas/) - WA Supreme Court analyzes Terry stops of defendants who entered a high-crime areas and visited homes occupied by suspected drug dealers.
- [State v. Reis: Search & Seizure in Medical Marijuana Case](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-reis-search-seizure-in-medical-marijuana-case/) - Although medical marijuana is a defense, police officers may execute search warrants if sufficient probabale cause of criminal activity exists.
- [State v. Howerton: Citizen 911 Call Supports Terry Stop](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-howerton-citizen-911-call-supports-terry-stop/) - A citizen's 911 call supported a Terry stop after she provided her name, address, telephone number and a statement 911 dispatch stating she observed a crime.
- [State v. Wisdom: Unlawful Search of Zipped Shaving Kit Bag](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-wisdom-unlawful-search-of-zipped-shaving-kit-bag/) - The warrantless inspection of a zipped shaving kit bag found in the front seat of a stolen vehicle was not a lawful search incident to arrest.
- [State v. Hardtke: Court Limits Costs of Pretrial Monitoring](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-hardtke-court-limits-costs-of-pretrial-monitoring/) - WA Supreme Court ruled that although a trial court has authority to impose the cost of pretrial electronic alcohol monitoring, the amount is capped at $150.00.
- [State v. Barry: Defendant's In-Court Demeanor Leads to Conviction](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-barry-defendants-in-court-demeanor-leads-to-conviction/) - WA Supreme Court ruled that a jury may consider observations of the defendant's actions and demeanor during the court case as "evidence."
- [Happy Hour in the USA: Not All States Are Created Equal](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/happy-hour-in-the-usa-not-all-states-are-created-equal/) - News article reviewed the 25 biggest metropolises in the U.S. to map where you can have Happy Hour and where you can’t.
- [New Technology Could End DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-technology-could-end-dui/) - Recent technological breakthroughs could virtually eliminate DUI's which kill thousands of Americans each year.
- [States With the Highest DUI Arrests](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/states-with-the-highest-dui-arrests/) - Today, a national study on DUI arrests was released. It compiled data from federal agencies to deduce where we're most likely to get arrested for a DUI.
- [State v. E.J.J.: Exercising Freedom of Speech is NOT Obstructing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-e-j-j-exercising-freedom-of-speech-is-not-obstructing/) - An offender who called police abusive names, yelled, and used profanity while the officers conducted a criminal investigation CANNOT be guilty of Obstructing.
- [State v. Flores: WA Court of Appeals Decides Frisk for Gun Was Unconstitutional](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-court-of-appeals-decides-frisk-for-gun-was-unconstitutional/) - Wa Appeals Court decides gun search was unlawful because there were no grounds to frisk the defendant.
- [Ohio v. Clark: Child Victim Hearsay Statements Are Admissible](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/ohio-v-clark-child-victim-hearsay-statements-are-admissible/) - Statements made by the 3-year-old victim to his preschool teacher were properly admitted at trial, despite the fact that the 3-year-old did not testify.
- [State v. Elkins: Officers Need Not Re-Advise Miranda in All Cases](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-elkins-officers-need-not-re-advise-miranda-in-all-cases/) - There is no bright-line rule requiring law enforcement officers to fully re-advise previously Mirandized suspects when reinitiating interrogation.
- [State v. Abitia: Sexual Assault Advocate's Testimony Was Improper](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-abitia-sexual-assault-advocates-testimony-was-improper/) - It was improper testimony that a Sexual Assault Advocate said that people who molest children often do not tell the truth when subjected to polygraph testing.
- [In re Detention of H.N.: Screenshots of Text Messages Are Admissible Evidence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/in-re-detention-of-h-n-screenshots-of-text-messages-are-admissible-evidence-at-trial/) - Court decides E-mailed screenshots of text messages that a medical expert used as part of her testimony were properly admitted as evidence at trial.
- [NY Politician Wants Ignition Interlock Devices in All New Vehicles](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/politician-introduces-legislation-seeking-installation-of-ignition-interlock-devices-in-all-new-vehicles/) - Politician introduces legislation requiring all new cars have ignition interlock device (IID) technology which detects a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC).
- [State v. Z.U.E.: Terry Stop Based on Unreliable Informant Tip Was Unlawful](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-z-u-e-terry-stop-based-on-unreliable-informant-tip-was-unlawful/) - When police stop an individual based on an informant’s tip, there must be some “indicia of reliability” based on the totality of the circumstances.
- [New Smartphone App Warns You When You’re Too Stoned To Drive](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-smartphone-app-warns-you-when-youre-too-stoned-to-drive/) - Canary has created a smartphone app which checks your mental and physical performance levels after ingesting marijuana and prior to driving.
- [Is Texting While Driving the New DUI?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/is-texting-while-driving-the-new-dui/) - Can Washington State follow other jurisdictions and have police officers disguised as construction workers observe and cite motorists who are texting?
- [State v. Strange: Was the Jury "Tainted" or Impartial?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-strange-was-the-jury-tainted-or-impartial/) - Court of Appeals decides jury pool was not tainted by the statements of a prospective juror who inferred there must be some truth to the criminal charges.
- [Bellingham Police Get Software to Map Crime Patterns](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellingham-police-get-software-to-map-crime-patterns/) - The Bellingham Police Department plans to buy "Predictive Policing Software" that will map crime patterns in the city and help officers decide where to patrol.
- [Drunk Driving Data Rates By State](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/drunk-driving-data-rates-by-state/) - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention conducted a survey asking how many times in the last 30 days people drove after drinking too much alcohol.
- [Distracted Driving Crashes Worse Than Previously Suspected](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/distracted-driving-crashes-worse-than-previously-suspected/) - A new study found a 400 percent increase in Distracted Driving and stated that distraction was a factor in nearly 6 out of 10 moderate-to-severe teen crashes.
- [State v. Rhoden: Illegal 2-Step Confession Violates Miranda](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-rhoden-illegal-2-step-confession-violates-miranda/) - Illegal 2-Step Confession Technique Violates Miranda
- [Most Strict & Most Lenient States For DUIs](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/most-strict-most-lenient-states-for-duis/) - A new study was published this month by WalletHub ranking the fifty US states on strictness and leniency in dealing with DUIs and DWIs.
- ["Drive Sober Or Get Pulled Over" DUI Campaign](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/drive-sober-or-get-pulled-over-dui-campaign/) - Today, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched its annual "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" law enforcement crackdown on drunk driving.
- [State v. Afeworki: "Band It" Restraint Is Constitutional](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-afeworki-band-it-restraint-is-constitutional/) - A "Band It" prisoner restraint system worn by the Defendant during trial does not violate the right to a fair trial or the presumption of innocence.
- [State v. Gauthier: The "Washout" Rule for Felony Convictions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-gauthier-the-washout-rule-for-felony-convictions/) - Court held Defendant's prior Class C Felonies did not "Wash out" and were properly counted as criminal history because he spent 43 months in jail before trial.
- ["Studies" Show Pot-Related Accidents Doubled from 2013-2014](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wtsc-studies-show-pot-related-accidents-doubled-from-2013-2014/) - Newly released data shows that the number of marijuana-impaired drivers involved in accidents has nearly doubled at a 48% increase from 2013 to 2014.
- [State v. Brock: WA Supreme Court Reverses Search of Backpack Case](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-brock-wa-supreme-court-reverses-court-of-appeals-upholds-conviction/) - WA Supreme Court reasoned that the "Time for Arrest" doctrine didn't apply because the Defendant's backpack was a part of his person at the time of arrest.
- [State v. Martines: WA Supreme Court Finds Defendant Guilty of DUI on Blood Test Case](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-martines-wa-supreme-court-finds-defendant-guilty-of-dui-on-blood-test-case/) - WA Supreme Court decided the search warrant for blood authorized its drawing and testing of blood and was based on probable cause for DUI.
- [State v. O'Dell: Court May Consider Defendant's Youth at Sentencing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-odell-juvenile-brains-still-developing/) - In State v. O'Dell the Washington Supreme Court held that a defendant's youthfulness can support a lower prison sentence.
- [New DUI Court Helps Native Americans](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-dui-court-helps-native-americans/) - An Albuquerque, New Mexico court is taking bold and progressive steps in stopping Native Americans from committing DUI.
- [Have Plea Bargains Superseded Jury Trials?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/have-plea-bargains-superseded-jury-trials/) - Today's trends reveal the vast majority of criminal defendants are waiving their right to jury trials and entering plea bargains.
- [Stingray "Spy" Devices](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/stingray-spy-devices/) - Controversial surveillance device sweeps up basic cellphone data from a neighborhood and allows police to observe, record and pinpoint cell phone activity.
- [Drugged Driving: A Growing Trend](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/drugged-driving-a-growing-trend/) - Loosening marijuana laws and increased prescription drug abuse contribute to a growing number of traffic fatalities involving drivers found with drugs.
- [State v. Cayetano-James: Prohibiting Phone Call Testimony](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-cayetano-james-prohibiting-phone-call-testimony/) - WA Court of Appeals decided the trial court mistakenly denied the defendant’s motion to have a witness testify telephonically from Mexico.
- [States With Weird Liquor Laws](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/states-with-weird-liquor-laws/) - A news report from time.com discusses how many states have bizarre, outdated and just plain weird laws regarding the sale and consumption of alcohol.
- [State v. Bentura-Ozuna: Letter Found in Jail Cell Supports Conviction for Witness Intimidation](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-bentura-ozuna-letter-found-in-jail-cell-supports-conviction-for-witness-intimidation/) - WA Supreme Court held that defendant committed the crime of Intimidating a Witness when a letter found in his jail cell directed a threat to a former witness.
- [Study: Youth Tolerance Of Marijuana May Increase Chances of DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/study-youth-tolerance-of-marijuana-may-increase-chances-of-dui/) - Study found that 12-year-old children who had tolerant views of marijuana were more likely to drive under the influence when they were 16.
- [FBI DNA Database Error](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/fbi-dna-database-error/) - the WA State Crime Lab discovered errors in the FBI DNA database that was used by the lab, which names possible contributors to forensic DNA typing profiles.
- [Marijuana DUI Is Hard To Detect](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/marijuana-dui-is-hard-to-detect/) - Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste admitted that cracking down on marijuana users who drive while stoned is proving tricky for the state.
- [State v. Rooney: Unlawful Search of Bedroom, Yet Valid Frisk of Pants](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-rooney/) - Court of Appeals reverses Defendant's drug convictions due to unlawful search of bedroom, but upholds firearms conviction for a gun found in Defendant's pants.
- [State v. Linder: Unwitnessed Search is Unlawful](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-linder-unwitnessed-search-is-unlawful/) - Evidence obtained pursuant to a search warrant was suppressed because the officer's inventory of the search was not conducted with at least one witness.
- [State v. Mayer: Officer Gives Confusing Miranda Warnings](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-mayer-officer-gives-confusing-miranda-warnings/) - In State v. Mayer, the WA Supreme Court decided that a deputy sheriff inadequately advised the Defendant of his Miranda rights.
- [State v. Thierry: Prosecutor's Improper Closing Argument Reverses Conviction.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-thierry-prosecutors-improper-closing-argument-reverses-conviction/) - WA Court of Appeals held that a Prosecutor’s statements during the closing argument of a child sex abuse case was an improper appeal to passion and prejudice.
- [Police Roll Out Mobile DUI Processing Vehicle](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/police-roll-out-mobile-dui-processing-vehicle/) - Police unveiled a new Blood Alcohol Testing Mobile Unit allowing officers to process drunk drivers on the scene rather than bringing them to the police station.
- [State v. Besola: Overbroad Search Warrant](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-besola-overbroad-search-warrant/) - Washington Supreme Court held that a search warrant was overbroad. Because the warrant failed to meet the Constitution's "particularity" requirement.
- [State v. Mitchell: Bus Fare Officers](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-mitchell-bus-fare-officers/) - Bus fare enforcement officers may detain a passenger for a period of time necessary to identify them and may issue infractions when passengers fail to pay.
- [State v. Thompson: Disruptive Defendants In Trial](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-thompson-disruptive-defendants-in-trial/) - A defendant's right to be present during trial is not violated if they are taken away after being disruptive in court and refuse to behave afterward.
- [Washington Prosecutors Want Death Penalty Referendum](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-prosecutors-want-death-penalty-referendum/) - Prosecutors will ask lawmakers to send a death penalty referendum to voters next year on whether WA state should retain the death penalty.
- [Remorseful Defendants](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/remorseful-defendants/) - Professor Susan A. Bandes of DePaul University College of Law School argues the need for more studies on whether and how a defendant's remorse can be evaluated.
- [Early Release of Drug Felons](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/early-release-of-drug-felons/) - Federal prison system released 6,000 individuals convicted for drug offenses as part of a national effort to reduce the impact of overly harsh sentencing laws.
- [State v. Hampton: You Can't Replace Your Attorney at 11th Hour](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-hampton-you-cant-replace-your-attorney-at-11th-hour/) - A trial judge may deny a defendant’s request to delay trial to allow him to replace his public defender with a private attorney.
- [New Vehicle Technolgy Could End DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-vehicle-technolgy-could-end-dui/) - Recent new technology could effectively end drunk driving as we know it.
- [State v. Cherry: Consent & Self-Incrimination](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-cherry-consent-self-incrimination/) - An officer's questions to the passengers of a vehicle were simply routine booking questions and did not violate the defendant’s 5th Amendment rights.
- [Fewer Teens Driving After Drinking & Smoking Pot](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/fewer-teens-driving-after-drinking-smoking-pot/) - New research shows that fewer teens and young adults are driving under the influence of alcohol or a combination of alcohol and marijuana.
- [U.S. Supreme Court to Update DUI Procedures](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/u-s-supreme-court-to-update-dui-procedures/) - US Supreme Court to decide constitutionality of laws criminalizing the refusal to give a breath or blood sample when accused of DUI.
- [Cruel & Unusual Punishment?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/cruel-unusual-punishment/) - WA's drug possession statute is not cruel and unusual punishment even though the State need not prove the Defendant had knowledge or intent to possess.
- [Court Reverses Pot Conviction](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/court-reverses-pot-conviction/) - Court reversed conviction for Marijuana possession because RCW 10.01.040 does NOT permit prosecution of marijuana that was pending when I-502 became effective.
- [State v. Meza: Freezing Funds Without a Warrant Is Unlawful](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-meza-freezing-funds-without-a-warrant-is-unlawful/) - A court order to freeze the defendant's bank account was not a search warrant, and therefore did not satisfy the warrant requirement for the seizure of funds.
- [Ignition Interlock Devices Are Cash Cows for States](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/ignition-interlock-devices-are-cash-cows-for-states/) - The Ignition Interlock Industry is experiencing tremendous growth as more states continue to pass laws requiring Ignition Interlock Devices for DUI offenders.
- [Marijuana Legalization is Making Mexican Drug Cartels Poorer](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/marijuana-legalization-is-making-mexican-drug-cartels-poorer/) - Legalization of marijuana for recreational and medical purposes weakened drug cartels by cutting off a major source of their revenue.
- [State v. Rich: Evidence of DUI Also Shows Reckless Driving](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-rich-evidence-of-dui-also-shows-reckless-driving/) - Proof that a driver drove badly and drank alcohol allows a juror to conclude the driver created a substantial risk of death or injury to her passenger.
- [State v. Evans: A Knife is Not a Gun](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-evans-a-knife-is-not-a-gun/) - WA Supreme Court ruled that the United States Constitution’s protection of the "right to bear arms" does not extend to a paring knife.
- [Lower Legal Alcohol Limit?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/lower-legal-alcohol-limit/) - A federal agency is urging states to adopt stricter standards against drunk driving.
- [Wire Cutters Are NOT Theft Tools](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wire-cutters-are-not-theft-tools/) - Court decides theft tools are created – whether by the manufacturer or the defendant – with the specific purpose of disabling or evading security systems.
- [State v. Keodara: Overbroad Search Warrant for Cell Phone](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-keodara-overbroad-search-warrant/) - A search warrant unlawfully allowed police to search a cell phone for items that had no association with any criminal activity whatsoever.
- [Stoned Drivers Hit Test Course To Evaluate Marijuana DUI Limits](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/stoned-drivers-hit-test-course-to-evaluate-marijuana-dui-limits/) - An article and video from the Denver Huffington Post addressed this question in lieu of recent marijuana regulation: how high is too high to drive?
- [Wrongful Incarceration](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wrongful-incarceration/) - A lawsuit against police may proceed when the jail did not engage in readily available identity checks to ensure that they were not detaining the wrong person.
- [Record Number of False Convictions Overturned in 2015](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/record-number-of-false-convictions-overturned-in-2015/) - 2015 was a record-breaking year for exonerations in the United States.
- ["Good Time" Early Release](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/good-time-release/) - The Washington Department of Corrections "Good Time" early release program in a forward-thinking program recently under fire.
- [Harsher DUI Penalties Pass Washington House](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/harsher-dui-penalties-pass-washington-house/) - House Bill 2280, approved Monday, would make a driver’s fourth DUI conviction within 10 years a Class B felony, rather than a Class C felony.
- [State v. Kohonen: No Proof of Cyberstalking](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-kohonen-no-proof-of-cyberstalking/) - Court decides the State failed to prove that a defendant's tweets constituted “true threats” sufficient to support a conviction for Cyberstalking charges.
- [State v. Robison: Implied Consent & Pot DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-robison-implied-consent-pot-dui/) - BAC test requires suppression when the police officer giving the breath to a driver suspected of DUI fails to provide that driver with implied consent warnings.
- [Proposed Law Would Require Bartenders to Cut Drunk People Off](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/proposed-law-would-require-bartenders-to-cut-drunk-people-off/) - Proposed legislation in California would require bartenders to undergo training in how to handle alcohol and cut off intoxicated customers.
- [State v. Feely: Endangering Other Officers During Pursuit Brings Enhanced Penalties](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/3016-2/) - A defendant convicted of Attempting to Elude a Police Vehicle faces harsher penalties when an officer deploying spike strips is endangered during the incident.
- [Drowsy Driving](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/drowsy-driving/) - Sleep deprivation has severe effects on driving performance. Staying awake for 24 hours is equivalent to having a BAC of 0.08 percent, which is legally drunk.
- [Bellingham's New & Innovative Jail Alternatives Program](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellinghams-new-innovative-jail-alternatives-program/) - Recently, the Bellingham City Council approved a new and innovative program to expand alternatives to incarceration and help reduce overcrowding in County Jail.
- [Mugshot Shaming & Facebook](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/facebook-shaming-of-mugshots/) - Chesterfield County Sheriff's Office in Virginia has decided to post weekly mugshots of people arrested on DUI charges on their Facebook page.
- [Police Brutality Bill in WA Senate](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/police-brutality-bill-in-wa-senate/) - A bill introduced in the WA State Legislature would make it easier to bring criminal charges against police officers over the use of deadly force.
- [State v. Pearson: DUI Blood Draw Held Unlawful](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/3052-2/) - Court decides blood draw for THC was unlawful absent emergency circumstances and it's error to discuss THC limits in a DUI case arising before passage of I-502.
- [State v. Castillo-Lopez: Substituting Counsel & Continuances](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-castillo-lopez-substituting-counsel-continuances/) - Court of Appeals upheld the denial of a Defendant's motion to continue trial and substitute a retained attorney to replace the defendant’s public defender.
- [Some Bellingham Inmates Transported Out Of County](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/some-bellingham-inmates-transported-out-of-county/) - Bellingham City Council added another backup plan for Bellingham inmates who need to be moved from the overcrowded Whatcom County Jail.
- ["Car Key" Breathalyzer](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/car-key-breathalyzer/) - Auto maker Honda and electronics company Hitachi developed a compact and tamper-proof portable breathalyzer test to prevent DUI.
- [Second Amendment Protects Stun Guns](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/second-amendment-protects-stun-guns/) - United States Supreme Court struck down a Massachusetts statute prohibiting the possession of stun guns.
- [Police Dog "Bite & Hold"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/police-dog-bite-hold/) - A federal court held that the City of San Diego’s policy of training its police dogs to “bite and hold” individuals violates Constitutional rights.
- [Frisks & DV Investigations](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/domestic-violence-frisks/) - Court held that although the DV nature of a police investigation is relevant to whether a suspect is armed, it is, by itself, an insufficient reason to search.
- [Bellingham Police Department Body Cameras Now Mandatory](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellingham-police-department-body-cameras-now-mandatory/) - starting this July, Bellingham Police Department will require all uniformed patrol officers to wear and use body cameras.
- [Prisoners on Strike](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/prisoners-on-strike/) - Prisoners around the country have called for a series of strikes against forced labor and demanded reforms of parole systems and prison policies.
- [Attorney Alexander Ransom Selected Among Top 1% Percent](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/attorney-alexander-ransom-selected-among-top-1-percent/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom has been selected to the 2016 list as a member of the Nation’s Top One Percent by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.
- [The "Textalyzer" Battles Distracted Driving & Works Like A Breathalyzer](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-textalyzer-battles-distracted-driving-works-like-a-breathalyzer/) - Lawmakers from New York want give police officers a new device that is the digital equivalent of the Breathalyzer — a roadside test called the Textalyzer.
- ["Community Caretaking" Search Upheld as Lawful](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/3122-2/) - WA Supreme Court decided police officers may make a limited sweep of a vehicle under the "Community Caretaking" exception to the warrant requirement.
- [Wielding Inoperable Firearm During Crime is Still Unlawful](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/3130-2/) - Court held that although the State must prove that a defendant possessed a real firearm, the State is not required to prove that the firearm was operable.
- [Jailhouse Snitches](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/jailhouse-snitches/) - University of Washington Law School is trying to pass legislation which would require a pre-trial reliability hearing for jailhouse rats.
- [State v. Deleon: Court Strikes Evidence of "Gang Affiliation" Due To Defendant's Music Preferences](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-deleon-courts-strikes-evidence-of-gang-affiliation-due-to-defendants-music-preferences/) - A defendant’s musical preference does not establish gang membership and their admitted gang affiliation during jail booking may not be used at trial.
- [The Neurology of Risky Driving Behavior](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-neurology-of-risky-driving-behavior/) - A team of Canadian psychological scientists is looking at the personality, cognitive, and neurobiological factors that contribute to reckless driving behavior.
- [High Court Strikes Racism in Jury Selection](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/high-court-strikes-racism-in-jury-selection/) - U.S. Supreme Court reverses a black death row inmate's conviction by an all-white jury after new evidence shows the Prosecutor eliminated black jurors.
- [Prosecutors Must Reveal Toxicologist Identities in DUI Trials](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/prosecutors-must-reveal-toxicologist-identities-in-dui-trials/) - Court reversed a defendant's DUI conviction because the Prosecutor failed to give Defense Counsel the name of their Toxicologist expert witness before trial.
- [State v. Budd: WA Supreme Court Acknowledges Unlawful Search of Home](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-budd-wa-supreme-court-acknowledges-unlawful-search-of-home/) - WA Supreme Court decided law enforcement officers must properly give Ferrier warnings before entering a residence.
- [Youth as Mitigating Factor](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/3183-2/) - A juvenile tried as an adult is entitled to a sentencing where the judge inquires whether the defendant’s youth should mitigate his sentence.
- [AAA Questions Marijuana DUI Laws](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/aaa-questions-marijuana-dui-laws/) - Studies from AAA find that blood tests given to drivers suspected of marijuana DUI have no scientific basis.
- [Is Cash Bail Effective?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/is-cash-bail-effective/) - Three research studies released this month further confirm the ineffective, discriminatory, and unsafe influence of money bail in U.S. criminal justice systems.
- [Criminal Defense Attorney Alexander Ransom Joins Skagit Bar Association](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/criminal-defense-attorney-alexander-ransom-joins-skagit-bar-association/) - Criminal Defense attorney Alexander Ransom is proud to announce his membership into the Skagit County Bar Association.
- [When Sexting Becomes Criminal](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/when-sexting-becomes-criminal/) - Court of Appeals held that a juvenile’s "sexting" a picture of his erect penis to an adult female is punishable as a felony sex crime.
- [Unlawful Arrest for Failure to Pay Court Fines](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/unlawful-arrest-for-failure-to-pay-court-fines/) - Court of Appeals decided an arrest warrant may not issue for a defendant who fails to appear in court to explain why she had not paid her court fines.
- [Refusing Field Sobriety Test is Admissible as "Consciousness of Guilt"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/refusing-sobriety-test-is-admissible-as-consciousness-of-guilt/) - At trial, Prosecutor may admit evidence to the jury that a DUI defendant is declining voluntary Field Sobriety Tests as evidence of consciousness of guilt.
- [Threatening Note = Robbery](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/a-threatening-note-is-robbery/) - A defendant’s handwritten note demanding money from a bank teller contained threats sufficient enough to support a conviction for robbery.
- [Apology Letters & Free Speech](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/3244-2/) - A defendant's First Amendment free speech rights are not violated by a requirement that the defendant write an apology letter to the victim of the crime.
- [Utah v. Strieff: High Court Upholds Unlawful Search](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-strieff-court-upholds-unlawful-search/) - U.S. Supreme Court decides an illegal police stop did not violate the Fourth Amendment because the officer later discovered the defendant had a traffic warrant.
- [State v. Ashley: Prior Bad Acts of DV](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-ashley-dv-evidence-of-prior-bad-acts/) - WA Supreme Court decided a trial court properly admitted evidence of the defendant’s prior acts of domestic violence against the victim.
- [Backpack Searches When Jailed](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-dunham-inventory-searches/) - Court decides that a search of a suspect's locked backpack pocket was lawful when the defendant was booked into jail and knives were felt through the backpack.
- [Abandoned Cell Phone Searches](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/abandoned-cell-phone-searches/) - Court decides the protected information contained in a cell phone is open to searches when defendants leave their phones in stolen vehicles and run from police.
- [Jail Phone Conversations Are Admissible At Trial](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/jail-phone-conversations-are-admissible-at-trial/) - Phone conversations between inmates and persons outside the jail are not a private communication when the participants are advised that the calls are recorded.
- [Gift Cards Are "Access Devices"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/gift-cards-are-access-devices/) - Court holds a gift card is an “access device” under theft statute because it can be used to receive goods or services of a specified value.
- [New Washington Driver’s-License Exam Tackles Pot & Cellphone Risks](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-washington-drivers-license-exam-tackles-pot-cellphone-risks/) - Today's driver's license exams requires an understanding of the risks associated with smartphones and marijuana use.
- [9th Circuit Court of Appeals Bans Pot Prosecutions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/9th-circuit-court-of-appeals-bans-pot-prosecutions/) - 9th Circuit Court of Appeals banned the U.S. Department of Justice from prosecuting medical marijuana cases if no state laws were broken.
- [Kansas Cops Can’t Stop Colorado Drivers Just Because they Suspect Marijuana Possession](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/kansas-cops-cant-stop-colorado-drivers-just-because-they-suspect-marijuana-possession/) - Police Officers in Kansas cannot stop and search motorists for having nothing more than out-of-state license plates from states that have legalized marijuana.
- [A "Missing Witness" Argument Cuts Both Ways](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/missing-witness-arguments-cut-both-ways/) - Court rejects arguments that Defendant was wrongfully barred from arguing that Prosecutor failed to produce evidence of Defendant's police interview at trial.
- ["Joining" Multiple Offenses](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/joining-multiple-offenses/) - Multiple charges are admissible at trial if similarities between the crimes were adequate for the offenses to establish a defendant's modus operandi.
- [Assault is "Lesser Included" Charge for Indecent Liberties](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/assault-is-lesser-included-charge-for-indecent-liberties/) - Assault in the Fourth Degree is a Lesser Included offense for the crime of Indecent Liberties.
- [Trial Apparel](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/trial-apparel/) - A defendant's constitutional rights are not violated when judges refuse to allow defendants to wear jail clothing to trial.
- ["Voodoo Science" Debunked](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/voodoo-science-debunked/) - 9th Circuit Judge says the U.S. has relied on flawed forensic-evidence techniques for decades, falsely convicting many.
- ["Stop & Frisk" of Friends](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/3367-2/) - Police officers may seize the companions of a defendant if the seizure is based on safety concerns for the officers or other citizens.
- [Deadly Force Not Justified](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/deadly-force/) - Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals held the Government could not justify a police officer's use of deadly force while engaging an attempted investigatory stop.
- [Jails Aren't Liable to Control Released Inmates](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/jails-not-liable-to-control-released-inmates/) - A jail’s duty to supervise and control inmates does not include a general duty to somehow prevent inmates from committing crimes after they are released.
- [Panhandling is Free Speech](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/panhandling-is-free-speech/) - WA Supreme Court held that a City Ordinance that prohibited begging near highways and intersections violated the First Amendment.
- [Lawnmowers Aren't Vehicles](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/lawnmowers-arent-vehicles/) - Court decides a riding lawnmower is not a "motor vehicle" for the the crime of Theft of a Motor Vehicle.
- [Recorded Arguments & Privacy](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/recorded-arguments-privacy/) - An accidentally recorded argument between the defendant and his wife was improperly admitted at his trial for attempted murder and violated the WA Privacy Act.
- [Marijuana Arrests Increase](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/marijuana-arrests-increase/) - New study reveals marijuana arrests outnumber those for violent crime.
- [Corpus Delicti & Murder Confessions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/3413-2/) - Defendant's confession established corpus delicti to the crime of Murder in the First Degree because a causal connection between the death and a criminal act.
- [I-873: Police Accountability](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/i-873-police-accountability/) - Grass-roots movements are trying to put Initiative 873, which seeks to improve good policing policies, in front of Washington's legislature in January 2017.
- [Felony Disenfranchisement & Voting](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/felony-disenfranchisement-voting/) - A new study shows 6.1 million Americans cannot vote because of felony disenfranchisement or laws restricting voting rights for those convicted of felony crimes.
- [Premeditated Murder Unproved](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/premeditated-murder-unproved/) - Court of Appeals reversed a defendant's conviction for first degree murder due to insufficient evidence of premeditation.
- [Possessing Controlled Substances for Family Members.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/3434-2/) - WA's drug statute provides a valid defense that Defendants facing drug charges may hold and possess prescription narcotic pills for family members.
- ["Knock & Announce" Was Too Short](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/knock-announce-was-too-short/) - Police violated a defendant's rights when they forced entry into his home after waiting only 6-9 seconds of their "knock and announce" in the early morning.
- [Court Denies Prosecutor's "Missing Witness" Jury Instruction in DUI Case.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/3450-2/) - Court holds that Prosecutors are not entitled to a missing witness jury instruction if the real driver’s testimony would implicate him of a crime.
- [Cell Phone Spying Is Unlawful](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/cell-phone-spying-is-unlawful/) - Defendant committed Computer Trespass in the First Degree by installing “Mobile Spy” software on the victim’s cell phone and recording personal communications.
- [Trump On Crime](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/trump-on-crime/) - How will Trump's administration affect the war on drugs, marijuana legalization within the States, non-citizens facing criminal charges and the death penalty?
- [Criminalizing "Illegal Protests"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/criminalizing-illegal-protests/) - Whatcom County Senator wants to propose a controversial bill which criminalizes what he calls “illegal protests.”
- [Exonerations On the Rise](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/3496-2/) - In 2015, 68 out of 157 exonerations were cases in which the defendant pleaded guilty.
- [ACLU Proposes New Jury Selection Court Rule](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/aclu-proposes-new-jury-selection-court-rule/) - Proposed General Rule 36 is meant to protect Washington jury trials from intentional or unintentional, unconscious, or institutional bias in jury selection.
- [Author of Confidential Informants Book Exposes the Truth](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/author-of-confidential-informants-book-exposes-the-truth/) - A new book discusses how the use of confidential informants negatively impacts the criminal justice system.
- ["Common Authority" Vehicle Searches](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/common-authority-vehicle-searches/) - A vehicle owner’s consent to search the vehicle overrode the driver's express objections because the vehicle owner has common authority to grant the search.
- [State v. Murray: Improper Implied Consent Warnings Held Unimportant](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-murray-improper-implied-consent-warnings-held-unimportant/) - DUI breath test results were admitted even though the police officer who investigated the defendant did not properly inform the defendants of THC warnings.
- [State v. Ortuno-Perez: "Other Suspect" Evidence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/3533-2/) - A defendant charged with murder was wrongfully prohibited from introducing evidence that another person armed at the murder scene actually committed the murder.
- [Holiday Drinking In The U.S.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/holiday-drinking-in-the-u-s/) - Census data on total monthly alcohol sales in the United States carries a time-tested seasonal trend: the spikes in December of each year.
- [Protective Sweeps of Homes](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/3543-2/) - A "protective sweep" of the defendant’s home was improper because the defendant was arrested outside his home and the officers lacked facts of pending danger.
- [Pre-Arrest Silence & Business Records Exceptions to Hearsay Rule](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/pre-arrest-silence-business-records-exceptions-to-hearsay-rule/) - 5th Amendment doesn't protect pre-arrest silence as evidence of guilt, and (2) although photo lineup report was improperly admitted, it was harmless error.
- [Bounty Hunters & Bondsmen](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bounty-hunters-bondsmen/) - A bail bondsman may forcibly enter into the land or property of a third party if he has reasonably believes the fugitive is there.
- [What Happened After Voters Legalized Recreational Marijuana?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/what-happened-after-voters-legalized-recreational-marijuana/) - Studies show that the availability of recreational marijuana in Washington and elsewhere is having little to no effect on teens' propensity to smoke weed.
- [New Federal Data Shows Decrease in Drunk Driving Rates](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-federal-data-shows-decrease-in-drunk-driving-rates/) - new federal statistics show that the rate of drunken driving in the United States fell to a 13-year low in 2014, the latest year for which data is available.
- [Brady v. Maryland to the Rescue](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/brady-v-maryland-to-the-rescue/) - Under Brady v. Maryland, the 9th Circuit remanded the appellant's trial convictions because a witness received benefits that were undisclosed to the defendants.
- [Strict Liability Offenses](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/strict-liability-offenses/) - In order to convict for vehicular homicide or vehicular assault, the State need only prove that the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- [Promoting Prostitution](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/promoting-prostitution/) - WA Supreme Court held that a pimp can be convicted on multiple counts of promoting prostitution when multiple prostitutes are involved.
- [Overbroad Parolee Searches](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/overbroad-parolee-searches/) - Contraband found while searching defendant’s car after his arrest on a DOC violation is only admissible if there's a nexus between the violation and the search.
- [Misconduct at Closing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/misconduct-at-closing/) - Court held that Prosecutor committed misconduct by (1) failing to bring an expert to testify about the grooming process, and (2) arguing facts not in evidence.
- [Deported After Conviction](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/deported-after-conviction/) - Court upheld the defendant's 2002 conviction of Unlawful Imprisonment because it was unforeseeable that the defendant's plea would result in deportation.
- [Diminished Capacity Defense Denied](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/diminished-capacity-defense-denied/) - Defendant's Diminished Capacity defense was excluded even though witnesses could say that the defendant was “slow,” and participated in special education.
- [The Right to Hope for Jury Nullification](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-right-to-hope-for-jury-nullification/) - U.S. Supreme Court shall address whether a defendant's right to jury nullification could aid them in avoiding deportation arising from prior convictions.
- [Trump v. Marijuana Legalization](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/trump-v-marijuana-legalization/) - Washington State challenges the Trump administration's prosecution of recreational marijuana.
- [State Senate Passes Bill Making Fourth DUI a Felony.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-senate-passes-bill-making-fourth-dui-a-felony/) - WA Senate passed a bill that would make DUI a felony if the driver has three or more prior offenses on their criminal record within 10 years.
- [Lower .08 to .05?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/lower-08-to-05/) - Washington state lawmakers are considering lowering the legal limit for driving under intoxication (DUI) from .08 to .05.
- [Taping Cops is Free Speech](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/taping-cops-is-free-speech/) - The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals held that videotaping or filming police activities is protected by the First Amendment.
- [The Most Charged Crime](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-most-charged-crime/) - ACLU reports that Driving While License Suspended in the Third Degree costs taxpayers millions of dollars, yet does little to improve public safety.
- [DUI: Men vs. Women](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/dui-men-vs-women/) - Over the past couple decades, alcohol-impaired driving has steadily decreased, however, the reduction in DUI doesn’t apply to women.
- [The "Drug House" Statute](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-drug-house-statute/) - Court of Appeals reversed a lower court's dismissal of charges of Maintaining a Drug Dwelling because substantial evidence of drug use existed within the home.
- [State v. Froehrich: Unlawful Inventory Search](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-froehrich-unlawful-inventory-search/) - Court upholds the suppression of methamphetamine found in a vehicle because the inventory search of the vehicle was unlawful.
- [Another Study Finds Few Consequences For Prosecutor Misconduct](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/another-study-finds-few-consequences-for-prosecutor-misconduct/) - A study from the New England Center for Investigative Reporting discovered that systemic prosecutor misconduct in Massachusetts dated back to 1985.
- [No Motion to Suppress?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/no-motion-to-suppress/) - A defendant may bring a pre-plea ineffective assistance of counsel claim when defense counsel fails to argue a motion to suppress the fruits of a search.
- [Jail Mail](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/jail-mail/) - Prisoners have a general Sixth Amendment right to be present when legal mail related to a criminal matter is inspected.
- ["No-Impeachment Rule" vs. Race Bias](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/no-impeachment-rule-vs-race-bias/) - The "No-Impeachment Rule" must give way for trial judges to consider a juror's racial biases and any resulting 6th Amendment violation of a fair jury trial.
- [Unlawful Property Seizure](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/unlawful-property-seizure/) - A trial court cannot order defendants to forfeit their property as a condition of their sentencing.
- [Pretrial Custody Held Unlawful](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/pretrial-detention-held-unlawful/) - A person's pretrial detention for alleged crimes can violate the Fourth Amendment if probable cause was based on false evidence.
- [Independent Blood Tests](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/independent-blood-tests/) - Police officers seeking blood draws on DUI suspects need not advise the driver that the driver has the right to an independent blood alcohol test.
- [Race Bias Video for Jurors](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/race-bias-video-for-jurors/) - Washington's Federal District Court created and shows an "implicit bias" video for potential jurors.
- [Interpreting Gone Wrong](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/interpreting-gone-wrong/) - Failing to have a certified interpreter violates a defendant's Constitutional rights at trial because inadequate interpretation could impact the jury's verdict.
- [Incomplete & Misleading Search Warrant](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/4608-2/) - Ninth Circuit Held that an officer's search warrant seeking evidence of child pornography was misleading. and incomplete.
- [Prostitution Evidence Admitted During Defendant's Assault Trial](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/prostitution-evidence-admitted-during-defendants-assault-trial/) - Court of Appeals decided evidence that the defendant prostituted the victim was properly admitted in his prosecution for second degree assault by strangulation.
- [Distracted Driving Bill Passes House](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/distracted-driving-bill-passes-house/) - The Washington State House approved Senate Bill 5289, which would prohibit holding electronic devices - including phones and tablets - while driving,
- [Backpage.com Evidence Admitted at Trial as "Business Record."](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/4682-2/) - A Defendant convicted of Promoting Sexual Abuse of a Minor was not prejudiced when the trial court admitted evidence of his business records with Backpage.com.
- [Inmates Paid $1 Per Day](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/immigrants-paid-1-a-day-to-work-in-tacoma-jail/) - Lawsuit claims the private jail company running an immigration detention center in Colorado is violating federal anti-slavery laws.
- [No-Contact Order Held Invalid](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/no-contact-order-held-invalid/) - WA Court of Appeals decided a lower court improperly imposed a 5-year no contact order between the defendant and his son in a witness tampering prosecution.
- [Elder Abuse Bill Goes to Vote](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/elder-abuse-bill-goes-to-vote/) - Washington State may pass new legislation protecting elderly, vulnerable adults against financial exploitation and neglect in Washington state.
- [Students, Not Suspects](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/5101-2/) - ACLU report says that police officers patrolling school hallways brings significant costs to the learning environment and finances of our schools.
- ["Incentivized" Informants](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/incentivized-informants/) - Senate Bill 5038 rightfully confronts and addresses the issue of false testimony by “incentivized” informants in criminal cases.
- [Proposed Law Evicts Suspected Meth Users From Hotels](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/proposed-law-evicts-suspected-meth-users-from-hotels/) - A new state law will allow local governments to evict residents from certain buildings contaminated by methamphetamine, even without evidence of manufacturing.
- [Sessions Seeks Harsher Prosecutions & Stricter Sentences](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/sessions-seeks-harsher-prosecutions-stricter-sentences/) - Attorney General Jeff Sessions has a new directive for federal prosecutors across the country: charge suspects with the most serious offense you can prove.
- [Life Sentences Increase](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/5439-2/) - One out of every nine prisoners in the United States is currently serving a life sentence—a record high—even as the overall prison population has fallen.
- [Immigration Arrests Up 38 Percent Under Trump](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/immigration-arrests-up-38-percent-under-trump/) - Under the Trump administration, arrests of criminal aliens by ICE Agents have increased by 38 percent.
- [State v. Armstrong: Prosecutor Not Obligated to Bring Video Evidence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-v-armstrong-surveillance-video-evidence/) - Prosecutor's failure to obtain a copy of the AM/PM store’s surveillance video prior to its destruction did not violate the defendant’s due process rights.
- [Opening the Door](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/opening-the-door/) - Defense Counsel "opened the door" to suppressed evidence during opening statement, and the proper remedy was to admit evidence previously ruled inadmissible.
- [Seattle Allows Filming Cops](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/5701-2/) - Seattle's City Council voted to codify the rights of the public to observe, record and criticize police activity without fear of retaliation.
- [the "Do's & Dont's" of Washington's Distracted Driving Law](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-dos-donts-of-washingtons-distracted-driving-law/) - Details of Washington's Driving Under the Influence of Electronics (DUIE) Act which shall take effect in July are discussed.
- ["Rough Estimates" Can't Support a Conviction for Property Crimes.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/rough-estimates-of-property-cant-support-a-conviction-for-property-crimes/) - A victim’s “rough estimate” which valued his stolen property at “roughly $800” will not support a conviction for possession of property in the second degree.
- [SCOTUS Eliminates the "Provocation Rule"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/scotus-eliminates-the-provocation-rule/) - U.S. Supreme Court held that the Provocation Rule disallowing excessive force has no basis in the Fourth Amendment when Plaintiffs were shot by police.
- [Pretrial Publicity & Change of Venue](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/pretrial-publicity-change-of-venue/) - Court of Appeals held that jury selection process used in a murder case protected the defendant’s constitutional rights to an impartial venue.
- [Shackled in Court](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/shackled-in-court/) - Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals held that a lower court’s policy of routinely shackling all defendants in the courtroom was unconstitutional.
- [Ninth Circuit Strikes Nevada Statutory Scheme Allowing Pretextual Stops](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/ninth-circuit-strikes-nevada-statutory-scheme-allowing-pretextual-stops/) - Nevada statutes allowing law enforcement officers to stop and search commercial vehicles for no reason violated the Fourth Amendment as a pretextual stop.
- [Drug-Sniffing Dogs](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/drug-sniffing-dogs/) - An officer violated the 4th Amendment when he prolonged a traffic stop and requested a drug-sniffing dog because he thought there were drugs in the car.
- [Downtown Bellingham's Loitering Problem: What's the Answer?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/downtown-bellinghams-loitering-problem-whats-the-answer/) - Business owners struggle with people sleeping in doorways, lighting fires in alcoves, and cleaning up after those who leave trash, feces and drug paraphernalia.
- [Fourth of July is One of the Deadliest Days For Drunk Driving](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/4th-of-july-is-one-of-the-deadliest-days-for-drunk-driving/) - The Fourth of July is among the deadliest days for drunk driving every year. Hire a competent DUI attorney as soon as possible if you're charged with DUI.
- [Sex Offenders & Cyberspace](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/sex-offenders-social-media/) - The U.S. Supreme Court outlawed a North Carolina statute making it a felony for a registered sex offender to access a commercial social networking Web site.
- [Guilty Pleas & Deportation](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/guilty-pleas-deportation/) - U.S. Supreme Court held a defendant was prejudiced by his attorney's bad advice to accept a guilty plea when pleading guilty ultimately led to his deportation.
- [Juror Misconduct](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/juror-misconduct/) - Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals overturned a murder conviction because a juror communicated with a "judge friend" about the case during deliberations.
- [Join Offenses = Bad Results](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/6722-2/) - Defense Counsel gave ineffective assistance for failing to object to numerous criminal charges being "joined" to a criminal charge of leading organized crime.
- [DV Protection Orders](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/dv-protection-orders/) - WA Supreme Court held that a person does not have to be a victim of domestic violence (DV) in order to be included in a DV protection order.
- [Border Patrol Backs Trump](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/border-patrol-president-endorses-trump-policies/) - President Trump received a glowing performance review Monday from the head of the National Border Patrol Council.
- [Invalid Search Warrant](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/invalid-search-warrant/) - Court suppressed blood test evidence because the search warrant application lacked facts showing the suspect was driving the car.
- [Race-Based Jury Selection](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/6886-2/) - The Prosecutor's peremptory strike of a minority juror was a prima facie showing of racial discrimination requiring a full Batson analysis by the trial court.
- [Public Records & Inmates](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/public-records-inmates/) - State law prevents jail inmates from making prolific public records requests for the purpose of suing the agency and profiting financially.
- [Crime & Safety in America](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/crime-safety-in-america/) -  U.S. violent crime rates are lower than they have been for four decades, and prisons’ impact as a crime deterrent “is minimal at best.”
- [Affidavits of Prejudice](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/affidavits-of-prejudice/) - Granting a continuance is a discretionary ruling which effectively negates any affidavits of prejudice which the parties may file against that judge afterward.
- ["Furtive Movements"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/furtive-movements/) - Walking quickly while looking up and down the street at 2:40 a.m. is an innocuous act, which cannot justify an intrusion into a person’s private affairs.
- [Marijuana and Violent Crime](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/marijuana-and-violent-crime/) - New statistics reveal what actually happened to violent crime in Washington State after marijuana was legalized.
- [Reducing Recidivism](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/7270-2/) - In "The Nearly Perfect Recidivism Machine," Texas criminologist William R. Kelley offers solutions on fixing the flaws of the American criminal justice system.
- [Immigrants Make Up 22% of Federal Prison Population](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/immigrants-make-up-22-of-federal-prison-population/) - A stunning 22% of the federal prison population is immigrants who are in the country illegally or who the government is trying to deport.
- [No-Contact Order Lengths](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/no-contact-order-lengths/) - WA Court of Appeals held a lower court mistakenly refused to lift a post-conviction No-Contact Order after the defendant fulfilled her sentence.
- [Random UA's & Privacy](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/random-uas-privacy/) - Random UA's do not violate Constitutional rights if their purpose is to monitor probation conditions requiring defendants to not use drugs and alcohol.
- [Alcohol Abuse On The Rise](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/alcohol-abuse-on-the-rise/) - Alcohol abuse has shot up since 2001, and the number of adults who binge weekly may top the population of Texas.
- [The Rise of Bitcoin](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-rise-of-bitcoin/) - The value of the shadowy digital currency known as Bitcoin jumped to record highs this month, shocking America’s defense and intelligence agencies.
- [Jail Calls Make Revenue](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/prisoners-generate-revenue/) - Private companies have much to gain from installing and maintaining jail technology connecting inmates with visitors. 
- [Sessions on WA Marijuana](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/sessions-on-wa-marijuana/) - Washington state officials disagree with how U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has characterized Washington state’s legal marijuana market. 
- [Racial Bias in Media Coverage of the Opioid Crisis vs. Crack Epidemics](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/racial-bias-in-media-coverage-of-the-opioid-crisis-vs-crack-epidemics/) - Article discusses the clear double standard in the visual framing of the opioid crisis in comparison to the crack cocaine crisis of the 1980's.
- [Extortion & Promises](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/extortion-promises/) - Extortion was proven when the defendant tried to get a promise from the victim that he would not pursue criminal charges for damaged property.
- [Increased Rape on Campus](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/increased-rape-on-campus/) - Reports of sexual assault on college campuses have surged dramatically in the past 15 years, according to a new federal study.
- [Skagit County Jail: Who Will Provide Inmate Medical Care?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/skagit-county-jail-who-will-provide-inmate-medical-care/) - With Skagit County set to move jail inmates into the new Community Justice Center, questions remain about who will provide medical services.
- [Is Spanking A Child Legal?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/is-spanking-a-child-legal/) - As a parent, you expect decisions about your own child’s well-being to be up to you. But can the law forbid you from spanking your child?
- [Should Police Always Be Allowed to Shoot?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/should-police-always-be-allowed-to-shoot/) - Great article from Lawyer Monthly on the issue of whether police should be allowed to use deadly and lethal force under various circumstances.
- [Top Cop Says Police Militarization Endangers Public Safety.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/top-cop-says-police-militarization-endangers-public-safety/) - Trump's decision to scrap Obama's Executive Order 13688 means police departments will once again have unfettered access to advanced military weapons.
- [Does Sex Offense Registration Violate the Constitution?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/does-sex-offense-registration-violate-the-constitution/) - A federal judge rules that Colorado’s online database violates the Eighth Amendment.
- [Self-Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/self-defense/) - Defendant’s 6th Amendment rights were violated when the trial court excluded testimony regarding why the defendant, who claimed self-defense, feared the victim.
- [Hate Crimes Rising?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/hate-crimes-rising/) - The Seattle Police Department Office of Public Affairs just released its semiannual report detailing bias crimes and incidents for the first half of 2017.
- [City of Everett Sues OxyContin Manufacturer](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/city-of-everett-sues-oxycontin-manufacturer/) - City of Everett to defend the merits of a federal lawsuit filed earlier this year against the makers of the pain medication OxyContin.
- [Dealing in Depictions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/8839-2/) - the "Dealing in Depictions . . ." statute allows the State to prosecute a minor for taking and distributing a sexually explicit photo of himself.
- [Visions of Freedom](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/visions-of-freedom/) - “Photo Requests from Solitary” offers inmates held in solitary confinement a chance to get their artistic requests fulfilled by professional artists.
- [Sue the Drug Companies](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/sue-the-drug-companies/) - Washington state Attorney General and City of Seattle sue OxyContin maker over opioid deaths, accusing it of fueling the state’s ongoing opioid epidemic.
- [‘Sanctuary’ Cities Targeted by ICE in Immigration Raids](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/sanctuary-cities-targeted-by-ice-in-immigration-raids/) - An ICE operation to arrest undocumented immigrants netted nearly 500 people in "Sanctuary Cities."
- [The Eyes Never Lie](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-eyes-never-lie/) - Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology is being developed to track deception by measuring dilations in the pupils of our eyes.
- [Female Attorneys Interrupted More Than Males](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/female-attorneys-interrupted-more-than-males/) - Studies show female attorneys arguing before the United States Supreme Court are interrupted earlier and more often compared to male lawyers.
- [Inmate Lawsuits](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/inmate-lawsuits/) - The filing of a criminal complaint against prison officials by a prisoner are protected by the First Amendment, provided they are not baseless claims.
- [Yoga Behind Bars](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/yoga-behind-bars/) - Yoga Behind Bars, a Seattle based non-profit organization, visits numerous jails and prisons throughout Washington State.
- [Don't Search My Tent!](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/dont-search-my-tent/) - A person has a constitutional privacy interest in a tent that is erected on public property.
- [Evidence of Self-Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/evidence-of-self-defense/) - WA Court of Appeals held that the trial court violated the defendant's Sixth Amendment right to present a defense by excluding evidence of self-defense.
- [MS-13 Targeted By the Feds](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/ms-13-targeted-by-the-feds/) - Attorney General Jeff Sessions has designated the MS-13 street gang as a priority for the Justice Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces.
- [Who Is The Toxicologist?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/who-is-the-toxicologist/) - WA Supreme Court held that the trial court did not abuse its discretion in denying the defendant’s motion to suppress the toxicologist’s testimony.
- [Excessive Tasing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/excessive-tasing/) - Continuous, repeated, and simultaneous tasings can only be justified by an immediate or significant risk of serious injury or death to officers or the public.
- [Defense of Property](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/defense-of-property/) - In State v. Yelovich, the WA Court of Appeals limited the scope of how, when and where an owner of property can use force to defend their property.
- [Poll: 6 In 10 Black Americans Say Police Unfairly Stopped Them Or A Relative](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/poll-6-in-10-black-americans-say-police-unfairly-stopped-them-or-a-relative/) - A new poll finds that 60 percent of black Americans say they or a family member have been stopped or treated unfairly by police because they are black.
- [Character Evidence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/character-evidence/) - A trial judge mistakenly admitted the defendant's dissimilar and unfairly prejudicial prior act of sexual misconduct as a purported common scheme or plan.
- [Corpus Delicti & Drugs](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/corpus-delicti-drugs/) - Despite corpus delicti, the discovery of meth and $2,150 in cash during a search of the defendant’s home was sufficient corroborating evidence of the crime.
- [Black Men Sentenced Longer](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/black-men-sentenced-longer/) - African-American men serve longer sentences than white men for the same crime, a new study by the U.S Sentencing Commission shows.
- [Vehicle Prowl Prior Convictions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/vehicle-prowl-priors/) - Multiple convictions for misdemeanor vehicle prowl count as one prior for felony vehicle prowling in the second degree.
- [The Feds on Crime Under Jeff Sessions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-feds-on-crime-under-jeff-sessions/) - Attorney General Sessions seeks dramatic and controversial changes in policy since taking the top law enforcement job in the United States nine months ago.
- ["Revenge Porn" Outlawed by the Feds?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/revenge-porn-outlawed-by-the-feds/) - Congressional lawmakers are pushing to make “revenge porn” or “sextortion” a federal crime.
- [A Vehicle is a "Premises"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/a-vehicle-is-a-premises/) - WA Supreme Court held that a vehicle is a “premises” for the purpose of the second degree criminal trespass statute.
- [Vacating Convictions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/vacating-convictions/) - When an offender has been convicted of an offense that is a crime against a person like third degree rape, the record of that conviction may not be vacated.
- [Wine Glass Sizes Are Increasing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wine-glass-sizes-are-increasing/) - The size of wine glasses has ballooned nearly seven-fold over the past 300 years, rising most sharply in the last two decades with a surge in wine consumption.
- [Domestic Violence & Cell Phone Privacy](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/domestic-violence-cell-phone-privacy/) - The accidental recording of a domestic violence confrontation on a cell phone is admissible at trial and does not violate the Washington Privacy Act.
- [I-940 & Police Misconduct](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/i-940-police-misconduct/) - Initiative 940 gives an opportunity to prosecute police for deadly shootings in Washington state.
- [Prosecutors Use Body Camera Evidence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/prosecutors-use-body-camera-evidence/) - Body cameras are becoming key tools for prosecutors.
- [Glaring During Trial](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/glaring-during-trial/) - A trial court denied the defendant’s motion for a mistrial based upon the victim’s behavior – glaring at the defendant – when called to the stand.
- [Bla Bla Bla](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bla-bla-bla/) - WA Court of Appeals held that a prosecutor improperly disrespects defense counsel by using “bla, bla, bla” to describe defense counsel’s closing argument.
- [WA Death Penalty To End?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-death-penalty-to-end/) - This year, WA lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are optimistic 2018 may bring the end of Washington’s death penalty.
- [Driverless Cars for Crime?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/driverless-cars-for-crime/) - Driverless cars could potentially be used by criminals, hackers and terrorists who want to employ them for mayhem and criminal purposes.
- [Black & Undocumented](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/black-undocumented/) - Although only 7 percent of non-citizens in the U.S. are black, they make up 20 percent of those facing deportation on criminal grounds.
- [ER 404(B) and "Lustful Disposition"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/er-404b-and-lustful-disposition/) - WA Court of Appeals held that a trial court did not commit error in admitting evidence that, after the charged conduct, the victim observed the defendant masturbating while holding the victim’s bra.
- [DOL Shared Info With ICE](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/dol-shared-info-with-ice/) - The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) will no longer release personal information to federal immigration authorities without a court order unless required by law, the agency announced Monday.
- ["Original Gangster" Comment Improper, But Not Prejudicial](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/original-gangster-comment-improper-but-not-prejudicial/) - WA Supreme Court held that it was improper for the prosecutor to refer to the defendant as an “OG” (original gangster) in closing argument, where no one testified that simply being a longtime gang member was sufficient for "OG" status.
- [Silver Platter Doctrine](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/silver-platter-doctrine/) - WA Court of Appeals held that the defendant's computer hard drive that Texas police seized in Texas pursuant to a search warrant was lawfully searched by the Washington State Patrol without a Washington search warrant under the silver platter doctrine.
- [Witness Tampering](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/witness-tampering/) - Court decides defendant tried to influence a witness to testify falsely where he asked the witness to give a different story than the one she gave to police.
- [DWLS-III Decriminalized?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/13367-2/) - Lawmakers trying to change "Driving While License Suspended" laws that many say disproportionately burden the poor and communities of color.
- [Driving With Wheels Off the Roadway](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/driving-with-wheels-off-the-roadway/) - The neutral area separating a highway on-ramp from an adjacent lane of travel does not meet the definition of “roadway.”
- [Death Penalty Repealed?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/death-penalty-repealed/) - Washington Senate passed a bill to abolish the Death Penalty.
- [Burglary of Inmate's Cell?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/burglary-of-inmates-cell/) - A jail cell is a separate building for purposes of supporting a burglary charge/conviction.
- [Emergency Blood Draws](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/emergency-blood-draws/) - A warrantless blood draw of a DUI suspect is proper under exigent circumstances.
- [Forced & Warrantless Entry](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/forced-warrantless-entry/) - Police officers responding to a “physical domestic” call violated the Fourth Amendment by entering the locked house without a warrant.
- [Drive-By Shooting Conviction Reversed](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/drive-by-shooting-conviction-reversed/) - Drive-By Shooting conviction was reversed because there was no evidence that a vehicle was involved in the shooting.
- [Common Authority to Search](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/14213-2/) - Police may contact an absent vehicle owner and then get that owner's consent to search their vehicle if another person is driving it.
- [Unlawful Imprisonment Evidence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/unlawful-imprisonment-evidence/) - Defendant's conviction for Unlawful Imprisonment upheld because the victim was imprisoned in his home for two days against his will by the Defendant.
- [Excessive Force?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/excessive-force/) - A police officer uses excessive force when he points a gun at an unarmed suspect’s head and threatened to kill the suspect.
- [Probable Cause & Parties](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/probable-cause-parties/) - Probable cause existed to arrest party-goers at a home when the totality of the circumstances make it clearly obvious that criminal activity was happening.
- [Increase of Uninsured Drivers in WA State](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/increase-of-uninsured-drivers-in-wa-state/) - The number of uninsured motorists in Washington state increased to 17.4 percent between 2012 and 2015.
- [Drug Offender Recidivism](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/drug-offender-recidivism/) - Study reveals that imprisoning drug offenders for longer prison sentences does not reduce drug problems in any given state.
- [Probation Searches](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/probation-searches/) - WA Constitution requires a nexus between the property searched and the suspected probation violation.
- [The Particularity Requirement for Search Warrants](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-particularity-requirement-for-search-warrants/) - A search warrant authorizing police to search and seize a large amount of cell phone data violated the particularity requirement of the Fourth Amendment.
- [Marijuana vs. Alcohol](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/marijuana-vs-alcohol/) - States allowing adults to legally consume marijuana saw 13% less binge drinking episodes than non-cannabis states, and 9% fewer than the national average.
- [Whatcom County Sues Opioid Drug Manufacturer](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/whatcom-county-sues-opioid-drug-manufacturer/) - County Council voted to join growing litigation against makers and wholesalers of prescription opioids, saying they have contributed to a public health crisis.
- [Marijuana Use & Your Job](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/marijuana-use-your-job/) - A survey released by the Centers for Disease and Control Prevention may help inform employers about marijuana use in their industry.
- [Supreme Court Makes it Harder to Deport Legal Immigrants Who Commit Crimes.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/supreme-court-makes-it-harder-to-deport-legal-immigrants-who-commit-crimes/) - U.S. Supreme Court held that the definition of "crime of violence" was unconstitutionally void for vagueness under the Fifth Amendment’s Due Process Clause.
- [5 Types of Alcoholics](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/5-types-of-alcoholics/) - Study reveals there were five distinct patterns of alcohol dependence.
- [Evidence of Forgery](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/evidence-of-forgery/) - WA Court of Appeals held that sufficient evidence existed to convict the defendant, an escrow agent, of forgery.
- [DV & Cohabitating Parties](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/dv-cohabitating-parties/) - Court rules that a man who is cohabitating with a woman and her child does not necessarily have a “family or household” relationship to the child.
- [Jail Mail](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/jail-mail-2/) - An inmate's 6th Amendment rights were violated and has case was prejudiced when jail guards opened and read his confidential letters to his defense attorney.
- [Warrantless Search & "Community Caretaking"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/warrantless-search-community-caretaking/) - WA Court of Appeals held that the officers’ warrantless entry into a duplex was lawful as under "exigent circumstances" exception to warrant requirement
- [DUI For Left-Lane Travel](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/dui-for-left-lane-travel/) - WA Court of Appeals upheld the DUI conviction of a motorist who was pulled over for the traffic infraction of travelling in the far-left lane of the freeway.
- [Felony Harassment (DV)](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/felony-harassment-dv/) - Judge's refusal to admit evidence of the defendant’s and victim’s engagement and vacation after the DV offense did not violate the defendant’s rights.
- [Studies Show Immigration Does Not Increase Violent Crimes](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/studies-show-immigration-does-not-increase-violent-crimes/) - Studies show that illegal immigration does not increase the prevalence of violent crime or drug and alcohol problems.
- [Gun Safes Are Searchable](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/gun-safes-are-searchable/) - WA Court of Appeals held that a police search warrant for firearms located in a residence allows officers to search a locked gun safe.
- [How to Delete Your DNA Data From Genetics Companies](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/how-to-delete-your-dna-data-from-genetics-companies/) - Useful tips on how to delete your DNA data from genetics companies.
- [Expert Witnesses & Meth](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/expert-witnesses-meth/) - A defense expert witness's proposed testimony regarding the effects of methamphetamine was properly suppressed at trial.
- [Definition of "Porn" Vague](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/definition-of-porn-vague/) - A defendant's community custody condition prohibiting possession of pornographic materials was unconstitutionally vague.
- [Inventory Searches of Cars](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/inventory-searches-of-cars/) - Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals held that evidence of criminal drug activity removed from the defendant’s car constituted an unlawful search.
- [Search of Rental Cars](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/search-of-rental-cars/) - The driver of a rental car can challenge a warrantless search of the vehicle even if the driver is not listed as an authorized driver on the rental agreement.
- [ACLU Sues Whatcom County Jail](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/aclu-sues-whatcom-county-jail/) - ACLU filed a lawsuit Wednesday against the Whatcom County Jail and the Sheriff’s Office for denying inmates with opioid use disorder access to medication.
- [Murder Rates Decline](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/murder-rates-decline/) - Crime and murder rates generally declined in the U.S.’s 30 largest cities in 2017, following two years of sharp increases in the murder rate nationwide.
- [Vehicular Homicide](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/vehicular-homicide/) - Court upholds a defendant's conviction for vehicular homicide for the death of a Good Samaritan.
- [Outrageous Police Misconduct](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/outrageous-police-misconduct/) - In State v. Solomon, the WA Court of Appeals decided the trial court properly dismissed a charge of attempted rape of a child for outrageous police misconduct.
- [Search Within Curtilage](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/search-within-curtilage/) - Officers may not enter the curtilage of a house without a search warrant in order to remove the tarp from a motorcycle in order to confirm that it was stolen.
- [Cell Site Location Information](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/cell-site-location-information/) - Supreme Court held that the government needs a search warrant to collect troves of cell site location data about the customers of cellphone companies.
- [Driving While Black: Some Statistics](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/driving-while-black-some-statistics/) - Recent studies and statistics from American cities show disturbing upward trends in racial profiling.
- [Churches Divest from Police to Protect People of Color.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/churches-divest-from-police-to-protect-people-of-color/) - A progressive California church, and dozens of its members have vowed to never call the police again except for a shooting or other life-threatening violence.
- [Celebrate the Fourth of July Responsibly](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/celebrate-the-fourth-of-july-responsibly/) - Celebrate the Fourth of July responsibly. Remember its history and purpose. And if you find yourself facing criminal charges, don't hesitate to call.
- [Speeding / Reckless Driving](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/speeding-reckless-driving/) - Traffic reports and aircraft surveillance reveals an increase of speeding and Reckless Driving in Washington and Whatcom County. 
- [Bellingham's Most Dangerous Intersections](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellinghams-most-dangerous-intersections/) - Statistics provided by the Bellingham Police Department Traffic Division reveal Bellingham's most dangerous intersections.
- [Unlawful Opinion Testimony of Police Officer](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/unlawful-opinion-testimony-of-police-officer/) - A police officer’s use of the word “reckless” or “eluding” while testifying in a trial involving these selfsame charges constitutes improper opinion testimony.
- [Accomplices & Drive-By Shooting](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/accomplices-drive-by-shooting/) - Drive-By Shooting charges were dismissed against an accused who merely retrieved a gun from his car and crouched behind another car at the time he returns fire.
- [Praying While Arrested](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/praying-while-arrested/) - Police may lawfully prevent a person from praying at a particular time and place, such as when a suspect who is under arrest seeks to delay the trip to jail.
- [Pretext Traffic Stop](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/pretext-traffic-stop/) - A traffic stop for Failure to Transfer Title was not pretextual because the stop was initiated based upon the officer running the defendant's license plates.
- [Facebook Photos Admissible](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/facebook-photos-admissible/) - Photographs from a Defendant's Facebook account were admitted at trial as self-authenticating business records.
- [Inadmissible & Irrelevant Evidence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/inadmissible-irrelevant-evidence/) - Trial court correctly excluded irrelevant evidence that the woman the defendant killed had earlier dated a man accused of murder and she hid the murder weapon.
- ["Can I Have My Case File?"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/can-i-have-my-case-file/) - A defendant's request for his client file and discovery materials should be granted, without any showing of need. However, disclosure is subject to redactions.
- [California Eliminates Cash Bail](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/california-eliminates-cash-bail/) - California ends cash bail system in a sweeping reform for the state. A defendant's release will now hinge on an assessment of their risk to public safety.
- [Backpage.com & Privacy](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/backpage-com-privacy/) - Calls and text messages to a phone number listed in a Backpage.com advertisement are not private communications protected by the Washington Privacy Act.
- [Federal Legislation to End Cash Bail](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/federal-legislation-to-end-cash-bail/) - Senator Bernie Sanders introduced legislation to end money bail on the federal level and create incentives for states to follow suit.
- [Racial Disparities & Homicide](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/racial-disparities-homicide/) - Racial disparities in homicide investigations contribute to disparities in capital punishment.
- [Jury Bias](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/jury-bias/) - A trial court mistakenly allowed a juror to decide an Identity Theft case when the juror was a victim of crime and admitted she could not put her biases aside.
- [Policing for Profit](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/policing-for-profit/) - A federal judge declared "Policing for Profit" - better known as "Civil Asset Forfeiture" - unconstitutional.
- [Violation of No-Contact Order & Defense of Property](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/violation-of-no-contact-order-defense-of-property/) - "Defense of property" jury instruction is not available when there is a valid court order prohibiting the defendant from contacting the protected party.
- [Sexual Assault Kits Remain Untested](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/sexual-assault-kits-remain-untested/) - Attorney General’s Office discovers 6,460 rape kits have not yet been submitted for lab testing by local law enforcement agencies.
- [Racial Profiling of Latinos in LA County](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/racial-profiling-of-latinos-in-la-county/) - More than two-thirds of drivers pulled over by the Domestic Highway Enforcement Team were Latino, according to a Times analysis of Sheriff’s Department data.
- [WA State Abolishes Death Penalty](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-state-abolishes-death-penalty/) - Washington’s Supreme Court struck down the state’s death penalty as arbitrary and racially biased, making it the 20th state to do away with capital punishment.
- [Juvenile Life Sentences Ruled Unconstitutional](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/juvenile-life-sentences-ruled-unconstitutional/) - Washington State’s Supreme Court ruled that sentencing youth offenders to life in prison without parole is unconstitutional.
- [Online Research By Juror](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/online-research-by-juror/) - WA Court of Appeals upheld a defendant's criminal convictions even though one of the jurors performed online research against the court's instructions.
- [Rape Kit Backlog Resolved](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/rape-kit-backlog-resolved/) - Survivors of sexual assaults in Washington state can now track the progress of their kits being analyzed through a new online portal.
- ["Ruse" Searches Held Unconstitutional.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/ruse-searches-held-unconstitutional/) - An officer’s entry into a home via a "ruse" such as by asking the homeowner for assistance in a fake criminal investigation, violates the Fourth Amendment.
- [I-940 Passed By Voters](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/i-940-passed-by-voters/) - Initiative 940, a bill that lowers the standard for prosecuting cops using deadly force and gives them de-escalation training, has passed with strong support.
- [Autopsy Photos Admitted](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/autopsy-photos-admitted/) - Appeals court decides 15 of 100 autopsy photographs were properly admitted over the objection of the defendant charged and convicted of aggravated murder.
- [Courtroom Disruptions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/courtroom-disruptions/) - A defendant's Sixth Amendment right to question witnesses during trial was violated when the defendant was removed for being disruptive.
- [Midterm Elections Bring Criminal Justice Reforms](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/midterm-elections-bring-criminal-justice-reforms/) - Voters across the nation considered a number of criminal justice reform measures ranging from voting rights to sentencing reform.
- [Increased DUI Patrols for Apple Cup & Thanksgiving](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/increased-dui-patrols-for-apple-cup-thanksgiving/) - DUI emphasis patrols will run through Nov. 25, focusing on WSU students who are traveling for the Thanksgiving break and the Apple Cup in Pullman Nov. 24.
- [WA Supreme Court Changes Race Bias Jury Selection Test](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-supreme-court-changes-race-bias-jury-selection-test/) - WA Supreme Court modifies the the third step of a Batson challenge to a race-based peremptory strike of a juror in Washington.
- [Right to Confront Victim Witnesses At Trial](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/right-to-confront-victim-witnesses-at-trial/) - A victim's testimony from her hospital bed in Minnesota via two-way video violated the defendant’s Sixth Amendment right to confrontation.
- [Stricter Immigration Enforcement Will Not Reduce Crime](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/stricter-immigration-enforcement-will-not-reduce-crime/) - Recent research shows that immigrants—regardless of legal status—commit property and violent crimes at lower rates than native-born citizens.
- [Was The House a Dwelling?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/was-the-house-a-dwelling/) - WA Court of Appeals upheld a defendant's criminal conviction for Residential Burglary despite his arguments that the house was not a dwelling.
- [Shackled in Court](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/shackled-in-court-2/) - A trial judge's failure to state why a jailed defendant must wear shackles, handcuffs and other restraints to court violates a defendant’s due process rights.
- [Fentanyl Is the Deadliest Drug](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/fentanyl-is-the-deadliest-drug/) - Fentanyl is now the deadliest drug in America, federal health officials announced, with more than 18,000 overdose deaths in 2016.
- ["School Search" Held Unconstitutional](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/school-search-held-unconstitutional/) - Court suppresses drugs found in a 14-year-old child’s backpack in a search conducted by the vice-principal.
- [Right to Impartial Jury](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/right-to-impartial-jury/) - A defendant’s right to a fair trial was not violated even though the trial judge failed to excuse a juror who said African American men were prone to violence.
- [Words Alone](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/words-alone/) - Words alone are not sufficient to make a defendant the primary aggressor in an altercation. 
- [Pot Convictions Pardoned](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/pot-convictions-pardoned/) - Gov. Jay Inslee will offer pardons to thousands of people with misdemeanor marijuana convictions which can hinder housing and job prospects.
- [Bounty Hunters](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bounty-hunters/) - Getting a Bounty Hunter's license is relatively easy, and hardly anyone is turned away — even if they have a history of violence.
- [Signalling Turns](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/signalling-turns/) - A motorist is not required to reactive his turn signal before turning left from the reserve lane unless public safety is implicated.
- [Unlawful Vehicle Stops](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/unlawful-vehicle-stops/) - Police may not extend a vehicle stop because a passenger refuses to identify himself, absent reasonable suspicion that a crime was committed.
- [Firearms & Terry Stops](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/firearms-terry-stops/) - An individual openly carrying a handgun in public is insufficient, by itself, to support an investigatory stop.
- [Seattle Police Accountability Report: More Use of Force Against African Americans](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/seattle-police-accountability-report-more-use-of-force-against-african-americans/) - Study says Seattle police use force at low levels but still can’t fully explain why it is used against African Americans at disproportionately higher rates.
- [Proposed Legislation Makes It Easier to Remove Criminal Convictions.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/proposed-legislation-makes-it-easier-to-remove-criminal-convictions/) - A proposed state law, HB 1041, would make it easier for people to remove misdemeanors and felonies from their criminal record.
- [Report Offers Recommendations on Pretrial Release](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/report-offers-recommendations-on-pretrial-release/) - Recent report claims Washington courts have opportunities to safely release citizens who are charged with criminal offenses and awaiting trial.
- [Victim Restitution](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/victim-restitution/) - The obligation to pay restitution in possession of stolen property cases is only limited to damage that the State can prove was caused by the defendant.
- [Many Washington Inmates Are Eligible for Release.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/many-washington-inmates-are-eligible-for-release/) - State auditor reports many inmates in Washington jails are eligible for release based on their unlikelihood to commit new crimes and attend future court dates.
- [Car Stop & Purse Search](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/car-stop-purse-search/) - A passenger’s consent to a search of her purse was not made unlawful by police conduct during a traffic stop.
- [Marijuana & Necessity](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/marijuana-necessity/) - A defendant in possession of more than 40 grams of marijuana who asserts a necessity defense must present a medical expert witness to support the defense.
- [Washington Crime Report Released](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-crime-report-released/) - Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs just released its 2017 Crime in Washington Annual Report.
- [Credit Card Value](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/credit-card-value/) - A credit card need not be able to obtain something of value at the time it is found on a defendant. It only needs value when it was possessed by its owner.
- [Books Banned in WA Prisons](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/books-banned-in-wa-prisons/) - The Washington State Department of Corrections adopted a new policy which disallows books to be donated to prisons through nonprofit organizations.
- [Necessity Defense vs. Climate Change](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/necessity-defense-vs-climate-change/) - A defendant charged with burglary in the second degree after he broke into a pipeline facility and turned off a valve was entitled to a Necessity defense.
- [Opioid Company Faces Federal Criminal Charges](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/opioid-company-faces-federal-criminal-charges/) - Rochester Drug Co-Operative, a major opioid drug distribution company, its former CEO and another top executive have been criminally charged in New York.
- [Neuroscience Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/neuroscience-defense/) - More criminal defendants are turning to brain science to argue that they shouldn't face harsh punishment.
- [Suppress Evidence or Dismiss the Case?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/suppress-evidence-or-dismiss-the-case/) - When an appellate court vacates a conviction based on illegally seized evidence, the remedy is remand to suppress evidence and not out-rightly dismiss the case.
- ["Am I Free To Leave?"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/am-i-free-to-leave/) - A "seizure" of a person occurs when an officer’s words and action would have conveyed to an innocent person that his or movements are being restricted.
- [A Snowmobile Is Not a Motor Vehicle](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/a-snowmobile-is-not-a-motor-vehicle/) - A snowmobile is not a “motor vehicle” for under Washington's Theft of a Motor Vehicle statute.
- [Cities Can't Criminalize Homelessness](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/cities-cant-criminalize-homelessness/) - Law enforcement cannot arrest or punish people for sleeping on public property unless they provide adequate and relatively accessible indoor accommodations.
- [38-Year Delay Violates Speedy Trial](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/a-38-year-delay-violates-speedy-trial/) - A defendant’s constitutional speedy trial rights were violated by a 38-year gap between charging and the defendant’s first appearance in the trial court.
- [Whatcom County Jail Settles ACLU Lawsuit](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/whatcom-county-jail-settles-aclu-lawsuit/) - The Whatcom County Jail will begin implementing an opioid addiction treatment program to inmates who are addicted to opiate-based drugs.
- [Terry Stop Held Unlawful](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/terry-stop-held-unlawful/) - An anonymous tip that a person saw a black male with a gun does not give a reasonable suspicion to make a Terry stop, where possession of a firearm is lawful.
- [A Police Vest Is a Uniform](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/a-police-vest-is-a-uniform/) - A vest issued by the police department that the officer wore over civilian clothes was, in fact, a uniform because it said "police" in reflective letters.
- [More Women In Prison](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/more-women-in-prison/) - Over the past quarter century, there has been a profound change in the involvement of women within the criminal justice system.
- [Washington Is Toughest State to Get a Driver's License](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-is-toughest-state-to-get-a-drivers-license/) - Washington is the toughest state to obtain a driver's license.
- [Flowers v. Mississippi: Supreme Court Finds Race-Based Peremptory Strikes Unlawful](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/flowers-v-mississippi-supreme-court-finds-race-based-peremptory-strikes-unlawful/) - Prosecutor's use of peremptory strikes to systematically eliminate black jurors in the defendant’s sixth trial was motivated by discriminatory intent.
- [Self-Defense in Jail](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/self-defense-in-jail/) - a defendant was entitled to a self-defense instruction even though he did not testify that he feared his opponent would badly beat him.
- [Drunk Bicycling](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/drunk-bicycling/) - It is legal to text while riding bike on a public road. Washington’s distracted driving law applies to a person driving a motor vehicle, not riding a bicycle.
- [Overcoming Implicit Bias](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/overcoming-implicit-bias/) - A trial court failed to adequately oversee allegations of racism and implicit bias among jurors deliberating in a Shoreline man’s assault and murder trial.
- [Federal Government Seeks Death Penalty](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/federal-government-seeks-death-penalty/) - The federal government will resume executions of death row inmates after a nearly two-decade hiatus.
- [Fines Increase for Carpool Cheaters](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/fines-increase-for-carpool-cheaters/) - A new state law that increases fines for carpool lane cheaters goes into effect.
- ["New Hope Act" Goes In Effect](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-hope-act-goes-in-effect/) - New legislation streamlines and modifies the process for people with criminal records to vacate convictions after a period of time.
- [Vacate Your Pot Conviction](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/vacate-your-pot-conviction/) - Easy and free directions for vacating a prior marijuana conviction under Governor Inslee's Marijuana Pot Initiative.
- [Court Denies "Community Caretaking" Argument](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/court-denies-community-caretaking-argument/) - Court dismissed Possession of Stolen Vehicle charges because the Community Caretaking Exception to the warrant requirement did not apply.
- [Summer DUI Enforcement Patrols Begin](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/summer-dui-enforcement-patrols-begin/) - As the deadliest time of the year for DUI crashes nears, police department across Washington will boost DUI patrols starting August 14th.
- [Bellingham Police Department Conducts Distracted Driving Emphasis](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellingham-police-department-conducts-distracted-driving-emphasis/) - There will be a distracted driving emphasis on Friday, August 16th from 10:00am-2:00pm. Areas of emphasis are Lakeway/Ellis Streets and Holly St to State St.
- [Appearance of Fairness](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/appearance-of-fairness/) - Trial courts must give specific reasons necessitating enhanced security before allowing a police officer to be stationed next to a testifying defendant.
- [Lawmakers Consider Giving Judges More Discretion](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/lawmakers-consider-giving-judges-more-discretion/) - The WA State commission recommends giving judges more discretion in how they sentence adults convicted of felonies.
- [Exigent Circumstances Support Warrantless Blood Draw](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/exigent-circumstances-support-warrantless-blood-draw/) - Court of Appeals held exigent circumstances supported a warrantless blood draw at the scene from a driver arrested for vehicular homicide and vehicular assault.
- [Are Long Prison Sentences Necessary?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/are-long-prison-sentences-necessary/) - Our criminal justice system lacks the ability to allow people in prison to obtain release once they have proven to no longer pose a danger to our communities.
- [Whatcom County's Inmate Transport & Housing Contracts In Jeopardy](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/whatcom-countys-inmate-transport-housing-contracts-in-jeopardy/) - The Yakima County Department of Corrections will not accept inmates from Whatcom County next year, forcing officials to find alternatives to housing inmates.
- [WA Supreme Court Invalidates "Community Caretaking" Search](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-supreme-court-invalidates-community-caretaking-search/) - A police officer’s warrantless entry into the defendant’s home was pretextual because the officers were suspicious, if not convinced, that a crime took place.
- [Reconsider Long Prison Sentences?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/reconsider-long-prison-sentences/) - Our society must reconsider long prison sentences as the prison population gets older and essentially ages out of criminal behavior.
- [Violent Crime Decreased - Except Rape](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/violent-crime-decreases-except-rape/) - New studies show that despite the overall drop in violent crime, rape rises for the sixth straight year.
- [NCO's & Double Jeopardy](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/ncos-double-jeopardy/) - A defendant who contacted a person with three separate No-Contact Orders (NCO's) against him may only be punished for a single count.
- [The Role of the Prosecutor](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-role-of-the-prosecutor/) - The National District Attorneys Association released an informative and introspective video titled, "The Role of the Prosecutor."
- [Inventory Searches, Automatic Standing, & Stolen Vehicles.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/inventory-searches-automatic-standing-stolen-vehicles/) - Defendants in possession of a stolen vehicle may challenge the search of the vehicle. However, closed and locked containers may be opened during the search.
- [Some States Are Suppressing BAC Results](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bac-results/) - Judges in Massachusetts, New Jersey and Pennsylvania have recently thrown out more than 42,000 breath tests due to human errors and lax governmental oversight.
- [Search Incident to Arrest](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/search-incident-to-arrest/) - a search of an arrestee’s person, purses or handbags extends to closed, but not locked containers found on their person at the time of arrest.
- [A Cell Phone "Ping" Is a Search](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/a-cell-phone-ping-is-a-search/) - WA Supreme Court held that cell phone “ping” investigations are indeed a search under the WA Constitution and the Fourth Amendment.
- [Warrant Quash Day!](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/warrant-quash-day/) - the Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is holding their annual Warrant Quash Day event Wednesday, November 20, 2019 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
- [Unlawful Search Of Electronic Devices at Airports](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/unlawful-search-of-electronic-devices-at-airports/) - Federal Court rules Government must have reasonable suspicion of digital contraband before searching people’s electronic devices at the U.S. border.
- [Body Camera Evidence Admissible](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/body-camera-evidence-admissible/) - Police body camera evidence does not violate Washington's Privacy Act because police interactions with suspects and witnesses are not private conversations.
- [Holiday DUI Patrols](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/holiday-dui-patrols/) - Law enforcement in Whatcom County, Skagit County and across the State are conducting DUI patrols as we enter the holidays.
- [State-Created Danger Doctrine and Domestic Violence Victims](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-created-danger-doctrine-and-domestic-violence-victims/) - State-Created Danger Doctrine applies where police officers make remarks to DV offenders which embolden the attacker to continue their abuse of the victim.
- [Rape By Forcible Compulsion or Consent?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/rape-by-forcible-compulsion-or-consent/) - A defendant charged with rape by forcible compulsion is not entitled to a jury instruction that requires the State to prove the absence of consent.
- [New Year's Eve DUI Patrols](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-years-eve-dui-patrols/) - The WA State Patrol (WSP) issued a press release stating WSP Troopers will be out looking for impaired drivers this week in preparation for the New Year.
- [Sexsomnia](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/sexsomnia/) - Court denied defendant's Sexsomnia defense, which is an abnormal activity similar to sleepwalking that involves people engaging in sexual acts during sleep.
- [Support Legislation Ending Felony Charges for Missing a Court Hearing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/support-legislation-ending-felony-charges-for-missing-a-court-hearing/) - Legislation proposed by WA Representative Mike Pellicciotti could possibly put an end to the travesty of "Bail Jumping" charges.
- [Meth Hurts Opioid Treatment](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/meth-hurts-opioid-treatment/) - A new study found that methamphetamine use was associated with more than twice the risk for dropping out of treatment for opioid-use disorder.
- [Felony Voting Rights Bill Pending in WA Legislature](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/felony-voting-rights-bill-pending-in-wa-legislature/) - State Senate Democrats advance bill to restore felons’ voting rights faster.
- [End ICE Courthouse Arrests](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/end-ice-courthouse-arrests/) - SB 6522 would prohibit federal immigration agents without a warrant from making arrests within one mile of a courthouse.
- [Unlawful Jury Selection](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/unlawful-jury-selection/) - Seating a juror without questions from defense counsel or the court into her ability to be fair can never be harmless and requires a new trial.
- [Imprisoned At 7-11](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/imprisoned-at-7-11/) - In Unlawful Imprisonment charges, the State must prove the defendant knowingly restrained another person, not that the defendant acted without legal authority.
- [Criminal Justice Bills Passed & Failed in the Senate](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/criminal-justice-bills-passed-failed-in-the-senate/) - Several bills recently passed and failed in the Senate, covering a wide array of issues related to criminal justice.
- [Crime Rates By WA Cities](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/crime-rates-by-wa-cities/) - A new study shows that although Washington cities are lower than average violent crime, there's an increase in property crime.
- [No Interpreter is Court Mismanagement](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/no-interpreter-is-court-mismanagement/) - A trial court judge may dismiss a criminal prosecution due to the court’s failure to arrange for an interpreter for all scheduled court hearings.
- [Anti-Swatting Bill](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/anti-swatting-bill/) - SB 6295 aims to cut down on swatting by increasing criminal penalties for those who make a false report they know is likely to generate an emergency response.
- [Washington State Bans ‘Gay Panic’ Defense of Homicide](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-state-bans-gay-panic-defense-of-homicide/) - Washington became the 10th state to prohibit homicide defendants from claiming a defense based on panic over a victim’s sexual orientation or gender identity.
- [Study Shows BMW Drivers Are More Rude & Obnoxious](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/study-shows-bmw-drivers-are-more-rude-obnoxious/) - A new study in the Journal of International Psychology finds that many owners of high-status luxury cars are actually more rude and subject to Road Rage.
- [Coronavirus Suspends Local Jury Trials](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/coronavirus-suspends-local-jury-trials/) - Whatcom County courts are suspending all jury trials until early April and May, respectively, due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
- [Skagit Courts Respond to Coronavirus](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/skagit-courts-respond-to-coronavirus/) - When it comes to COVID-19, Skagit County Superior Court judges are having to weigh the balance between justice and public health.
- [Coronavirus Upends Justice System](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/coronavirus-upends-justice-system/) - Across the country, attempts to slow the spread of the deadly coronavirus have thrown the criminal justice system into disarray.
- [Blaine Police Department Asks For ‘Nefarious Behavior to Cease’ Due to Coronavirus](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/blaine-police-department-asks-for-nefarious-behavior-to-cease-due-to-coronavirus/) - Blaine Police Department Asks For ‘Nefarious Behavior to Cease’ Due to Coronavirus.
- [Police Stop Booking Some People Into Whatcom Jail Due To Coronavirus](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/police-stop-booking-some-people-into-whatcom-jail-due-to-coronavirus/) - Police won't book some people into Whatcom jail in an effort to stop the spread, and introduction of, the novel coronavirus into the jail.
- ["Emergency Order" Laws](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-of-emergency-orders/) - Criminal laws surrounding Social Distancing and/or proper distancing help prevent the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) when people are in large groups.
- [Justice for the Jailed](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/justice-for-the-jailed/) - The challenges of getting justice for jailed defendants in the age of Coronavirus.
- [Coronavirus-Related Crimes Increase](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/coronavirus-related-crimes-increase/) - Coronavirus-related fraud are on the rise, along with concerns about hate crimes.
- [COVID-19 Brings DV Crimes?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/covid-19-brings-dv-crimes/) - Domestic violence abuse activists fear an ‘Explosive Cocktail’ arising from families being isolated at home due to "Stay at Home" orders from government.
- [Jail Populations Are At Risk For Spreading CV-19](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/jail-populations-are-at-risk-for-spreading-cv-19/) - Churning people through jails threatens to accelerate the spread of COVID-19, endangering the incarcerated, the staff and the community.
- ["You're In Contempt!"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/youre-in-contempt/) - A defendant who responded inappropriately to the judge when the judge scolded him for speaking ill of the prosecutor was properly found in contempt.
- [Investigative Stop](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/investigative-stop/) - A police officer's traffic stop was reasonably conducted after the officer ran the vehicle’s license plate and discovered the driver's license was revoked.
- [Entrapment & Sex Crimes](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/entrapment-sex-crimes/) - A defendant cannot claim Entrapment by responding to a fake Craigslist add created by police officers conducting an online sting operation.
- [Nearly 1,000 Inmates To Be Released In Washington State](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/nearly-1000-inmates-to-be-released-in-washington-state/) - Washington state intends to release up to 950 inmates confined in Washington state prisons to stop a potential widespread outbreak of COVID-19.
- [DUI & Opinion Evidence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/dui-opinion-evidence/) - A police officer, who is not a Drug Recognition Expert, may not opine that a motorist was showing signs of being impaired by drugs at the time of an accident.
- [Some Crimes Decreasing Amid COVID-19](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/some-crimes-decreasing-amid-covid-19/) - Amid COVID-19, crime rates in some of the biggest U.S. cities have dropped -- with a few exceptions.
- [Guilty Verdicts Must Be Unanimous](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/guilty-verdicts-must-be-unanimous/) - The Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution requires that guilty verdicts for criminal trials to be unanimous.
- [Miranda & Border Detention](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/miranda-border-detention/) - Detaining someone for five hours in a locked room at a border crossing station creates an environment that requires Miranda warnings.
- [Decrease in DV Reporting](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/decrease-in-dv-reporting/) - Whatcom County agencies helping DV victims say they’ve seen a decline in the number of abuse reports since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- [Disruptive Defendants](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/disruptive-defendants/) - A trial judge did not abuse her discretion by finding that a defendant waived his right to be present when the defendant was disruptive at trial.
- [Inmates Sew Gowns & Masks In Fight Against Coronavirus](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/inmates-sew-gowns-masks-in-fight-against-coronavirus/) - An inmate group called the Sisters of Charity sew gowns, masks and other PPE in the fight against the coronavirus.
- [Victim's Motive To Testify](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/victims-motive-to-testify/) - A trial judge mistakenly suppressed evidence about a victim's knowledge that the defendant's criminal conviction at trial would result in his deportation.
- [A Snowmobile IS a Motor Vehicle](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/a-snowmobile-is-a-motor-vehicle/) - WA Supreme Court decides a snowmobile IS, in fact, a motor vehicle and susceptible to prosecution under Washington's Theft of a Motor Vehicle Statute.
- [Virtual Dating & DV](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/virtual-dating-dv/) - A “dating relationship” can occur where parties exchange numerous romantic electronic messages, yet never experienced a traditional, in-person “date.”
- [Memorial Day DUI Patrols](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/memorial-day-dui-patrols/) - WA State Patrol (WSP) informed the public that troopers will be out in full force to ensure motorists have a safe Memorial Day weekend.
- [Suspended License Pullover](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/suspended-license-pullover/) - The Fourth Amendment allows police to stop a car when the only reason police have for the stop is that the car’s registered owner has a suspended license.
- [Passive Obstructing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/passive-obstructing/) - a defendant’s faking sleep when contacted by police and his repeated refusals to obey commands gave ample evidence to support an Obstructing conviction.
- [ICE Detainees Getting Coronavirus](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/ice-detainees-getting-coronavirus/) - ICE's practice of transferring detainees around the country is leading to COVID-19 outbreaks.
- [Inslee Names First Black Woman Justice to Serve on WA Supreme Court](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/inslee-appoints-first-black-woman-justice-to-serve-on-wa-supreme-court/) - What newly appointed WA Supreme Court Justice G. Helen Whitener does next will shape whether Washington State moves in a more progressive direction.
- [Police Reform Legislation](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/police-reform-legislation/) - House Democrats released a bill to reform policing amid a nationwide reckoning over brutality and systemic racism.
- [Washington Supreme Court Issues Open Letter Confronting Racial Injustice](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-supreme-court-issues-open-letter-confronting-racial-injustice/) - The Washington Supreme Court issued an open letter to the legal community urging lawyers to take steps to confront racial injustices in society and in the law.
- [Forged Bank Applications](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/forged-bank-applications/) - A bank account application is a “written instrument” under Washington's forgery statute.
- [Illegal Search At Starbucks](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/illegal-search-at-starbucks/) - The search of an individual in a Starbucks was unlawful and the evidence found was suppressible because the officer was not conducting a criminal investigation.
- [Consecutive v. Concurrent Sentencing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/consecutive-v-concurrent-sentencing/) - Firearm enhancements must be served consecutively in cases in which the defendant was 18-years or older when s/he committed the crimes.
- [No Mask? Criminal Charge!](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/no-mask-criminal-charge/) - Everyone in the state, minus a few exceptions, will now have to wear a face mask, and will be charged with a misdemeanor crime if they fail to do so.
- [(Online!) Organized Retail Theft: No Such Thing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/online-organized-retail-theft-no-such-thing/) - Theft by ordering items online will not support a conviction for organized retail theft because the takings are not from a “mercantile establishment."
- [Exigent Circumstances for Warrantless Blood Draw](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/exigent-circumstances-for-warrantless-blood-draw/) - Exigent circumstances justified the warrantless blood draw done at the scene of a car collision where the driver exhibited the effects of alcohol consumption.
- [Reasonable Suspicion & 911 Calls](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/reasonable-suspicion-911-calls/) - The search of a man in his car was reasonable under the circumstances when the patrons of a bar called 911 minutes before to report the same man had a pistol.
- [True Threats](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/true-threats/) - A 17-year-old girl's texts to friends airing grievances about her mother did not constitute "true threats" under the felony harassment statute.
- [Shackling Defendants In Court - Without Reason - Is Unconstitutional.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/shackling-defendants-in-court-without-reason-is-unconstitutional/) - Shackling a defendant at any stage of court proceedings without a specific inquiry into whether shackles are necessary violates constitutional rights.
- [Excessive Parking Fines](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/excessive-parking-fines/) - The Eighth Amendment’s Excessive Fines Clause applies to excessive municipal parking fines.
- [Alcohol Consumption Increases During Coronavirus Pandemic](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/alcohol-consumption-increases-during-coronavirus-pandemic/) - As the coronavirus pandemic stretches into the year, more adults are drinking to cope, and alcohol sales have surged across the country, a new study says.
- [Federal Government Encourages Men to Limit Drinking to Once a Day](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/federal-government-encourages-men-to-limit-drinking-to-once-a-day/) - The federal government is advising men to not drink more than one alcoholic beverage a day in the wake of the Coronavirus Pandemic.
- [Prosecutor's "War On Drugs" Comments Deprived Defendant of a Fair Trial](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/prosecutors-war-on-drugs-comments-deprived-defendant-of-a-fair-trial/) - The Prosecutor's comments during trial advocating the "War on Drugs" deprives a defendant of a fair trial.
- [Improper Opinion Testimony](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/improper-opinion-testimony/) - At trial, it's inappropriate for a police officer to give their opinion regarding the guilt of the defendant or the credibility of witnesses.
- [Cloud Storage & Privacy](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/cloud-storage-privacy/) - A person holds no privacy interest in photos obtained by an internet cloud storage service provider who then gives the images to law enforcement.
- [Study Finds Police Misconduct Leads to Wrongful Convictions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/study-finds-police-misconduct-leads-to-wrongful-convictions/) - Actions by police officers account for the majority of the misconduct leading to wrongful convictions.
- [Crime Fell In First 6 Months of COVID](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/crime-fell-in-first-6-months-of-covid/) - FBI reports that violent and property crime both plunged across the United States in the first six months of 2020 as the coronavirus outbreak swept the country.
- [Privacy & Text Messages](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/privacy-text-messages/) - A police officer violates a defendant’s rights by sending a text message to the defendant from an unfamiliar phone number while impersonating someone else.
- [ACLU Sues DOL](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/aclu-sues-dol/) - ACLU files lawsuit against Washington Department of Licensing for suspending licenses of individuals who cannot afford to pay fines for moving violations.
- [Assault or Swim Lesson?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/assault-of-a-child-or-swimming-lesson/) - Defendant's repeated submerging of a toddler in a river was insufficient to establish that toddler experienced substantial pain and/or considerable suffering.
- [Right to Present a Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/right-to-present-a-defense/) - The court's exclusion of a victim's toxicology report indicating meth use at the time of death did not violate the defendant’s right to present a defense.
- [Coronavirus Crime Trends](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/coronavirus-crime-trends/) - Excellent and informative article in Safewise.com written by lead safety reporter and in-house expert Rebecca Edwards gives us updates on the latest crime statistics and trends in the major cities throughout the Coronavirus pandemic. The gist? "It depends on who you ask. From a research standpoint, it’s difficult to make a sweeping assumption—even after six
- [FBI Releases 2019 Hate Crime Statistics](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/fbi-releases-2019-hate-crime-statistics/) - The FBI released Hate Crime Statistics, 2019, which is its latest compilation about bias-motivated incidents throughout the nation.
- [Constructive Possession](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/constructive-possession/) - WA Court of Appeals finds a defendant had constructive possession over the illegal drugs discovered on the back floorboards of the car he was driving.
- [President-elect Joe Biden on the U.S. Drug Epidemic](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/president-elect-joe-biden-on-the-u-s-drug-epidemic/) - President-elect Joe Biden will emphasize drug treatment and prevention, not law enforcement, in addressing a worsening drug epidemic during the Pandemic.
- [Animal Cruelty Has Risen](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/animal-cruelty-has-risen/) - Prosecutors in Washington state have reported an increase in animal cruelty cases in King County, raising concerns among law enforcement and animal agencies.
- [The Consequences of Arrest Leads to Different Outcomes for Black, White Youth](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/police-contact-by-middle-school-leads-to-different-outcomes-for-black-white-youth/) - UW Study shows that for Black youth, an encounter with police predicts they will be arrested by young adulthood – but the same is not true for white youth.
- [Survey Finds Binge Drinking Increased Nearly 20% Every Week of COVID Lockdowns](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/survey-finds-binge-drinking-increased-nearly-20-every-week-of-covid-lockdowns/) - Study finds that the longer adults spent time lodged in their homes during coronavirus lockdowns, the more they consumed alcohol.
- [Twitch Cracks Down on Hate Speech & Harassment](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/twitch-cracks-down-on-hate-speech-and-harassment/) - Twitch unveiled new guidelines aimed at cracking down on hateful conduct and sexual harassment on its site.
- [Prosecuting Poverty?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/should-we-be-prosecuting-crimes-of-poverty/) - Seattle lawmakers are considering a law that would excuse suspects from most misdemeanor crimes if they can be linked to poverty or mental illness.
- [Average Washingtonian Drinks Six Days in a Row During Holidays](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/average-washingtonian-drinks-six-days-in-a-row-during-holidays/) - A survey finds the average Washingtonian drinks for six days in a row over the holiday season, without having a day off.
- [DUI's Raise Insurance](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/duis-raise-insurance/) - Long after the arrest, conviction, jail time and court fines, the consequences of a DUI also increase the cost of insurance for offenders.
- [Covid & Drug Overdoses](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/covid-drug-overdoses/) - Over 81,000 drug overdose deaths occurred in the U.S. in the 12-month period ending in May 2020. That’s the highest number ever recorded by the CDC.
- [Jail Phone Calls](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/jail-phone-calls/) - An inmate’s phone call with counsel that was recorded and was accessed by a deputy prosecuting attorney did not establish a basis for dismissal of charges.
- [WA: Bad State to Drive](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-bad-state-to-drive/) - Washington is one of the nation's worst states to drive in, according to a new study.
- [Ending Money Bond](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/ending-money-bond/) - Illinois is poised to become the first state in the country to end the use of wealth-based pre-trial detention.
- [No More Police Chokeholds](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/house-bill-1054/) - House Bill 1054 states that police cannot use chokeholds, neck restraints or unleashed police dogs or tear gas.
- [Banning Armed Protests](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/banning-armed-protests/) - The Washington State Capitol has long been the site of armed and unarmed protests. Until recently, armed protests at the Capitol have taken place without violence, bloodshed or gunfire. In December, however, shots were fired at two clashes between demonstrators who were pro-former President Donald Trump and counterdemonstrators near the Capitol grounds, injuring one person.
- [Domestic Violence: The Pandemic Within the Pandemic](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/domestic-violence-the-pandemic-within-the-pandemic/) - Growing evidence shows the Coronavirus pandemic has made Domestic Violence more common—and often more severe.
- [Decriminalize Personal Use](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/decriminalize-personal-use/) - On Thursday, Washington lawmakers introduced House Bill 1499. This bill would work to decriminalize personal use of drug possession and expand treatment and support services. The bill is sponsored by State Rep. Lauren Davis, a 32nd District Democrat from Shoreline, who represents portions of Edmonds, Lynnwood and Mountlake Terrace. According to the Washington State Department
- [Opioid Overdoses Spiked](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/opioid-overdoses-spiked/) - A new study indicates that the opioid crisis in the US is deepening. According to latest research, the opioid epidemic did not disappear. Rather, it lurked in the shadows of the coronavirus pandemic, growing in strength and taking advantage of a society now more susceptible than ever. In a large cross-sectional study published in JAMA Psychiatry
- [Prison Inmates Retaliated Against for Getting COVID-19](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/prison-inmates-retaliated-against-for-getting-covid-19/) - People in work release programs say getting sick can get you thrown back into prison, where there’s still no plan for containment.Excellent article by Lilly Fowler of Crosscut reports that prisoners, attorneys and other advocates said the WA Department of Corrections has not only been careless with protocols meant to keep COVID-19 cases in check, but has also lashed out at those who become ill. They accuse the department of stigmatizing those who become sick with
- [Unwitting Possession](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/unwitting-possession/) - In State v. Blake , the WA Supreme Court held that Washington's Drug Possession Statute exceeds the state’s police power by imposing harsh felony consequences on innocent non-conduct. FACTUAL BACKGROUND In 2016, police executed a search warrant in Spokane, Washington, seeking evidence of stolen vehicles. They arrested three people on the property, including the Defendant Ms. Washington's Drug Possession statute exceeds the state’s police power by imposing harsh felony consequences on innocent conduct and lack of evidence of intent.
- [A Return to Jury Trials](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/32240-2/) - Whatcom County Superior Court will resume 12-person jury trials starting March 15, according to a Wednesday afternoon press release from Whatcom County Superior Court Judge Rob Olson. Several Whatcom County courts, including the Superior Court, used emergency administrative orders to suspend jury trials in mid-March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Judge Robert Olson's March 3 news release
- [Drug Cases Dismissed](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/drug-cases-dismissed/) - 150 Whatcom County drug cases are dismissed due to the WA Supreme Court's ruling on drug possession cases in State v. Blake.
- [COVID-19 Impact on Trials](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/covid-19-impact-on-trials/) - Excellent article in Time magazine by reporter Melissa Chan discusses the Coronavirus Pandemic's impact on our criminal justice system. Since COVID-19 was declared a national emergency in March 2020, every state and Washington, D.C., has canceled or scaled back in-person criminal court proceedings to stem the spread of the virus. The snarled justice system has left hundreds
- [Women Are Reportedly Drinking More During COVID Pandemic](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/women-are-drinking-more/) - Women are reportedly consuming more alcohol during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
- [Prosecutor Opposes Suspending Driver’s Licenses for Failure to Pay Traffic Tickets](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/prosecutor-opposes-suspending-drivers-licenses-for-failure-to-pay-traffic-tickets/) - Whatcom County Prosecutor opposes suspending driver’s licenses for failure to pay traffic tickets.
- [COVID-19 Leads to Backlog of Criminal Cases](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/covid-19-leads-to-backlog/) - Whatcom Superior Court now faces a considerable backlog of unresolved cases due to the Coronavirus Pandemic.
- [Pot Sales Boomed in Washington During COVID-19 Pandemic](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/pot-sales-boomed-in-washington-during-covid-pandemic/) - A new Leafly report shows that national sales boomed during the COVID-19 Pandemic in 2020, including in Washington, leading to growth in revenue and jobs. Also, Leafly's more recent Jobs Report shows that nationally, cannabis sales saw a 71% surge between 2019 and 2020. And Americans bought $18.3 billion worth of pot products in 2020,
- [Lesser Included Offense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/32634-2/) - A defendant is entitled to a lesser included offense instruction when a jury could reasonably find that the defendant committed only the lesser offense.
- [Lawsuit Seeks COVID-19 Vaccines for Inmates](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/lawsuit-seeks-covid-19-vaccines-for-inmates/) - Columbia Legal Services has sued the state Department of Corrections, demanding that all state prison inmates immediately receive COVID-19 vaccines.
- [COVID-19 Increased Crime](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/covid-19-increased-crime/) - The U.S. saw a significant crime rise across major cities in 2020 during the Coronavirus Pandemic. Worse, it doesn't appear to be letting up.
- [Openly Carrying A Sword](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/openly-carrying-a-sword/) - Court of Appeals upheld the Defendant's conviction for violating an local ordinance prohibiting the carrying of a sword, classified as dangerous weapon.
- [Senate Passes Bill to Recriminalize Drug Possession](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/senate-passes-bill-to-recriminalize-drug-possession/) - The Senate approved a bill Thursday that would make drug possession a gross misdemeanor and require diversion to treatment for a person’s first two offenses.
- [COVID Increases Overdoses](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/32878-2/) - Synthetic opioid fatalities rose by an unprecedented 55% during the twelve months ending in September 2020, all within the Coronavirus Pandemic.
- [Deliberate Cruelty](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/deliberate-cruelty/) - In State v. Burrus, the WA Court of Appeals held there was sufficient evidence the defendant demonstrated deliberate cruelty to the victim when he poured gasoline on the victim, lit a flare and set the victim on fire. BACKGROUND FACTS Mr. Burrus poured gasoline on victim Mr. Busch and threw a lit flare at him, Sufficient evidence existed showing the defendant demonstrated deliberate cruelty to the victim when he poured gasoline on the victim and set him on fire.
- [Right to Present A Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/right-to-present-defense/) - Trial court mistakenly excluded evidence that the victim flirted with the defendant and sat on his lap at the party where the unlawful sexual contact occurred.
- [New Law Offers Prison Alternatives for Mentally Ill](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-law-offers-prison-alternatives-for-mentally-ill/) - Reporter Austin Jenkins of the Northwest News Network wrote an article reporting that Washington Gov. Jay Inslee has signed a measure that will soon offer an alternative to prison for people with a serious mental illness who commit a crime. Under the new law signed Monday by Inslee, judges will have the option to sentence Gov. Jay Inslee has signed a measure that will soon offer an alternative to prison for people with a serious mental illness who commit a crime.
- [Emergency Exception to the Warrant Requirement](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/emergency-exception-to-the-warrant-requirement/) - Officer's opening of the defendant's unlocked front door was a search that was not justified by Exigent Circumstances exception to the warrant requirement.
- [Supreme Court Sides with Police Officer who Improperly Searched License Plate Database](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/supreme-court-sides-with-police-officer-who-improperly-searched-license-plate-database/) - U.S. Supreme Court held that a Georgia police officer did not commit Computer Fraud when he searched a license plate database for non-official purposes.
- [Discarded DNA Admissible](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/discarded-dna-admissible/) - In State v. Bass, the WA Court of Appeals held the admission of DNA profiles developed from a plastic cup and a soda can that the defendant discarded in a garbage can at his place of employment was proper. BACKGROUND FACTS In November 1989, 18-year-old Amanda Stavik, a freshman at Central Washington University, returned home DNA evidence retrieved from a plastic cup and a soda can that are discarded in a garbage can are admissible at trial.
- [U.S. Prison Trends](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/u-s-prison-trends/) - The Sentencing Project devised a fact sheet which provides a compilation of major developments in the criminal justice system over the past several decades. Some highlights are as follows: Mass Incarceration - The United States is the world's leader in incarceration with 2 million people currently in the nation's prisons and jails — a 500% The Sentencing Project's key fact sheet provides a compilation of major developments in the criminal justice system over the past several decades.
- [As Lumber Prices Increase, Theft May Follow](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/as-lumber-prices-increase-theft-may-follow/) - Interesting article by reporter Christine Clarridge of the Seattle Times reports that the increase in lumber prices have more than tripled over the past year. Therefore, it was only a matter of time before thieves took note, said the King County Sheriff’s Office. Earlier this month, deputies arrested a man trying to get away with more Lumber prices have more than tripled over the past year. It was only a matter of time before thieves took note.
- [New Whatcom County District Court Judge To Be Appointed](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-whatcom-county-district-court-judge-to-be-appointed/) - News reporter Robert Mittendorf of the Bellingham Herald reports that Whatcom County Council members will soon appoint a new District Court judge. Applications are being accepted for a vacancy on the Whatcom County District Court that opened this month when Judge David Grant recently retired before his term ended. Whatcom County District Court consists of Whatcom County Council members will soon appoint a new District Court judge.
- [Tackle or Terry Stop?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tackle-or-terry-stop/) - Police officers exceeded the scope of a Terry Stop when they followed the suspect into a restaurant, tackled him and handcuffed him for no justifiable reason.
- [Exigent Circumstance DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/exigent-circumstance-dui/) - The pursuit of a fleeing misdemeanor DUI suspect does not always qualify as an exigent circumstance justifying a warrantless entry into a home.
- [Federal Executions Halted](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/federal-executions-halted/) - Attorney General Merrick Garland ordered a temporary stop Thursday to scheduling further federal executions.
- [Operation Dry Water](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/operation-dry-water/) - As summer approaches, Operation Dry Water — a nationally coordinated effort that focuses on boating-under-the-influence (BUI) awareness and enforcement.
- [DOJ Settles ADA Lawsuit](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/33452-2/) - Sheriff’s Office, Public Defender’s Office, and Superior Court failed to provide interpreter services to defendant who is deaf.
- [Crime Increased in 2020](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/crime-increased-in-2020/) - Overall crime in Washington State increased in 2020 according to a report released this week by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs.
- [Crime Moves Up the Agenda](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/crime-moves-up-the-agenda/) - The new survey found more Americans than at any time in the past 20 years believe crime is an “extremely serious” or “very serious” problem.
- [Cell Site Location Info](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/cell-site-location-info/) - There was a sufficient nexus between the defendant’s seized phone records and the suspected criminal activity to support the issuance of a search warrant.
- [Jury Questions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/jury-questions/) - When answering a deliberating jury's questions, a trial court has a responsibility to ensure that the jury understands the law.
- [Trial Security](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/trial-security/) - WA Court of Appeals held it was not prejudicial for jurors to go through enhanced courtroom security screening on a jury trial involving a gang murder.
- [Policing Mental Health](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/policing-mental-health/) - Washington State Attorney General’s Office is refuting claims by police that new reform legislation - HB 1310 - prevents them responding to non-criminal calls.
- [Consensual Seizures](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/consensual-seizures/) - A bus passenger consents to a warrantless search and seizure when a fare enforcement officer requests the passenger provide proof of payment.
- [Access Devices](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/access-devices/) - A paper check presented to a bank is excluded from the definition of an "access device," and will not support a conviction for Possession of Stolen Property.
- [COVID-19 Outbreak At Jail](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/covid-19-outbreak-at-jail/) - the Whatcom County Jail has seen a COVID-19 outbreak. The present outbreak has spread to 10 corrections deputies and one person housed at the jail.
- [Offender Score Post-Blake](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/offender-score-post-blake/) - Under State v. Blake, an out-of-state conviction for drug possession may not be included in the calculation of an offender score.
- [Another Jail Outbreak](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/another-jail-outbreak/) - COVID-19 outbreak in Pierce County Jail has up to 35 inmates testing positive. The jail will now only book people arrested on suspicion of violent crimes.
- [Tox Lab Contaminated](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tox-lab-contaminated/) - The WA State Toxicology Lab is contaminated with methamphetamine and cocaine, raising skepticism about the integrity of blood testing being performed.
- [Has Crime Increased?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/has-crime-increased/) - Although many individuals have benefitted from justifiable changes in bail and sentencing, crime - and especially homicide - has also increased.
- ["Unlawful" Isn't "Knowing"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/unlawful-isnt-knowing/) - In charging documents, the term "Knowledge" cannot be inferred from the use of the term “Unlawfully” in the context of a possession of stolen property charge.
- [Not a Toy, Still a Gun](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/not-a-toy-still-a-gun/) - An antique shotgun missing a bolt action is still a “firearm.” The State merely has to establish that the shotgun is a real gun, not a toy gun.
- [No More Traffic Heroes](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/no-more-traffic-heroes/) - After 37 years, the “764-HERO” program used to report carpool lane violators will end on September 22, 2021.
- [Language App Helps Police](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/language-app-helps-police/) - Tacoma police officers are now using a language translation tool to assist emergency calls when officers and the caller do not speak the same language.
- [LGBTQ Training for Police](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/lgbtq-training-for-police/) - Police departments across U.S. are mandating LGBTQ training. Some departments are doing so voluntarily, while others are being required following lawsuits.
- [Washington Department of Corrections Ends Solitary Confinement](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-department-of-corrections-ends-solitary-confinement/) - People jailed in WA prisons will no longer be subjected to disciplinary segregation — solitary confinement — after officials determined it is not effective.
- ["At The End Of The Day, It’s Race."](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/at-the-end-of-the-day-its-race/) - Task Force found that bias, racist laws and racist practices contribute to racially disproportionate treatment and outcomes in the criminal justice system.
- [Courts Are Clogged](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/courts-are-clogged/) - Whatcom County will use federal relief funds to aid courts in the growing backlog of cases that have transpired since the Coronavirus Pandemic.
- [Police Dying of COVID-19](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/police-dying-of-covid-19/) - Of the 264 police officers who died in the line of duty in 2020 across the United States, more than half died of COVID-19, according to new data.
- [Ban Invasive Policing Technology](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/ban-invasive-policing-technology/) - If police are authorized to deploy invasive face surveillance technologies, these technologies will unquestionably be used to target minorities.
- [Jail: A Good Place to Die](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/jail-a-good-place-to-die/) - Jails in Washington and Oregon have higher suicide rate than national average. Within two decades, more than 200 people have died by suicide in these jails.
- [WA State Patrol Employees Lose Jobs For Refusing to Vaccinate](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-state-patrol-workers-lose-employment-for-refusing-to-vaccinate/) - 127 people employed by WSP lost employment for refusing to get COVID-19 vaccines. They include 67 troopers, six sergeants, one captain and 53 civil servants.
- [Needle-Spiking](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/needle-spiking/) - Women are reporting being injected with syringes at crowded clubs in a horrifying variation of dropping pill into drinks.
- [Blake Case & Bail Jumping](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/blake-case-bail-jumping/) - The invalidation of the defendant's conviction for a Drug Possession charge does not affect the validity of the Bail Jumping convictions.
- [Attorney-Client Communications During COVID](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/attorney-client-communications-during-covid/) - Despite the COVID-19 Pandemic, Courts must ensure that criminally accused persons are able to confidentially communicate with counsel throughout proceedings.
- [Crowded Jail Cells](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/crowded-jail-cells/) - Crowded cells in jails across the U.S. could help the rapid spread of coronavirus. Senators have asked prison authorities to reveal contingency plans.
- [Ban Low-Level Traffic Stops](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/ban-low-level-traffic-stops/) - Philadelphia's new Driving Equity Act bars police officers from pulling over drivers for minor traffic violations with an aim to stop racism in traffic stops.
- [Washington Rated 8th Worst State for Auto Theft](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-rated-8th-worst-state-for-auto-theft/) - According to the latest report from the National Insurance Crime Bureau’s (NICB), auto thefts increased from 34,172 vehicles in 2019 to 37,465 in 2020.
- [Mapped: Countries by Alcohol Consumption Per Capita](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/mapped-countries-by-alcohol-consumption-per-capita/) - Alcohol is the oldest and most frequently used recreational substance in the world. Examining countries by alcohol consumption shows that usage is not equal.
- [Give Them An Inch . . .](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/give-them-an-inch/) - A cell phone owner who gives consent for police to search text messages also gives police the authority to use the phone to set up a "ruse" drug bust sting.
- [Thanksgiving DUI Patrols](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/thanksgiving-dui-patrols/) - DUI emphasis patrols are now happening in Pullman as WSU students travel this Thanksgiving holiday.
- [New Car Tech May Stop DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-car-tech-may-stop-dui/) - Congress has created a new requirement for automakers: Find a high-tech way to keep drunken people from driving cars.
- [Expert Witnesses on Domestic Violence & Recanting Victims](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/expert-witnesses-on-domestic-violence-recanting-victims/) - In DV jury trials, a court may allow expert testimony on a defendant's general characteristics or conduct typically exhibited by DV survivors.
- [Racial Disparities & Traffic Stops](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/racial-disparities-traffic-stops/) - A new study provides five years of data on traffic stops made by Washington State Patrol, demonstrating mixed results related to racial disparities.
- [Car Crash Deaths Have Surged During COVID-19 Pandemic.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/car-crash-deaths-have-surged-during-covid-19-pandemic/) - There were 38,680 deaths on U.S. roadways last year, the most since 2007. Experts say the COVID-19 Pandemic is to blame.
- [Pandemic Gun Sales](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/pandemic-gun-sales/) - "Time-to-crime" figures published by the ATF show that guns sold in 2020 were more likely to wind up at crime scenes within a year than in any previous period.
- [Rape By Forcible Compulsion](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/rape-by-forcible-compulsion/) - For a charge of rape by forcible compulsion, the State lacks evidence if a victim is unconscious or unable to respond b/c there is no resistance to overcome.
- [Parents in Prison](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/parents-in-prison/) - The Sentencing Project provides key facts on parents in prison and policies that impede their ability to care for their children when released from prison.
- [2021: Deadly for Drivers](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/2021-deadly-for-drivers/) - Washington ended 2021 with more fatal and serious car crashes than it’s seen in 15 years. This is an increasingly disturbing trend playing out nationwide.
- [Political Violence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/political-violence/) - Two polls reveal that a year after the January 6 Capitol Hill insurrection, Americans are increasingly likely to say political violence can be justified.
- [Should We Criminalize "Big Lies?"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/should-we-criminalize-big-lies/) - Washington Governor Jay Inslee supports legislation to make it a gross misdemeanor for politicians to issue false statements about election outcomes.
- [Do Increased Gun Sales Bring More Homicides?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/do-increased-gun-sales-bring-more-homicides/) - Recent data suggests that a massive increase in gun sales in early 2020 seems to have contributed to the recent rise in homicides.
- [The Feds Increased Prosecution of Domestic Terrorism](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-feds-increased-prosecution-of-domestic-terrorism/) - The Justice Department is forming a new domestic terrorism unit to help combat a threat that has intensified dramatically in recent years.
- [Don't Talk to Jurors!](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/dont-talk-to-jurors/) - Improper communication between the jury and court bailiff impacts the right to a fair and impartial jury. So don't talk to jurors.
- [Housing & Criminal Record](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/housing-criminal-record/) - Lawmakers are considering legislation that would prevent landlords from denying rental properties to those with a criminal record.
- [Are Court Fines Sensible?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/are-court-fines-sensible/) - A new report discusses the consequences of court fines and how court debt can plague the lives of individuals with little or no ability to pay.
- [Fleeing a Crime Scene](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/fleeing-a-crime-scene/) - Police may regain authority to use force to stop people fleeing crime scenes. Lawmakers are working on changes to last year’s sweeping police reform laws.
- [Protecting Pot Shops](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/protecting-pot-shops/) - Senate Bill 5927 is legislation that would add a year to a prison sentence of someone convicted of first- or second-degree robbery of a cannabis retailer.
- [Animal Cruelty Can Be DV](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/animal-cruelty-can-be-dv/) - The WA Supreme Court held that Animal Cruelty may be designated as a crime of domestic violence.
- [Crime Rate Increases in Whatcom County](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/crime-rate-increases-in-whatcom-county/) - Crime rates in Whatcom County have increased. As a result, the Sheriff's Office is taking on extra work because of staffing shortages at other police agencies.
- [Auto Dealership Burglaries Are On the Rise](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/auto-dealership-burglaries/) - Car thieves have become more brazen and aggressive in burglarizing auto dealerships, whether stealing whole cars or stripping them of valuable parts.
- [Gasoline Theft](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/gasoline-theft/) - King5.com reports that local police departments are warning residents of a potential increase in gas thefts. In Everett alone, at least seven gas thefts have been reported in the past six months. Some gas thieves are using rubber hoses to siphon the fuel out while others are using power tools to drill holes in gas tanks.
- [Whatcom Superior Court Relaxes COVID-19 Mask Requirements](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/whatcom-superior-court-relaxes-covid-19-mask-requirements/) - Whatcom County Superior Court has officially ended to its face-covering requirement starting March 12, 2022.
- [DUI Emphasis Patrols Start Again At WSU](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/dui-emphasis-patrols-begin-again-in-wsu/) - The WA State Patrol will conduct DUI emphasis patrols starting March 10-20 as Washington State University students travel across the state for Spring Break.
- ["Lustful Disposition" Legal Term of Art Abandoned by WA Supreme Court](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/lustful-disposition-legal-term-of-art-overruled-by-wa-supreme-court/) - In State v. Crossguns, the WA Supreme Court disapproved of the prosecution's use of the term “lustful disposition" in describing a defendant's conduct.
- [AGO Allocates $177,000.00 For Sexual Assault Kit Initiative](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/ago-allocates-177000-00-from-sexual-assault-kit-initiative/) - WA Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced he'll provide funding to 53 law enforcement agencies for expanded storage for sexual assault evidence.
- [How Will the New Gun Laws Affect Washingtonians?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/how-will-the-new-gun-laws-affect-washingtonians/) - Gov. Jay Inslee signed three new pieces of legislation into law on Wednesday concerning new regulations on guns. This will likely get challenged in court.
- [Confrontation, Video Testimony & COVID](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/confrontation-video-testimony-covid/) - The right to have witnesses present in the courtroom can be overcome and witnesses may testify by video when they had health related concerns about COVID-19.
- [Why Pot Shops Get Robbed](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/why-pot-shops-get-robbed/) - Pot shops are victims of armed robberies marijuana is federally illegal and federal law prohibits the stores from taking credit or debit card payments.
- [Fentanyl-Filled Pills Seized by US law Enforcement up 4,850%](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/fentanyl-filled-pills-seized-by-us-law-enforcement-up-4850/) - A recent study found that more than two million counterfeit fentanyl pills were confiscated in the last quarter of 2021 alone.
- [WA State Patrol Lacks Diversity, Seeks Active Recruitment of Minority Officers](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-state-patrol-lacks-diversity-seeks-active-recruitment-of-minority-officers/) - Diversity in the Washington State Patrol has been lacking for years. A new state law is putting pressure on the agency to attract and retain cadets of color.
- [Ketanji Brown Jackson to Serve on the US Supreme Court](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/ketanji-brown-jackson-to-serve-on-the-us-supreme-court/) - Ketanji Brown Jackson is a former federal judge and public defender who was confirmed as the first Black woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court.
- [New Washington State Patrol Trooper Class the 'Most Diverse' in the Agency's History](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-washington-state-patrol-trooper-class-the-most-diverse-in-the-agencys-history/) - The lack of diversity in the Washington State Patrol prompted state legislators to pass a law requiring oversight of the agency’s minority hiring practices.
- [WA Supreme Court Rules Against Edmonds Gun Storage Law](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-state-supreme-court-rules-against-edmonds-gun-storage-law/) - WA Supreme Court struck down an Edmonds gun storage ordinance and reaffirmed state law that local governments can’t impose their own firearms regulations.
- [Where You Live May Determine Whether You Get Stuck in Jail Before Trial](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/where-you-live-may-determine-whether-you-get-stuck-in-jail-before-trial/) - Alternative measures such as drug testing, electronic home monitoring, and behavioral health treatment can offer defendants alternatives to jail before trial.
- [Biden Expands Second Chance Opportunities for Formerly Incarcerated Persons](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/biden-expands-second-chance-opportunities-for-formerly-incarcerated-persons/) - During "Second Chance Month," President Biden announced the rollout of new efforts that aid former inmates in reentering the work force.
- [Prosecutor's "Gorilla Pimp" Comment Admonished by High Court](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/prosecutors-gorilla-pimp-comment-admonished-by-high-court/) - Overturning convictions is warranted when a prosecutor improperly injects race into a criminal trial and uses the term “gorilla pimp” to describe the defendant.
- [More Guns Are Being Stolen Out Of Vehicles](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/more-guns-are-being-stolen-out-of-vehicles/) - More guns are being stolen from vehicles nationwide. This alarming trend comes as shootings rise nationwide, propelled by firearms obtained illegally.
- [Drug Overdose Deaths Hit Highest Level On Record](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/drug-overdose-deaths-hit-highest-level-on-record/) - Drug overdoses in the United States were deadlier than ever in 2021, according to provisional data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- [Website Assists In Whether Criminal Conviction Can Be Removed](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/website-assists-in-whether-criminal-conviction-can-be-removed/) - A new website allowing Washington residents to determine whether they are eligible to have some criminal convictions vacated from their record.
- [WA Supreme Court Rules People Can Be Cited for DUI While Driving High](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-supreme-court-rules-people-can-be-cited-for-dui-while-driving-high/) - WA Supreme Court decides people can be cited for DUI for driving while high. The decision upholds the state law regulating marijuana use and driving.
- [High Court Decides COVID-19 Trial Restrictions Violated the 6th Amendment](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/high-court-decides-covid-19-trial-restrictions-violated-the-6th-amendment/) - The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals decided the lower court's COVID-19 trial restrictions violated the defendant’s right to a public trial under the 6th Amendment.
- [Bellingham Residents Express Concern Over Rising Crime Rates](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellingham-residents-express-concern-over-rising-crime-rates/) - The Bellingham City Council, mayor and other leaders heard from residents about their concerns about public safety at virtual community meeting.
- [U.S Supreme Court Could Soon Expand the Right to Carry Guns.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/u-s-supreme-court-could-soon-expand-the-right-to-carry-guns/) - U.S Supreme Court could soon expand the right to carry guns. New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen takes place amid rising national gun violence.
- [Washington Police Say Drivers Aren't Stopping For Them](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-police-say-drivers-arent-stopping-for-them/) - Since January of this year, more than 900 drivers have failed to stop for a Washington State Patrol trooper trying to pull them over.
- [Washington Traffic Fatalities Hit 20-Year High](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-traffic-fatalities-hit-20-year-high/) - 2022 data indicates the trend in fatalities continues to increase, with more traffic deaths in the first quarter compared with the same timeframe last year.
- [GR 37 Challenges to Striking a Potential Juror](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/gr-37-challenges-to-striking-a-potential-juror/) - In State v. Booth, the WA Court of Appeals held that a trial court's decision to deny a defendant's peremptory challenge under GR 37 was not reversible error.
- [High Court: Race Must be Considered in Determining Legality of Police Stops and Seizures](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/race-must-be-considered-in-determining-legality-of-police-stops-and-seizures/) - Washington Supreme Court rules that a person’s race should be considered when determining the legality of police seizures.
- [Offender Scores Include Bail Jumping Even When the Underlying Conviction Was Dismissed Under State v. Blake](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/offender-scores-include-bail-jumping-even-when-the-underlying-conviction-was-dismissed-under-blake/) - Convictions for Bail Jumping are included in the offender score even when an offender failed to appear in court for a Blake-related Drug Offense.
- [Proposed Federal Law Prohibits "Stealthing," Non-Consensual Condom Removal](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/proposed-federal-law-prohibits-stealthing-nonconsensual-condom-removal/) - "Stealthing," the act of removing a condom during intercourse without the other partner’s consent, is gaining attention among lawmakers.
- [Whatcom County Jail Tightens Booking Restrictions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/whatcom-county-jail-tightens-booking-restrictions/) - Sheriff's Office decides to stop booking people suspected of misdemeanor offenses and most suspected of gross misdemeanors.
- [Kitsap Judges' Ruling Could Invalidate DUI Convictions Statewide](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/kitsap-judges-ruling-could-invalidate-dui-convictions-statewide/) - The Kitsap County District Court rules that Breathalyzer tests from the Draeger Blood Alcohol Test Machine violate state law.
- [U.S. Supreme Court Expands Gun Rights](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/u-s-supreme-court-expands-gun-rights/) - In New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, the U.S. Supreme Court held that Americans have a right to carry firearms in public for Self-Defense.
- [Lawsuit: Washington State Patrol Misused Breathalyzer Tests, Misconstrued Readings](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/lawsuit-washington-state-patrol-misused-breathalyzer-tests-misconstrued-readings/) - Lawsuit alleges that a top Washington State Patrol toxicologist routinely misrepresented how BAC machines calculate DUI suspects’ blood alcohol content level.
- ["Operation Dry Water" Works to Reduce Boating Under the Influence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/operation-dry-water-2/) - Operation Dry Water is a national awareness and enforcement campaign focused on reducing the number of alcohol and drug-related boating accidentsfatalities.
- [WA State Cracks Down on Organized Retail Theft](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-state-cracks-down-on-organized-retail-theft/) - A task force comprised of multiple law enforcement agencies and retail chains has the goal of coordinating their efforts to crack down on retail crime rings.
- [Criminal Conviction Reversed on Prosecutor's Race-Based Misconduct & Voir Dire.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/criminal-conviction-reversed-on-prosecutors-race-based-misconduct-voir-dire/) - A Prosecutor committed misconduct when, during jury selection, he repeatedly asked the potential jurors about their views on unlawful immigration.
- [Low-Level Robbery Won't Get A Reduced Sentence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/de-minimis-robbery-wont-get-an-exceptional-downward-sentence/) - The low-level nature of a crime can support an argument for an exceptional sentence below the standard sentencing range. However, that doesn't apply to Robbery.
- [Washington Supreme Court Will Address How to Reduce Racial Disparities & Reform Juvenile Justice](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-supreme-court-will-address-how-to-reduce-racial-disparities-reform-juvenile-justice/) - The WA Supreme Court will soon be advised of reducing and, where possible, eliminating racial disparities in Washington’s criminal and juvenile justice systems.
- [Pandemic Crisis Created a Blueprint to Courts in the Future](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/pandemic-crisis-created-a-blueprint-to-courts-in-the-future/) - Washington courts proved during the pandemic they can adapt quickly to new technologies and methods when the need is urgent.
- [2021 Crime Report: Violent Crime Up as Washington State Sees Decrease in Police Officers](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/2021-crime-report-violent-crime-up-as-washington-state-sees-decrease-in-police-officers/) - Violent crime, including murder and assault, increased by more than 12% in 2021 while the number of police officers decreased 4.4%, according to a 2021 report.
- [Extraction of Smartphone Data by U.S. Law Enforcement](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/extraction-of-smartphone-data-by-u-s-law-enforcement/) - Every day, thousands of smartphones are searched by police across the US without a warrant and in violation of Constitional rights.
- [Racial Disparities in Sentencing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/racial-disparities-in-sentencing/) - A report from The Sentencing Project and ACLU submitted to the United Nations details the impact of racial disparities in criminal sentencing and imprisonment.
- [High Court Reverses Conviction Due to Juror's Racial Biases At Jury Selection](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-court-of-appeals-reverses-conviction-due-to-jurors-racial-biases-at-jury-selection/) - WA Court of Appeals reversed a defendant's conviction because a juror's inquiries on the defendant's immigration status demonstrated ethnic bias.
- [Display of a Firearm & Probable Cause](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/display-of-a-firearm-probable-cause/) - The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals held that a defendant's charges for Unlawful Display of a Weapon were not supported by Probable Cause.
- [Traffic Deaths Increase](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/traffic-deaths-increase/) - A surge in traffic deaths that began in the andemic shows no signs of stopping with more than 9,500 people killed in the first three months of this year.
- [Right to Counsel At Critical Stages In Criminal Proceedings](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/right-to-counsel-at-critical-stages-in-criminal-proceedings/) - High Court says that even if a defendant lacks counsel at arraignment, this error is harmless because setting bail has no effect on the remainder of the case.
- [The Increase in Gun Violence Appears To Be The "New Normal"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/the-increase-in-gun-violence-appears-to-be-new-normal/) - Firearm shootings, violence and death spiked during the Covid-19 Pandemic, and this appears to be the "new normal."
- [Rainbow Fentanyl](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/rainbow-fentanyl/) - The DEA is advising the public of an alarming emerging trend of colorful fentanyl available across the United States.
- [America's Shortage of Criminal Defense Attorneys](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/americas-shortage-of-criminal-defense-attorneys/) - America’s public defenders are overworked and underfunded. The situation has reached crisis levels in some states. The problem is systemic.
- [When Rap Lyrics Are Used Against You In Court.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/when-rap-lyrics-are-used-against-you-in-court/) - Legislation introduced by California Representative Reggie Jones-Sawyercould soon limit the admissibility of rap lyric evidence at trial.
- [Why Aren't Collector License Plate Infractions Enforced?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/whay-arent-collector-license-plate-laws-prioritized-or-enforced/) - Why don't police strictly enforce Collector License Plate infractions? Is this a no-priority enforcement? Doug Dahl of Targe Zero answers the questions.
- [Crime Lab Delays Get Criminal Conviction Reversed & Case Dismissed.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/crime-lab-delays-get-criminal-conviction-reversed-case-dismissed/) - High Court reversed the defendant's criminal convictions because the trial court wrongully granted continuances solely based on routine crime lab delays.
- [Can Community Court Work in Whatcom County?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/can-community-court-work-in-whatcom-county/) - Can Community Court become a viable service in Whatcom County in the wake of the COVID-19 Pandemic, an aging jail, understaffed police and rising crime?
- [President Biden Pardons Those With Federal Convictions for Possessing Marijuana](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/president-biden-pardons-those-with-federal-convictions-for-possessing-marijuana/) - President Joe Biden has pardoned people with federal convictions for simple possession of marijuana. This is a historic move that could help thousands.
- [Mental Health & High-Potency Cannabis](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/mental-health-high-potency-cannabis/) - Scientists point to emerging evidence from studies that link high-potency THC to an increased risk of developing and experiencing psychosis at an earl age.
- [Mutually Violating No-Contact Orders With Protected Parties](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/mutually-violating-no-contact-orders-with-protected-parties/) - Washington's second-degree burglary statute does not require a “nexus” between the unlawful entry and the crime the defendant intends to commit in the building.
- [Indigenous Prisoners in Walla Walla Gather for Pow wow](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/indigenous-prisoners-in-walla-walla-gather-for-pow-wow/) - Native American prisoners at the State Penitentiary hosted their first powwow in three years, a 50-year tradition temporarily halted by the Covid-19 Pandemic.
- [Prosecutor's Filing Delay Held Unconstitutional](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/prosecutors-filing-delay-held-unconstitutional/) - The defendant’s murder conviction was reversed and dismissed because the State’s preaccusatorial filing delay violated the defendant’s due process rights.
- [Prosecutor's Use of Term "Mexican Ounce" At Trial Was Race-Based Misconduct](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/prosecutors-saying-mexican-ounce-at-trial-was-misconduct-leading-to-conviction-getting-reversed/) - Court of Appeals reversed a drug conviction because the prosecutor's use of the term “Mexican ounce” invoked stereotypes of Mexican drug-dealing and dishonesty.
- ["Solicitation" Requires Monetary Value](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/solicitation-requires-monetary-value/) - The defendant’s promise to her son that they would be “together forever” after the son poisoned his father to death was not a solicitation based monetary value.
- [Alcohol Detection Systems in All New Vehicles?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/alcohol-detection-systems-in-all-new-vehicles/) - The NTSB now recommends all new vehicles have systems that would prevent or limit vehicle operation if they detect driver impairment by alcohol.
- [Mentally Ill Are Decompensating in Washington Jails](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/mentally-ill-are-decompensating-in-washington-jails/) - A record number of people with mental illness are waiting in Washington jails for court-ordered treatment. Research shows this causes their illnesses to worsen.
- [Trial Strategy: The Lesser-Included Jury Instruction](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/trial-strategy-the-lesser-included-jury-instruction/) - Defense Counsel provided effective assistance when he pursued an “all-or-nothing” strategy at trial and declined to seek a lesser included jury instruction.
- [At Trial, Police Can't Comment on a Defendant's Post-Arrest Silence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/at-trial-police-cant-comment-on-a-defendants-post-arrest-silence/) - WA Court of Appeals held the defendant’s right against self-incrimination was violated when the detective commented about the defendant’s post-arrest silence.
- [Eliminate Unnecessary Traffic Stops](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/eliminate-unnecessary-traffic-stops/) - Too often, traffic stops turn lethal. We must limit minor traffic stops, eliminate incentives for ticketing revenue and teach drivers about policing protocols.
- [Conviction Reversed Because Prosecutor Failed to Give Race-Neutral Reasons for Striking Jurors.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/conviction-reversed-because-prosecutor-failed-to-give-race-neutral-reasons-for-striking-jurors/) - WA Supreme Court reversed a sex offense conviction under GR 37 because the prosecutor failed to give race-neutral reasons for striking two minority jurors.
- ["Focused Deterrence" - The New Approach to Reducing Crime](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/focused-deterrence-the-new-approach-to-reducing-crime/) - Evidence-based strategies like ‘focused deterrence’ don’t conform to partisan politics, but they have been shown to work.
- [New Law Allows Police to Use Street Racing Videos to Track Down Violators](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-law-allows-police-to-use-street-racing-videos-to-track-down-violators/) - Florida passed a new law allowing street racing videos to be used as evidence to track down violators. Similar laws may pass in other states, including WA.
- [Locked Out 2022: Estimates of People Denied Voting Rights](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/locked-out-2022-estimates-of-people-denied-voting-rights/) - Millions of Americans are barred from voting due to a felony conviction. In Washington, voting rights restored automatically upon completion of prison.
- [Hands Are Not An "Instrument or Thing" Used to Prove Assault Third Degree](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/hands-are-not-an-instrument-or-thing-used-to-prove-assault-third-degree/) - Conviction for Assault Third Degree reversedbecause there was no evidence that the defendant used anything other than his hands to assault the victim.
- [2023 Legislation Aimed at Restricting Firearms](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/2023-legislation-aimed-at-restricting-firearms/) - In 2023, state lawmakers will propose more legislation placing restrictions on guns in Washington to ban assault rifles and hold gun manufacturers accountable.
- [Federal Prisoners Punished for Using Their Prescribed Medications](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/federal-prisoners-punished-for-using-their-prescribed-medications/) - Federal prisoners suffer dire consequences for accessing addiction medication treatment that Congress has instructed prisons to provide.
- [Harming a Police Dog](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/harming-a-police-dog/) - For purposes of the Harming a Police Dog statute, “maliciously” means “an evil intent, wish, or design to vex, annoy, or injure” a police dog.
- [DOJ Ends Crack Cocaine Sentencing Disparities](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/doj-ends-crack-cocaine-sentencing-disparities/) - The Department of Justice (DOJ) has moved to end sentencing differences between crack and powder cocaine offenders to address racial disparities in the law.
- [FBI's Hate Crime Statistics in Whatcom County](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/fbis-hate-crime-statistics-in-whatcom-county/) - A recent FBI report contains data on Hate Crimes, including those in Whatcom County, which included incidents from 2021 reported by numerous police agencies.
- [Fentanyl's Path to the United States](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/fentanyls-path-to-the-united-states/) - Beijing has stopped cooperating in restricting the flow of Chinese-made chemicals that Mexican cartels use to make Fentanyl.
- [Should Prison Inmates Get Minimum Wage for Prison Jobs?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/should-prison-inmates-get-minimum-wage-for-prison-jobs/) - State Legislator Tarra Simmons wants to pay inmates minimum wage for prison jobs. The Current pay for prisoners ranges from 65 cents to $2.70 an hour.
- [Increased DUI Patrols in Whatcom this New Year's Weekend](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/increased-dui-patrols-in-whatcom-this-new-years-weekend/) - Bellingham, Everson and Ferndale police and the Whatcom County Sheriffs Office will increase the number of patrols through New Year's Weekend.
- [Sentencing Enhancements For Dealing Drugs Near School Zones](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/sentencing-enhancements-for-dealing-drugs-near-school-zones/) - Blake does not invalidate sentencing enhancements for dealing drugs near school bus stops just because a drug dealer doesn't know they are close to such a stop.
- [Cross-Racial Identification](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/cross-racial-identification/) - WA Supreme Court upheld a defendant's assault conviction because there was no evidence supporting a jury instruction for false cross-racial identification.
- [Power Grid Attacks Increasing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/power-grid-attacks-increasing/) - Attacks on power substations across the nation are growing. Five states in the Pacific Northwest and Southeast reveal similar incidents of attacks.
- [WA Supreme Court on Accessing Justice During the Pandemic: "Our Work Isn't Done."](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-supreme-court-on-access-to-justice-during-the-pandemic-our-work-isnt-done/) - WA Supreme Couirt Chief Justice Steven C. González says the COVID-19 Pandemic adaptations improved access to justice, but “our work isn’t done.”
- [Washington is the Second-Worst State to Drive](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-is-the-second-worst-u-s-state-to-drive-in/) - Washington State is one of the worst states in the U.S. to drive in, according to a report from WalletHub. Washington state landed second from last on the list.
- [Proposed Bills Seek to Change Washington's Police Pursuit Law](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/proposed-bills-seek-to-change-washingtons-police-pursuit-law/) - Lawmakers will soon be considering proposals - HB 1053, SB 5352, and HB1363 - to change Washington state's law that restricts police pursuits.
- [Traffic Fatalities Reach High in 2022](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/traffic-fatalities-reach-high-in-2022/) - Initial data for 2022 shows the greatest number of deaths on Washington roads and highways since 1990. Reports show 745 people were killed in crashes last year.
- ["Cold-Hearted"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/cold-hearted/) - A recorded police interrogation - where the detective referred to the defendant as being "cold-hearted" - was improperly admitted opinion testimony at trial.
- [High Court Decides Barring People With DV Restraining Orders From Having Guns Is Unconstitutional](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/high-court-decides-barring-people-with-dv-restraining-orders-from-having-guns-is-unconstitutional/) - The 5th Circuit federal court held unconstitutional a federal law prohibiting people subject to domestic violence restraining orders from possessing firearms.
- [Self-Harming Juror Removed From Deliberations](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/self-harming-juror-removed-from-deliberations/) - WA Supreme Court held that it was proper for a trial judge to dismiss a frustrated juror who engaged in self-harm during deliberations.
- [Legislature Considers Banning At-Home Sexual Assault Evidence Kits](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legislature-considers-banning-at-home-sexual-assault-evidence-kits/) - Washington lawmakers are considering House Bill 1564, a bipartisan bill that would prohibit the sale of over-the-counter sexual assault kits .
- [SB 5467 Proposes Drug Possession Charges As Dismissable Misdemeanors](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/sb-5467-proposes-drug-possession-charges-as-dismissable-misdemeanors/) - SB 5467 would make drug possession a misdemeanor and order completion of treatment to overturn the conviction and dismiss charges.
- ["Tranq": The Skin-Rotting Street Drug Infiltrating Big Cities](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tranq-the-skin-rotting-street-drug-infiltrating-big-cities/) - Xylazineis - otherwise known as "Tranq" - is wreaking havoc in major cities across the country with its devastating effects. It literally rots the user’s skin.
- [Jury Selection & Face Masks](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/jury-selection-face-masks/) - the WA Court of Appeals held that it does not violate a defendant's constitutional rights for jurors to wear face masks during jury selection.
- [Drug Abuse, Mental Health and Arrests](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/drug-abuse-mental-health-and-arrests/) - Adults reporting co-occurring serious or moderate mental illness and substance use disorders in the past year were far more likely to be arrested.
- [Justice Department Announces Application Form for Marijuana Pardon Certificates](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/justice-department-announces-application-form-for-marijuana-pardon-certificates/) - The DOJ launched an application for eligible individuals to receive certificate of proof that they were pardoned underproclamation by President Biden.
- [A Trial Court's COVID-19 Protocols Are "Trial Management Decisions."](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/a-trial-courts-covid-19-protocols-are-trial-management-decisions/) - COVID-19 protocols are trial management decisions. The use of masks, partitions, and social distancing did not violate the defendant's rights at trial.
- [WA Senate Passes Bill to Change Police Pursuit Law](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-senate-passes-bill-to-change-police-pursuit-law/) - Senate Bill 5352 is new legislation giving police greater ability to pursue people in vehicles has narrowly passed the Senate in Washington State.
- [Bellingham City Council Rejects Proposal to Ban Public Drug Use](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellingham-city-council-rejects-proposal-to-ban-public-drug-use-2/) - The Bellingham City Council rejected a proposal to ban public drug use, citing a lack of diversion resources for offenders
- [Over 29,100 Years 'Lost' In Prison Due To Wrongful Convictions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/over-29100-years-lost-in-prison-in-wrongful-convictions/) - There have been at least 3,287 exonerations. More than 29,100 years have been “lost” in prison due to “wrongful convictions” that have been uncovered thus far.
- [Finally, A New Jail in Whatcom County?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/finally-a-new-jail-in-whatcom-county/) - Whatcom County is attempting to build a new jail in lieu of increased crime, homelessness, mental illness and substance use disorders.
- [DOJ Wants Review of DV Firearms Ruling](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/doj-wants-review-of-dv-firearms-ruling/) - The Justice Department has petitioned the Supreme Court to overturn the 5th Circuit's decision allowing individuals charged DVcrimes to possess firearms.
- [Washington State Patrol Sees Increase in Drive-By Shootings](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-state-patrol-sees-increase-in-drive-by-shootings/) - An alarming trend of shootings are unfolding on our freeways. Washington State Patrol says about a dozen drive-by shootings have happened this year alone.
- [Bellingham City Council Adopts Proposal to Ban Public Drug Use.](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellingham-city-council-adopts-proposal-to-ban-public-drug-use/) - In an abrupt change of course, a split Bellingham City Council approved an ordinance that bans illegal drug use in public.
- ["Victim Penalty Assessment" Court Fine Held As Constitutional](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/victim-penalty-assessment-court-fine-held-as-constitutional/) - A mandatory $500 victim penalty assessment is still not an excessive fine under the Eighth Amendment, even if it might be partially punitive.
- [April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/april-is-distracted-driving-awareness-month/) - A recent report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) says that Distracted Driving has become a deadly epidemic on our roads.
- [Some Federal Inmates May Stay Home After COVID Emergency Lifts](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/some-federal-inmates-may-stay-home-after-covid-emergency-lifts/) - Federal inmates who were allowed to serve their prison terms at home during the COVID-19 pandemic will be able to remain at home.
- [Hotel Room Hosts Can't Consent To Police Searching Other Guest's Bags](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/a-third-partys-consent-allowing-police-to-search-anothers-belongings-is-held-unconstitutional/) - A motel room's host lacks authority to consent to a search of a guest’s grocery bags in the room. Bags are traditional repositories of personal belongings.
- [New Bill Strengthens Prosecution of Hate Crimes](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-bill-strengthens-prosecution-of-hate-crimes/) - A bill passed in Washington is expanding the state’s definition of a hate crime and strengthens the ability to prosecute those crimes.
- [State Lawmakers Approve Police Pursuits](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/state-lawmakers-approve-police-pursuits/) - Senate Bill 5352 lowers the requirements for police pursuits passed the Washington state Senate on Monday. The bill now heads to Governor Jay Inslee’s desk.
- [House of Representatives Fails to Pass Drug Possession Legislation](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/house-of-representatives-fails-to-pass-drug-possession-legislation/) - the House of Representatives rejected a bill that would have made the possession and use of hard drugs a gross misdemeanor.
- [Governor Inslee Signs Legislation Aimed at Preventing Gun Violence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/governor-inslee-signs-legislation-aimed-at-preventing-gun-violence/) - Governor Jay Inslee signed three bills into law aimed at preventing gun violence in Washington state. One of the bills bans assault-style weapons.
- [Federal Prisons Want Inmates to Pay Victims](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/federal-prisons-want-inmates-to-pay-victims/) - The Bureau of Prisons is considering a rule change requiring inmates to pay their victims before being allowed to make phone calls or purchase other jail items.
- [Governor Inslee Signs Police Pursuit Bill](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/governor-inslee-signs-police-pursuit-bill/) - A new bill Gov. Jay Inslee just signed changes when law enforcement can chase criminals. Police don’t need probable cause – just reasonable suspicion.
- [WA State Patrol Uses Helicopters to Pursue Fleeing Suspects](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-state-patrol-uses-helicopters-to-pursue-fleeing-suspects/) - The WA State Patrol is deploying "aviation tactics" to respond to increased incidents of street racing. Helicopters shall now pursue suspect vehicles.
- [Skagit County's Drug Task Force May Lose Funding](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/skagit-countys-drug-task-force-may-lose-funding/) - the WA Commerce Department may stop giving financial assistance to Skagit County Drug Task Force, putting the future of this unit at risk.
- [Why Retail Is Focused on Organized Crime](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/why-retail-is-focused-on-organized-crime/) - Large retail stores seeing an increase in organized retail theft are lobbying for the passge of the Combatting Organized Retail Crime Act,
- [Bellingham Retail Stores Beef Up Security in Response to Rising Crime](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellingham-retail-stores-beef-up-security-in-response-to-rising-crime/) - Bellingham retail stores are increasing security to a broader citywide crime wave that hit Bellingham in the latter stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- [Lock Your Pet In Your Car?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/lock-your-pet-in-your-car/) - Don't leave your dog in the car on a hot day. You can face civil and/or criminal charges, including Animal Cruelty.
- [Public Discussion of New Jail in Whatcom County](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/public-discussion-of-new-jail-in-whatcom-county/) - The public is beginning to discuss the possible cost, location, design and scope of a new Whatcom County jail facility. The current jail is too small
- [Police Departments Relaxing Recruitment Qualifications](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/police-departments-relaxing-recruitment-qualifications/) - Police departments nationwide are struggling to recruit new officers, especially as more agencies have reported upticks in resignations and retirements.
- [Washington State Ranked 23rd In The Nation For Drug Use](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-state-ranked-23rd-in-the-nation-for-drug-use/) - A recent study ranked Washington state at No. 23 in the nation for drug use despite having among the highest percentage of adult drug users in the country.
- [Drivers Can't Consent to Police Searching a Passenger's Belongings](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/drivers-cant-consent-to-police-searching-a-passengers-belongings/) - A driver’s consent to search their car does not extend to searching the contents of closed containers inside the car that do not belong to the driver.
- [WA Courts Reimburse Defendants For Fines & Costs Associated With Drug Convictions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-courts-reimburse-defendants-for-fines-costs-associated-with-drug-convictions/) - WA Courts will reimburse defendants for fines or costs paid in connection with drug possession convictions later found unconstitutional under State v. Blake.
- [New "Blake Fix" Drug Possession Law Takes Effect July 1, 2023](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-blake-fix-drug-possession-law-takes-effect-july-1-2023/) - SB 5536, the so-called “Blake Fix,” is now in effect. Both possession and use of a prohibited substance in a public place are gross misdemeanors.
- [Speed Cameras In Demand As Fatal Crashes Rise in WA State](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/speed-cameras-in-demand-as-fatal-crashes-rise/) - Gov. Jay Inslee called for more speed cameras as traffic fatalities in Washington state increased about 39% from 538 in 2019 to 750 in 2022.
- [U.S. Supreme Court Addresses "True Threats"](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/u-s-supreme-court-addresses-true-threats/) - In order to constitute a “true threat,” the defendant must have some subjective understanding of the threatening nature of his or her statements.
- [Politicians Want Crackdowns on Drug Dealers](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/politicians-want-crackdowns-on-drug-dealers/) - A growing coalition of U.S. politicians wanting tougher police tactics used against gangs now selling fentanyl, methamphetamines and xylazine.
- [Washington's 2022 Crime Report: Homicides Are Up, Police Staffing is Down](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washingtons-2022-crime-report-homicides-are-up-police-staffing-is-down/) - Homicides reached an all-time high in 2022 and violent crime rose in Washington state while law enforcement staffing continue to nosedive.
- [Cathinone: The Newest Drug to Hit Streets & Nightclubs](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/cathinone-the-newest-drug-to-hit-streets-nightclubs/) - The Drug Enforcement Administration is issuing a warning about Cathinone, the latest drug that has made its way to Northeast Florida streets.
- [Alcohol-Related Deaths Increased Amid a Spike in Pandemic Drinking](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/alcohol-related-deaths-increased-amid-a-spike-in-pandemic-drinking/) - Federal data reveals U.S. consumption of alcohol accelerated during the COVID-19 Pandemic as Americans grappled with stress and isolation.
- [Whatcom Sheriff's Office & Jail Flooded by Inmate](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/whatcom-sheriffs-office-jail-flooded-by-inmate/) - the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Offices and Jail was flooded by a sprinkler head that was tampered with by an inmate. The flooding caused over $5,000 in damages.
- [Remote Jury Selection](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/remote-jury-selection/) - In State v. Wade, the WA Court of Appeals held that Remote Jury Selection does not violate the right to a jury drawn from a fair cross-section of the community.
- [How To Handle False Allegations of Sexual Assault](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/how-to-handle-false-allegations-of-sexual-assault/) - False accusations of sexual assault are traumatic and frightening. Stay informed in order to move forward without fear or shame.
- [Bellingham Crime Rates - 2022 & 2023 Thus Far](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellingham-crime-rates-2022-2023-thus-far/) - Crime data from the City of Bellingham Police Department shows that Bellingham is a relatively safe city compared to the national average.
- [WA Supreme Court Strikes Down Racial Discrimination in Jury Selection](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/wa-supreme-court-strikes-down-racial-discrimination-in-jury-selection/) - WA Supreme Court overturned a 65-year-old Black man’s conviction nearly two decades after he alleged racial discrimination during his jury selection.
- [Why Seahawks' Geno Smith Won't Be Charged For DUI Or Reckless Driving](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/why-seahawks-geno-smith-wont-be-charged-for-dui/) - Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith will not be charged in connection with his 2022 arrest on suspicion of DUI or Reckless Driving.
- [Blake Refund Bureau Launches to Assist with Refunds of Court Fines](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/blake-refund-bureau-launches-to-assist-with-refunds-of-court-fines/) - Washington just launched it's online reimbursement center for court-ordered fines or costs paid in connection with dismissed drug possession convictions.
- [Federal Court Strikes Hawaii Statutue Outlawing Butterfly Knives](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/butterfly-knives-are-legal/) - 9th Circuit Court of Appeals held that Hawaii's criminal statute prohibiting possession of butterfly knives violates the second amendment.
- [Mississippi's Lifetime Voting Ban on Felons Held Unconstitutional](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/mississippi-lifetime-voting-ban-struck-down/) - 5th Circuit Federal Court of Appeals ruled Mississippi’s lifetime voting ban for those convicted of certain felonies is unconstitutional.
- [U.S. Supreme Court Revives Biden’s Regulation of ‘Ghost Guns’](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/u-s-supreme-court-revives-bidens-regulation-of-ghost-guns/) - The Supreme Court revived the Biden administration’s regulation of “ghost guns” — kits that are bought online and assembled into untraceable homemade firearms.
- [UW Study Uncovers Acts of Violence Against Federal Detainees](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/uw-study-uncovers-acts-of-violence-against-federal-detainees/) - A new report documents the use of pepper spray and physical force used against immigrants detained at the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma.
- [Alcohol vs. Cannabis vs. Tobacco: What's the Worst?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/alcohol-vs-cannabis-vs-tobacco-whats-the-worst/) - Medical professionals discuss what substances harm health the worst: alcohol, tobacco or marijuana? All agreed that marijuana was the least harmful.
- [Bellingham Considers "Open Carry" Ban](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/bellingham-considers-open-carry-ban/) - Bellingham is considering a ban on firearms, except for people who are licensed to carry a concealed pistol, at City Hall and at sports facilities.
- [Organized Retail Theft On the Rise](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/organized-retail-theft-on-the-rise/) - Two major chains reported Tuesday that their earnings are suffering from consumers not paying, either by Theft or refusing to pay delinquent credit balances.
- [Can You Drink Alcohol in the Car as a Passenger?](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/can-you-drink-alcohol-in-the-car-as-a-passenger/) - What if you’re a passenger found drinking alcohol in a car, but your driver has not had a drop? How can you expect police to react? Here’s what the law says.
- [Labor Day DUI Patrols In Effect](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/labor-day-dui-patrols-in-effect/) - This Labor Day Weekend, police are actively patrolling looking for impaired drivers. As of yesterday, the WSP has responded to 70 crashes and 16 calls.
- [Traffic-Related Deaths Are on the Rise](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/traffic-related-deaths-are-on-the-rise/) - Studies show that Washington's worsening traffic safety crisis is leading to more deaths at this point in 2023 than the year before.
- [Walmart Begins Adding Police Sub-Stations](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/walmart-begins-adding-police-sub-stations/) - A Walmart store in Atlanta will reopen with a pharmacy, grocery store, and police station to help combat crime and better serve the neighborhood.
- [Forensic Genetic Genealogy Is Admissible Evidence At Trial](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/forensic-genetic-genealogy-is-admissible-evidence-at-trial/) - A defendant cannot suppress evidence of (1) bodily fluids that he abandons at a crime scene or (2) familial DNA evidence uploaded to a public database.
- ["I'm On The Fence . . ."](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/im-on-the-fence/) - A juror who says, "I'm on the fence" during jury selection should be excused. If the juror is “on the fence” then the Prosecutor has not carried its burden.
- [Public Safety Beyond Extreme Sentencing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/public-safety-beyond-extreme-sentencing/) - A recent report explores five social interventions that can improve public safety in the United States without increasing the reliance on mass incarceration.
- [National Public Defense Workload Study](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/national-public-defense-workload-study/) - A national study says that public defenders' caseloads are too heavy and are no longer working leading to an exodus from the profession.
- [It's Time To Apply New & Better Standards for Public Defense Workloads](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/its-time-to-apply-new-better-standards-for-public-defense-workloads/) - The Council on Public Defense (CPD) shall examine how new research about public-defense caseloads should be applied to Washington’s criminal courts.
- [Let's Not Forget - There's Actually Less Crime](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/lets-not-forget-theres-actually-less-crime/) - The shrinking criminal justice footprint is rarely acknowledged or discussed, leaving everyday Americans to conclude that nothing is improving.
- [AI Facial Recognition Tech Leads to Mistaken Identity Arrests](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/ai-facial-recognition-tech-leads-to-mistaken-identity-arrests/) - Facial recognition technology is under scrutiny as experts warn about AI’s tendency toward errors, bias and mistaken identity.
- [New Study Recommends Police Pursuits be Limited to Violent Crimes](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/new-study-recommends-police-pursuits-be-limited-to-violent-crimes/) - According to a new study, police pursuits should be rare and limited to violent criminals who pose an imminent threat to public safety.
- [Washington State Prison System Sued for Using Unreliable Drug Tests On Prison Mail](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/washington-state-prison-system-sued-for-using-unreliable-drug-tests-on-prison-mail/) - The WA Department of Corrections is facing a lawsuit over its use of inaccurate drug field tests to throw incarcerated people in solitary confinement.

## Pages

- [Home Page - Experienced Criminal Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/) - Experienced criminal defense attorney Alexander F. Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor defense in Whatcom County, Skagit County and surrounding cities and towns. He specializes in DUI/DWI and all Alcohol Related Driving Charges, Domestic Violence, Drug Offenses, Violent Crimes, Sex Offenses, Property Crimes, Robbery, Burglary, Firearm Crimes, Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangerment, Minor in Possession, Disorderly Conduct,
- [Verdicts & Results](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/verdicts-and-results/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Mount Vernon, Skagit County and surrounding cities.
- [Self-Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/self-defense/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Search & Seizure: Basic Issues Regarding Their Search For Weapons, Drugs, Firearms and Other Contraband](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/search-seizure-basic-issues-regarding-their-search-for-weapons/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Arguing Motions to Compel Pretrial Discovery](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/arguing-motions-to-compel-pretrial-discovery/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Sex Offenses](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/sex-offenses/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Contact](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/contact/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [About Alex](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/about-alex/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Negligent Driving](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/negligent-driving/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Rendering Criminal Assistance](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/rendering-criminal-assistance/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Making Bail](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/making-bail/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Persuading Judges to Admit Collateral Evidence Outside the Immediate Facts of the Case](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/persuading-judges-to-admit-collateral-evidence-outside-the-immediate-facts-of-the-case/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Getting Cases Dismissed Via Stipulated Order of Continuance](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/getting-cases-dismissed-via-stipulated-order-of-continuance/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Bail & Bond Proceedings](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/bail-bond-proceedings/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Site Map](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/site-map/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices DUI, felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County and surrounding cities and towns.
- [Statute of Limitations](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/statute-of-limitations/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Vacating a Prior Criminal Conviction](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/vacating-a-prior-criminal-conviction/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Prosecutorial Misconduct: The Rules, The Issues & The Remedies](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/prosecutorial-misconduct-the-rules/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Alcohol DUI’s: The Basic Issues](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/alcohol-duis-the-basic-issues/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Hailey's Law](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/haileys-law/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [What Happens After They Charge Me? Criminal Procedure In A Nutshell](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/what-happens-after-they-charge-me-criminal-procedure-in-a-nutshell/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Vehicle Impounds: The Reasons, the Rules and (Hopefully) the Release](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/vehicle-impounds-the-reasons/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Drug DUI’s in Washington: The Issues & Recent Case law](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/drug-duis-in-washington-the-issues-recent-case-law/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Quash Your Bench Warrant](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/quash-your-bench-warrant/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Subpoena Duces Tecum: Getting More Evidence To Support Your Theory](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/subpoena-duces-tecum-getting-more-evidence-to-support-your-case-theory/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Dismissing Cases Through Knapstad Motions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/dismissing-cases-through-knapstad-motions/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Possession & Theft of Stolen Motor Vehicle](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/possession-theft-of-stolen-motor-vehicle/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Dismissing Property Cases: The Compromise of Misdemeanor](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/dismissing-property-cases-the-compromise-of-misdemeanor/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Defending Against Domestic Violence Charges](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/defending-against-domestic-violence-charges/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Legal Guides](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/legal-guides/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Vehicular Homicide/Assault](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/vehicular-homicide-vehicular-assault/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Vacating Criminal Charges](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/vacating-criminal-charges/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Trafficking In Stolen Property](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/trafficking-in-stolen-property/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Theft](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/theft/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Tampering With a Witness & Intimidation of Witnesses](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/tampering-with-a-witness-intimidation-of-witnesses/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Stalking](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/stalking/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Robbery](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/robbery/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Resisting Arrest](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/resisting-arrest/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Reckless Endangerment](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/reckless-endangerment/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Reckless Driving](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/reckless-driving/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Burglary](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/burglary/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Assault](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/assault/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Arson](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/arson/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Prostitution](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/prostitution/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Possession of Stolen Property](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/possession-of-stolen-property/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Obstructing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/obstructing/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [No-Contact Order Violations](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/no-contact-order-violations/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Malicious Mischief](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/malicious-mischief/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Kidnapping & Unlawful Imprisonment](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/kidnapping-unlawful-imprisonment/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Identity Theft](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/identity-theft/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Hunting & Gaming](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/hunting-gaming/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Hit & Run](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/hit-run/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Homicide & Manslaughter](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/homicide-manslaughter/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Harassment](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/harassment/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Forgery](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/forgery/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Firearms](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/firearms/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Eluding](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/eluding/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Minor DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/dui/minor-dui/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Physical Control DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/dui/physical-control-dui/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities and towns.
- [Felony DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/dui/felony-dui/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Alcohol DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/dui/alcohol-dui/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Drug-DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/dui/drug-dui/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/dui/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Drug Charges (Delivery & Possession)](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/drug-charges-delivery-possession/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Domestic Violence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/domestic-violence/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Drive-By Shooting](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/drive-by-shooting/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Defending Respondents in Anti-Harassment Actions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/defending-respondents-in-anti-harassment-actions/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Cyberstalking](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/cyberstalking/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Custodial Assault](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/custodial-assault/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Criminal Trespass](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/criminal-trespass/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Bail Jumping](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/bail-jumping/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Practice Areas](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/practice-areas/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.
- [Resources](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/resources/) - Attorney Alexander Ransom practices felony and misdemeanor criminal defense in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Skagit County, Mount Vernon and surrounding cities.

## Categories

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- [Polygraph](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/polygraph/)
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- [Body camera](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/body-camera/)
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- [Cell Phone](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/cell-phone/)
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- [Ferrier Warnings](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/ferrier-warnings/)
- [Lesser Included Jury Instruction](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/lesser-included-jury-instruction/)
- [Reckless Endangerment](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/reckless-endangerment/)
- [Jury Selection](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/jury-selection/)
- [Miranda](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/miranda/)
- [Theft of Motor Vehicle](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/theft-of-motor-vehicle/)
- [National Highway Traffic Safety Administration](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/national-highway-traffic-safety-administration/)
- [Obstructing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/obstructing/)
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- [Text Messages](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/text-messages/)
- [Informant](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/informant/)
- [Technology](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/technology/)
- [Distracted Driving](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/distracted-driving/)
- ["Washout" Rule](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/washout-rule/)
- [Stingray Devices](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/stingray-devices/)
- [Intimidating a Witness](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/intimidating-a-witness/)
- [Common Authority Rule](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/common-authority-rule/)
- [Exclusionary Rule](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/exclusionary-rule/)
- [Making False Statements](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/making-false-statements/)
- [Malicious Mischief](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/malicious-mischief/)
- [Eighth Amendment](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/eighth-amendment/)
- [Strict Liability](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/strict-liability/)
- [Deferred Prosecution](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/deferred-prosecution/)
- [I-502](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/i-502/)
- [Freezing Bank Accounts](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/freezing-bank-accounts/)
- [42 U.S.C. § 1983](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/42-u-s-c-§-1983/)
- [Misidentification](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/misidentification/)
- [Qualified Immunity](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/qualified-immunity/)
- [9th Circuit Court of Appeals](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/9th-circuit-court-of-appeals/)
- [Prison](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/prison/)
- [Cyberstalking](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/cyberstalking/)
- [Implied Consent](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/implied-consent/)
- [Eluding](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/eluding/)
- [Drowsy Driving](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/drowsy-driving/)
- [Continuance](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/continuance/)
- [Substitution of Counsel](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/substitution-of-counsel/)
- [Police Dogs](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/police-dogs/)
- [Thirteenth Amendment](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/thirteenth-amendment/)
- [Bail](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/bail/)
- [Skagit County Criminal Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/skagit-county-criminal-defense/)
- [Legal Financial Obligations](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/legal-financial-obligations/)
- [Persistent Offender](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/persistent-offender/)
- [Compelled Speech Doctrine](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/compelled-speech-doctrine/)
- [Attenuation Doctrine](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/attenuation-doctrine/)
- [Inventory Searches](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/inventory-searches/)
- [Abandonment Doctrine](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/abandonment-doctrine/)
- [Washington Privacy Act](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/washington-privacy-act/)
- [Access Devices](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/access-devices/)
- [Joinder](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/joinder/)
- [Severance](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/severance/)
- [Deadly Force](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/deadly-force/)
- [Duty to Control](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/duty-to-control/)
- [Panhandling](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/panhandling/)
- [First Amendment](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/first-amendment/)
- ["Plain Meaning" Rule](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/plain-meaning-rule/)
- [I-873](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/i-873/)
- [Missing Witness Instruction](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/missing-witness-instruction/)
- [Computer Crimes](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/computer-crimes/)
- [Double Jeopardy](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/double-jeopardy/)
- [Confidential Informants](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/confidential-informants/)
- [Common Authority Searches](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/common-authority-searches/)
- ["Other Suspect" Evidence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/other-suspect-evidence/)
- [Protective Sweep](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/protective-sweep/)
- [Fifth Amendment](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/fifth-amendment/)
- [Hearsay](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/hearsay/)
- [Business Record](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/business-record/)
- [Pre-Arrest Silence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/pre-arrest-silence/)
- [Bounty Hunters](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/bounty-hunters/)
- [Brady v. Maryland](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/brady-v-maryland/)
- [RICO](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/rico/)
- [Strict Liability Offenses](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/strict-liability-offenses/)
- [Vehicular Homicide](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/vehicular-homicide/)
- [Vehicular Assault](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/vehicular-assault/)
- [Promoting Prostitution](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/promoting-prostitution/)
- [Nexus](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/nexus/)
- [Expert Testimony](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/expert-testimony/)
- [Alford Plea](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/alford-plea/)
- [Diminished Capacity](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/diminished-capacity/)
- [Trump Administration](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/trump-administration/)
- [Driving While License Suspended/Revoked](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/driving-while-license-suspendedrevoked/)
- [Drug House](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/drug-house/)
- [DEA](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/dea/)
- ["No-Impeachment" Rule](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/no-impeachment-rule/)
- [Harassment](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/harassment/)
- [Pretrial Release](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/pretrial-release/)
- [Interpreter](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/interpreter/)
- [Franks Hearing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/franks-hearing/)
- [Prostitution](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/prostitution/)
- [No Contact Order](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/no-contact-order/)
- [Tampering With a Witness](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/tampering-with-a-witness/)
- [Elder Abuse](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/elder-abuse/)
- [Criminal Mistreatment](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/criminal-mistreatment/)
- [Federal Crimes & Prosecutions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/federal-crimes-prosecutions/)
- [Opening the Door](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/opening-the-door/)
- [Provocation Rule](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/provocation-rule/)
- [Venue](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/venue/)
- [Pretrial Publicity](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/pretrial-publicity/)
- [Gunwall Analysis](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/gunwall-analysis/)
- [Shackled Defendants](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/shackled-defendants/)
- [Administrative Search Doctrine](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/administrative-search-doctrine/)
- [Pretext](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/pretext/)
- [Reasonable Suspicion](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/reasonable-suspicion/)
- [Juror Misconduct](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/juror-misconduct/)
- [Physical Control DUI](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/physical-control-dui/)
- [Resisting Arrest](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/resisting-arrest/)
- [Affidavit of Prejudice](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/affidavit-of-prejudice/)
- [Furtive Movements](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/furtive-movements/)
- [Recidivism](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/recidivism/)
- [Urinalysis](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/urinalysis/)
- [Fourth Amendment](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/fourth-amendment/)
- [Bitcoin](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/bitcoin/)
- [Dark Web](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/dark-web/)
- [Cyber Terrorism](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/cyber-terrorism/)
- [Opoids](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/opoids/)
- [Extortion](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/extortion/)
- [Child Abuse](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/child-abuse/)
- [Police Militarization](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/police-militarization/)
- [Solitary Confinement](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/solitary-confinement/)
- [Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE)](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/immigration-customs-enforcement-ice/)
- [Sanctuary Cities](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/sanctuary-cities/)
- [Gender](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/gender/)
- [ER 404(B)](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/er-404b/)
- [ER 405(B)](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/er-405b/)
- [Gangs](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/gangs/)
- [Toxicologist](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/toxicologist/)
- [Taser](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/taser/)
- [Defense of Property](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/defense-of-property/)
- [Statutory Interpretation](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/statutory-interpretation/)
- [Vehicle Prowl](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/vehicle-prowl/)
- [Vacating Convictions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/vacating-convictions/)
- [I-940](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/i-940/)
- [Silver Platter Doctrine](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/silver-platter-doctrine/)
- [Spousal Privilege](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/spousal-privilege/)
- [Child Molestation](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/child-molestation/)
- [Marital Privilege](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/marital-privilege/)
- [Witness Tampering](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/witness-tampering/)
- [Driving With Wheels Off Roadway](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/driving-with-wheels-off-roadway/)
- [Drive-By Shooting](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/drive-by-shooting/)
- [False Arrest](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/false-arrest/)
- [Forgery](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/forgery/)
- [Right to Present A Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/right-to-present-a-defense/)
- [ER 702](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/er-702/)
- [Perjury](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/perjury/)
- [Criminal Negligence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/criminal-negligence/)
- [Hobbs Act](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/hobbs-act/)
- [Stored Communications Act](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/stored-communications-act/)
- [Cell-Site Location Information (CSLI)](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/cell-site-location-information-csli/)
- [Opinion Testimony](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/opinion-testimony/)
- [ER 704](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/er-704/)
- [Motions In Limine](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/motions-in-limine/)
- [Disorderly Conduct](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/disorderly-conduct/)
- [Offer of Proof](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/offer-of-proof/)
- [Identity Theft](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/identity-theft/)
- [Civil Asset Forfeiture](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/civil-asset-forfeiture/)
- [Arson](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/arson/)
- [Criminal Justice](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/criminal-justice/)
- [Confrontation Clause](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/confrontation-clause/)
- [Fentanyl](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/fentanyl/)
- [Mount Vernon Criminal Defense Attorney](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/mount-vernon-criminal-defense-attorney/)
- [Open Carry](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/open-carry/)
- [Possession of Stolen Property](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/possession-of-stolen-property/)
- [Restitution](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/restitution/)
- [Necessity Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/necessity-defense/)
- [HOV Lane Violations](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/hov-lane-violations/)
- [State-Created Danger Doctrine](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/state-created-danger-doctrine/)
- [Jury Instructions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/jury-instructions/)
- [Sexsomnia](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/sexsomnia/)
- [Bail Jumping](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/bail-jumping/)
- [Swatting](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/swatting/)
- [Road Rage](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/road-rage/)
- [Coronavirus](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/coronavirus/)
- [Contempt of Court](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/contempt-of-court/)
- [Entrapment](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/entrapment/)
- [Money Laundering](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/money-laundering/)
- [Consecutive v. Concurrent Sentencing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/consecutive-v-concurrent-sentencing/)
- [Organized Retail Theft](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/organized-retail-theft/)
- [Excessive Fines Clause](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/excessive-fines-clause/)
- [ER 401](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/er-401/)
- [ER 402](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/er-402/)
- [ER 403](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/er-403/)
- [Hate Crimes](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/hate-crimes/)
- [Constructive Possession](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/constructive-possession/)
- [Biden Administration](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/biden-administration/)
- [Poverty Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/poverty-defense/)
- [Dangerous Weapon](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/dangerous-weapon/)
- [Deliberate Cruelty](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/deliberate-cruelty/)
- [Computer Fraud](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/computer-fraud/)
- [Operation Dry Water](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/operation-dry-water/)
- [LGBTQ](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/lgbtq/)
- [Domestic Terrorism](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/domestic-terrorism/)
- [Gas Theft](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/gas-theft/)
- [GR 37](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/gr-37/)
- [Community Court](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/community-court/)
- [Solicitation](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/solicitation/)
- [Mental Health](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/mental-health/)
- [Street Racing](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/street-racing/)
- [Harming a Police Dog](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/harming-a-police-dog/)
- [Peremptory Challenge](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/peremptory-challenge/)
- [Cross-Racial Identification](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/cross-racial-identification/)
- [Wrongful Convictions](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/wrongful-convictions/)
- [K-9 Police Dogs](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/k-9-police-dogs/)
- [Graffiti](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/graffiti/)
- [True Threats](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/true-threats/)
- [Stalking](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/stalking/)
- [Cathinone](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/cathinone/)
- [Remote Jury Selection](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/remote-jury-selection/)
- [Public Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/public-defense/)
- [Artificial Intelligence](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/artificial-intelligence/)
- [Indecent Exposure](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/indecent-exposure/)
- [Kratom](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/kratom/)
- [Political Signs](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/political-signs/)
- [Vulnerable Road User](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/vulnerable-road-user/)
- [Gun Buyback Program](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/gun-buyback-program/)
- [U-Visa](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/u-visa/)
- [Open Container](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/open-container/)
- [Conspiracy](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/conspiracy/)
- [Nitazene](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/nitazene/)
- [Bias](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/bias/)
- [Surveillance Creep](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/category/surveillance-creep/)

## Tags

- [Bellingham Criminal Defense Attorney](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tag/bellingham-criminal-defense-attorney/)
- [Mt. Vernon Criminal Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tag/mt-vernon-criminal-defense/)
- [Skagit County Criminal Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tag/skagit-county-criminal-defense/)
- [Whatcom County Criminal Defense Attorney](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tag/whatcom-county-criminal-defense-attorney/)
- [Mt. Vernon Criminal Defense Attorney](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tag/mt-vernon-criminal-defense-attorney/)
- [Skagit County Criminal Defense Attorney](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tag/skagit-county-criminal-defense-attorney/)
- [Dehydrated Driving](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tag/dehydrated-driving/)
- [Identity Theft](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tag/identity-theft/)
- [Forgery](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tag/forgery/)
- [Mount Vernon Criminal Defense Attorney](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tag/mount-vernon-criminal-defense-attorney/)
- [Mount Vernon Criminal Defense](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tag/mount-vernon-criminal-defense/)
- [mou](https://ransom-lawfirm.com/tag/mou/)