State v. Zerahaimanot and Washington’s Rules on Unpublished Opinions
In State v. Zerahaimanot, the Washington Court of Appeals (Division I) resolved key questions about resentencing, waiver of appellate arguments, and the limits on citing unpublished...
Reyna Juror Public Trial Violation: How Washington Courts Protect Open Jury Selection
Introduction The Reyna juror public trial violation highlights a critical constitutional safeguard: in Washington, jury selection and juror challenges must be conducted in open court, accessible to the...
Understanding Washington Double Jeopardy Retrial Rights
When can the State try a case again after a mistrial? In State v. O’Brien, the Washington Supreme Court addressed whether retrying a criminal defendant after...
Washington Court Holiday New Year: What to Know About Jan 1
🎆 Do Washington Courts Close for New Year’s? The winter holidays are a time for celebration — but if you’re involved in a legal matter,...
Is December 26, 2025 a Court Holiday in Pierce County District Court?
🎄 The Day After Christmas: Are Pierce County Courts Open? As the holiday season winds down, many people wonder: Is December 26, 2025 a court holiday...
Danielson Washington Supreme Court Ruling on LFO Reimbursement
On December 11, 2025, the Supreme Court of Washington issued its opinion in State v. Danielson, Docket No. 103627‑2, a case involving constitutional challenges to how legal financial obligations (LFOs) are reimbursed after a...
Admissibility of Intercepted Communication Under RCW 9.73.050
In Washington State, the admissibility of intercepted communication in court is governed by RCW 9.73.050. This statute is part of the broader state wiretapping and surveillance chapter designed to...
Christmas Lights on Cars — What WAC 204-21-230 Means for Holiday Decorations
As the holiday season rolls around, many people enjoy decorating their cars — stringing up Christmas lights, draping tinsel, or illuminating a vehicle in a...
What Happens Next? A Guide to the Pretrial Services Process in Pierce County
Reporting After Release Once you’re released from custody and your case is pending in Pierce County Superior Court, the first step is reporting. You must report in...
Home Detention Conditions under Washington Law: A Closer Look at RCW 9.94A.734
Introduction For many individuals facing criminal sentencing in Washington State, home detention may seem like a more humane alternative to jail or prison. But eligibility...