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SEATTLE CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Fighting for the Rights of the Accused for More than 25 Years
When you've been charged with a crime, you need to find out what your legal options are as soon as possible. You may be unsure of your legal options, but an experienced Seattle criminal defense attorney can help you fight for your rights. If you or a loved one have been accused of or arrested for a crime, trust your defense to Hale Law Enterprises.
With more than 25 years of experience, Attorney Matthew T. Hale has personally helped thousands of individuals successfully navigate the American justice system.
What Do We Bring to the Table?
- Decades of legal experience
- Personal attention to your case
- 24/7 availability by phone
- Experience handling high-profile cases
- Attorney Matthew T. Hale will personally handle your case
- Our firm has over 240 Five-Star Reviews on Google!
Contact our Seattle criminal defense attorney today at (206) 207-4776 to schedule a free consultation!
My name is Matthew Hale, and I am the founder of Hale Law Enterprises. I can help you in this difficult situation with the criminal courts.
Since 1997, I have successfully handled 1000s of criminal cases, most resulting in reductions, dismissals, or acquittals. I have practiced for 25 years in a hundred different courts, including many times in the same court in which you may be charged.
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No matter the severity or complexity of the charges you are facing, the Seattle criminal lawyer at our firm is prepared to help you fight for your future and your freedom. Whether you are dealing with DUI charges, reckless driving, cyber crimes, domestic violence, or even murder charges, Hale Law Enterprises can help you understand your various options and work towards the best possible outcome for your situation.
Finding the best criminal defense attorney can be a daunting task, but there are several factors to consider to help you find a skilled and experienced Seattle criminal defense attorney who will represent you effectively.
- Experience - Look for a lawyer with experience handling cases similar to yours. A seasoned criminal defense attorney will better understand the legal system and how to navigate it effectively.
- Reputation - A skilled criminal attorney will have a positive reputation. When looking for the best Seattle criminal defense lawyer, check online reviews and results or ask for referrals from friends or family members who have previously needed a criminal defense attorney.
- Schedule a free consultation - Once you've found an attorney you want to work with, schedule a free consultation to discuss your case. During this meeting, you can ask about their approach to criminal defense, experience with similar cases, and availability to handle your case.
- Talk Strategy - The best criminal defense lawyer for you will have a clear strategy for defending your case and should be able to explain their approach in a way you understand. They will have a solid plan and will work to achieve the best outcome for your unique situation.
Ultimately, finding the best criminal defense attorney for your case will depend on several factors. Take the time to do your research and find a lawyer who will provide you with the best possible representation.
Work Directly with an Attorney with A Track Record of Success
Hale Law Enterprises has successfully handled several of high-profile cases, providing exceptional representation for NBA athletes and executives at large Northwest companies. Attorney Hale personally handles every case the firm takes on and has a proven track record of getting criminal charges reduced and dropped.
Attorney Hale relies on his extensive educational background, thorough preparation, and attention to detail to aggressively fight for you.
Schedule your FREE initial consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney in Seattle.
What Does a Defense Attorney Do?
Criminal defense attorneys play an indispensable role in ensuring justice is served, and every person is entitled to a fair and robust defense. But what exactly does a defense attorney do? Below is the role a criminal defense attorney plays in the criminal justice system:
Legal Counsel and Advocate:
At the core of a defense attorney's role is the provision of legal counsel and advocacy. They are tasked with guiding their clients through the complexities of the legal system, explaining their rights, options, and the potential outcomes of their case. Defense attorneys serve as fierce advocates, representing their clients' interests throughout the legal process.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering:
Like seasoned detectives, defense attorneys investigate cases meticulously. They scrutinize the evidence presented by the prosecution, interview witnesses, and collaborate with experts if necessary. This diligent fact-finding helps build a strong defense strategy and uncover inconsistencies in the prosecution's case.
Case Analysis and Strategy:
Defense attorneys are master strategists. They analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution's case, identifying legal issues, technicalities, or arguments that may work in their clients' favor. They carefully plan their approach, adapting it to the unique circumstances of each case.
Negotiation and Plea Bargaining:
In many instances, defense attorneys engage in negotiations with the prosecution to reach plea bargains. This may involve reducing charges, securing lighter sentences, or finding alternative dispositions that minimize the consequences for their clients. They engage in these negotiations while upholding their clients' best interests.
Courtroom Representation:
The courtroom is where defense attorneys shine. They skillfully present their clients' case, cross-examine witnesses, and argue motions. Their legal knowledge, and ability to think on their feet are essential to challenging the prosecution's evidence and making persuasive legal arguments.
Jury Trials and Verdicts:
In cases that go to trial, defense attorneys select juries, present their clients' defense, and strive to secure a verdict of "not guilty." Their courtroom presence, use of evidence, and persuasive skills are crucial in determining the outcome of the case.
Sentencing Advocacy:
If a client is convicted, the defense attorney continues their work during the sentencing phase. They present mitigating factors, character references, and compelling arguments to influence the judge's sentencing decision, aiming for a fair and just outcome.
Appeals and Post-Conviction Relief:
When necessary, defense attorneys file appeals to challenge legal errors made during the trial or sentencing. They explore avenues for post-conviction relief, including issues related to ineffective assistance of counsel, newly discovered evidence, or constitutional violations.
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STATE OF WASHINGTON v. BH, FELONY THEFT 2King County Superior Court Felony Theft case dismissed on 4/19/23 before first pretrial.
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STATE OF WASHINGTON V. A.B. ASSAULT
King County Superior Court, January 2022 - Defendant charged with felony Assault 2, facing 9 months in jail. Case resolved with misdemeanor, no jail time.
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STATE OF WASHINGTON VS C.Q. DUI
King County District Court, December 2021 - Defendant charged with DUI, facing 364 days in jail. Case reduced to Negligent Driving, no jail time.
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STATE OF WASHINGTON VS. B.H. CYBER CRIMES
King County Superior Court, December 2021 - Defendant charged with 11 counts of Money Laundering, Theft, and Securities Fraud, facing 10 years in prison. Case resolved with plea to 3 counts and 1 misdemeanor, no jail time.
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STATE OF WASHINGTON VS. E.A. DUI
King County District Court, January 2022 - Defendant charged with DUI, facing 364 days in jail. Case reduced to negligent driving, no jail time.
ASSOCIATIONS
THOUSANDS OF CRIMINAL DEFENSE CASES HANDLED
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Theft
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Drug Crimes
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Reckless Driving
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Domestic Violence
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Firearms
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Murder
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Sex Crimes
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Vehicular Assault
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Assault
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DUI
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Cyber Crimes
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White Collar Crimes
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Real Testimonials
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“Everything was perfect. Thanks”
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Attorney Hale is trustworthy! Highly recommend him.
“Attorney Hale helped me with a complicated case recently. He was very easy to work with and I found him to be trustworthy. Attorney Hale was there to answer all my questions patiently whenever I contacted him. He helped to keep my record clean. I highly, recommend him.”
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“Matthew was great, excellent at answering any questions you have, overall very satisfied.”
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"One of the things I appreciated about Mr. Hale is his availability, always able to answer my questions timely."
“Mr. Hale was able to get my son's charges reduced and deferred! This was such a relief to us. One of the things I appreciated about Mr. Hale is his availability. He was always able to answer my questions timely. In fact, when I first called to consult with him, he answered his own phone! I thought it would be an answering service or someone from his office. Maybe it was just good timing, but I was able to explain my situation and from that moment through the entire case, he was a pleasure to work with. Calm, reassuring, professional and excellent at getting the best possible outcome for my son. I recommend him 100% without hesitation.”
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Matt Hale delivers!
“For a first-time DUI offender, having to deal with the charge and understanding the legal processes, procedures and repercussions was absolutely a nightmare for my friend who has never had a brush with the law. To get matters worse, his English language proficiency is limited making the legalese in the letters overwhelming. I helped my friend enlist the services of a DUI lawyer straight from the internet. I felt it was a long shot because many have equally good reviews but one never really knows until after the case is concluded, hence, the initial consult was crucial. For me, getting routed to answering machines many times indicates potential lawyer accessibility issues in the future. But with Hale Law Enterprises, I got a text and a call back quickly from Attorney Hale and in no time, my friend's crucial concerns were answered. Attorney Hale clearly laid out the way to go, gave a clear picture of the possible outcome, as well as the costs/fees. No surprises down the road. His firm grasp of the case in its entirety assuaged my friend’s fears, and thus he was able to get past the influx of debilitating fears and anxiety that came with the experience. That alone was already a win! Throughout the process, Attorney Hale was very patient in answering text messages and explaining details. He was very helpful in accessing resources for the case and in keeping the client abreast with the progress of the case as well as getting the best outcome for the client. With Attorney Hale’s expertise and experience, he adeptly guided my friend out of the DUI quagmire, successfully worked to reduce the charge to reckless driving, which exceeded our expectations. My friend was thankful and very happy with the results. Overall, our experience with Hale Law Enterprises was a positive one. Matt Hale delivers! Will recommend this seasoned lawyer.”
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Experienced & Aggressive Attorney
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High-Profile Cases Handled for Athletes & Executives
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Defending Good People Accused of DUI and All Other Crimes
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Thousands of Cases Successfully Handled
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Fighting to Defend the Rights of Thousands of People—Since 1998