Child Molestation Attorney in Seattle

Support, Guidance & Defense When Accused of Child Molestation

Being accused of child molestation in Seattle is overwhelming and life-altering. Every decision and interaction can feel high-stakes, and anxiety about what may come next can burden both you and your family. During this challenging period, it is essential to have a child molestation attorney who treats your case with personal attention and understands how these charges are prosecuted in Seattle courts.

I am Matthew T. Hale, a child molestation attorney Seattle residents have trusted for over 27 years. I offer direct, confidential support at every stage—never passing your case to someone else, and always ensuring you have a reliable advocate by your side. If you are facing allegations in Seattle, you do not have to face them alone. My commitment is to safeguard your privacy, explain your options, and provide honest guidance from our first conversation on.

Call (206) 207-4776 or fill out our online form to speak with a child molestation attorney in Seattle. We offer a free consultation to protect your rights in King County.

Understanding Child Molestation Laws in Washington (RCW 9A.44.083)

Washington law defines child molestation based on the type of conduct and the age of the victim. The crime is a serious felony, categorized under the state's Sentencing Reform Act, which often results in sentences much longer than for non-sex-related felonies.

The Two Degrees of the Offense

• Child Molestation in the First Degree (RCW 9A.44.083(1)): This is a Class A Felony, the most serious type of non-capital crime. It involves sexual contact with a person under the age of 12 by someone older than 18, or specific types of felony conduct with a person between the ages of 12 and 15.
  • Penalty: Punishable by life imprisonment and a fine of up to $\$50,000$.
• Child Molestation in the Second Degree (RCW 9A.44.083(2)): This is a Class B Felony. It covers sexual contact with a person who is under 15 years old by a person who is 18 years or older, or specific conduct with a victim between 15 and 18.
  • Penalty: Punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $\$20,000$.

The distinction between these two degrees, which is often tied to the victim's exact age and the type of contact, is crucial for any Seattle child molestation lawyer, as it drastically alters the sentencing range.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Child Molestation Conviction in Seattle

A conviction for child molestation in Washington triggers devastating, mandatory consequences that extend far beyond the prison term. Our firm fights relentlessly to ensure these lifelong burdens are never imposed.

Mandatory Direct Penalties

• Mandatory Minimum Sentencing: The sentence is determined by the Sentencing Reform Act (SRA), which uses a standard grid based on the crime severity and the defendant's criminal history. Sex offenses often carry exceptionally high base sentences, with little room for judicial discretion.
• Community Custody: Following release from prison, the defendant must serve a significant period (often lifelong) of Community Custody under strict supervision, including mandatory polygraph tests, curfews, and restrictions on contact with minors.
• Treatment and Evaluation: Mandatory court-ordered sex offender treatment and psychological evaluations are required both during incarceration and throughout community custody.

Collateral Consequences: Sex Offender Registration

The most damaging consequence is the requirement to register as a sex offender under RCW 9A.44.130. This registration is generally for life, or at least 15 years, and imposes severe restrictions:

• Public Disclosure: The registration details are public, including the offender's photograph, address, and conviction details, inflicting irreparable reputational damage.
• Residential Restrictions: Offenders are often legally barred from living near schools, parks, or child care facilities, making housing nearly impossible in urban areas like Seattle.
• Employment Barriers: The public record permanently bars the individual from any job involving contact with children, including education, healthcare, and child care services, crippling career prospects.
• Civil Commitment: Following the prison sentence, the State may petition the court for the defendant's involuntary civil commitment to a secure facility as a Sexually Violent Predator (SVP), potentially resulting in indefinite incarceration.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Child Molestation Defense

Hale Law Enterprises applies a robust, multi-faceted strategy born from 28 years of experience dedicated to defending complex sex offenses. We do not assume guilt; we challenge every part of the State's narrative.

• Constitutional Defenses (Suppression): We prioritize challenging the constitutional validity of the police investigation. We file motions to suppress any incriminating statements or physical evidence obtained in violation of the client's Fourth and Fifth Amendment rights, which often leads to the dismissal of the entire case.
• Alibi and Mistaken Identity: We conduct a thorough investigation to confirm the client's alibi, or to prove that the alleged victim's identification was tainted, mistaken, or based on suggestibility during police questioning.
• Lack of Corroboration: We focus on the absence of physical or digital evidence, arguing to the jury that a conviction cannot rest solely on the uncorroborated, potentially inconsistent testimony of a single accuser.
• Affirmative Defenses: Where appropriate, we explore affirmative defenses related to consent (where legally applicable due to age gaps and specific RCW provisions) or necessity.
• Jury Selection: We utilize specialized jury consultation techniques to identify and remove jurors prejudiced by the nature of the charge, ensuring a fair and impartial jury is selected in the Seattle courtroom.

Facing Child Molestation Accusations in Seattle: What to Do Next

Your immediate steps can make a significant difference in your case. Before responding to the police or making any statements, reach out for legal guidance. As your child molestation attorney, Matthew T. Hale offers confidential consultations 24/7, and will act swiftly to protect your rights and privacy.

If you have just been accused, consider these essentials:

• Do not discuss your case with anyone besides your attorney.
• Preserve any evidence or communications related to your situation.
• Write down a timeline of events and any relevant details while they are fresh in your mind.
• Contact a child molestation lawyer in Seattle for immediate advice tailored to your case.

The Legal Process for Child Molestation Defense in Seattle

Child molestation cases in Seattle move through specific stages, typically starting with an investigation by the Seattle Police Department or King County Sheriff’s Office and progressing through hearings at King County Superior Court. Washington statutes impose strict procedures and heavy consequences for these charges—including mandatory registration and other penalties if convicted.

As your child molestation lawyers in Seattle, we will walk you through every step:

The general legal process in Seattle includes:

• Initial police investigation and interviews
• Charging decisions by the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office
• First court appearances (often at the King County Courthouse)
• Pretrial hearings and motions to address evidence, bail, or other legal matters
• Plea negotiations or preparation for trial
• Trial, verdict, and potential post-trial steps

We will explain the specifics of each stage and answer your questions about timing and local court customs. While case timelines can vary, we are committed to providing honest updates so you know what to expect throughout your defense.

Why Choose Our Defense for Child Molestation Charges

When you face such a serious allegation, trust in your attorney is non-negotiable. What sets us apart as a child molestation attorney is the level of personal involvement and experience we bring to each case. With 28 years of experience as a criminal defense attorney and a proven record of defending high-profile cases in Seattle, our attorney is equipped to handle every detail of your defense.

You will work directly with our attorney—not with an associate—ensuring your situation receives my full attention and resources. Our approach is thorough and proactive, and we believe clear communication is key to any effective legal strategy. Hundreds of clients have provided five-star reviews for Hale Law Enterprises, often citing regular updates and feeling respected throughout their case. 

We are available for both English and Spanish-speaking clients so that everyone receives clear, accessible advice. Our commitment is to your defense, privacy, and peace of mind from day one.

Contact Us for Immediate Help

If you are facing child molestation charges in Seattle, getting prompt legal guidance is critical. We offer free, confidential consultations day and night. When you contact Hale Law Enterprises, you speak directly with Attorney Hale, not an answering service. Spanish language services are available as well, so you can communicate fully and comfortably.

Call (206) 207-4776 or reach out online for a confidential consultation with a child molestation attorney in Seattle, available 24/7.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my case stay confidential if I call your firm?

Your privacy comes first. Every conversation with us is confidential, and our attorney personally handles each case—so your information remains protected under attorney-client privilege. Maintaining your dignity and privacy is central to how we work from our first contact forward.

What steps should I take right after being accused?

Contact a child molestation lawyer immediately. Do not talk to police, social workers, or others about the allegations until you have legal representation. Save any evidence, make a detailed account of events, and consult with us so we can protect your rights from the beginning. Quick action often helps prevent mistakes that could affect your defense.

How much experience do you have with cases like mine?

Our attorney has over 27 years of experience defending people accused of child molestation and other serious crimes in Seattle and King County. His background includes representing clients in high-profile trials and complex cases involving difficult facts. This experience allows him to anticipate the prosecution’s approach and build informed strategies for your defense. We have also represented clients charged with sex crimes in various situations.

How long will my case take in Seattle courts?

Case timelines depend on the complexity of the allegations, the number of witnesses, and court schedules. Some cases may resolve within a few months, especially if the evidence is weak or false accusations are uncovered. Trials at King County Superior Court can take several months to a year or more. We will keep you updated about every stage and set expectations based on what your case involves.

Can you help if English is not my first language?

Yes, we provide all services in both English and Spanish. You can discuss your concerns, ask questions, and receive updates in your preferred language. Our goal is to ensure every client receives clear and effective representation, regardless of language preference.

What makes you different from other child molestation lawyers in Seattle?

You work directly with our attorney from start to finish. With over 27 years of practice in Seattle’s courts and a record of handling high-profile child molestation defense cases, our attorney provides client-centered support and skilled legal strategies. Hundreds of satisfied clients highlight his personal involvement and diligent communication.

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