Misdemeanor Defense Attorneys in Vancouver, WA

Most criminal charges are misdemeanors, and the process can be more confusing than people expect. We handle the full range across Clark County.

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Dedication

We are available 24/7

Experience

Nearly 30 years of combined criminal defense experience

Insider Knowledge

A former Oregon prosecutor now fights on your side

Trial-Tested

More than 60 trials fought in the courtroom

Misdemeanor Charges

Most criminal charges are misdemeanors. One person in three has a criminal record. Most of those are misdemeanors. The chances of being charged with a misdemeanor are high. So it pays to know a misdemeanor lawyer. If you've been charged with a simple misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor, the process can be confusing. Call today to schedule a free consultation with a misdemeanor lawyer. We handle hundreds of types of misdemeanor charges in Washington, so we are confident we can handle your case. There are too many different misdemeanor charges in Washington to list, but misdemeanor lawyers regularly deal with some common charges. These include a variety of crime types, further described below.

Misdemeanor Driving Offenses

Common misdemeanor driving offenses include Driving Under the Influence (DUI), Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving in the First Degree, Driving While Suspended, Failure to Transfer Title, and Ignition Interlock Violation.

Misdemeanor Person Crimes

Common misdemeanor person crimes include Assault in the Fourth Degree, Harassment, Reckless Endangerment, Violating an Antiharassment Order, and Violating a No Contact Order.

Misdemeanor Property Crimes

Misdemeanor charges against property are amongst the most commonly charged crimes. These include stealing, trespassing, damaging property and more. We handle dozens of these types of cases a year and know how to best fight against these types of misdemeanor charges. A misdemeanor lawyer can help you if you've been charged with any of these misdemeanor property crimes: Theft in the Third Degree, Malicious Mischief in the Third Degree, Criminal Trespass in the First Degree, Criminal Trespass in the Second Degree, and Possession of Stolen Property in the Third Degree.

Misdemeanor Alcohol and Drug Offenses

Common misdemeanor alcohol and drug offenses include Minor in Possession and Unlawful Possession of Prescription Medication.

Public Policy Misdemeanor

Public policy misdemeanors include Bail Jumping, Obstructing a Law Enforcement Officer, Providing False Information to a Public Servant, and Vancouver Municipal Code Violations.

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Facing a Misdemeanor Charge? Do Not Let It Become a Conviction

Free consultation. Available 24/7. We quote a flat fee up front and offer payment plans on most cases. The number we quote is the number you pay, no matter how many hearings your case takes.

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Cases we handle

Other Charges We Defend

Assault

Assault

Charges range from a simple push to felony assault with a weapon, every degree needs its own defense.

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Harassment

Harassment

Threats, repeated unwanted contact, or intimidation charges, defended from the first accusation.

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View all Criminal Defense Charges

4.9 star reviews based on 110+ reviews

What Our Clients Say About Us

I hired Roger to represent my husband when he was arrested on false charges. From the very beginning, Roger was responsive, knowledgeable and willing to take on the case. He was the only one to return my call when I was searching for help. He is very confident in his ability and worked hard to get all the charges dismissed. He is able to be calm in situations where his clients are anything but. I am so grateful for the services provided by Roger. He is very respected in the legal community here in Vancouver. I hope I never need a lawyer again, but if I did, Roger would be my first choice.
RL Rosie L. 2 months ago
I am writing a much overdue review for Roger Priest after he has gone above and beyond while representing me as my lawyer. Last year I found myself facing legal difficulties after my first and only DUI. While the circumstances were incredibly stressful, Roger's involvement in my case made the process straight forward and my case was resolved in a timely manner. Roger is exceptionally proficient in cases like mine and he demonstrates that in and out of the court room. Not only did he walk me through the process but he put my family's concerns at ease by answering all of our questions and making himself available whenever we needed clarification. I was very fortunate to have Roger on my side during that difficult time and would highly recommend his services to anyone that finds themselves in need of legal counsel. Thank you once again, Roger!
CM Carly M. 2 months ago
Called for advice on what turned out to be a scam call. Roger Priest had me at ease in a very timely manner. Thank you!
FA Florence A. 2 months ago
VanWa Legal exceeded my expectations. From the initial consultation to the final court appearance, they were thorough, strategic, and always had my best interests in mind. Their attention to detail and dedication to their clients is unmatched. Highly recommend!
D Deimer 2 months ago
Roger Priest at VanWa Legal has been instrumental in changing my life for the better. He fought for me and won! I'm forever grateful.
BC Becky C 2 months ago
I met Roger at the start of 2025, somehow after I paid for a fender bender that I caused I was hit with a hit and run little did I know when I had a warrant two years after the incident. As of today my case was entirely dismissed without even going to trial. I couldn't be happier with the results and couldn't vouch for a different lawyer. Every time we had a court date, we were the first ones on and promptly the first case handled. Roger Priest is the man- I would highly recommend you give him a call if you are experiencing trouble.
CC Cristian Carter 2 months ago
Had a consultation with Roger priest this morning, paid attention to detail and what he had to say and he was very honest and upforward not to mention he took the time to look up additional information which lead to the best possible news. I thought my life was over and he gave me hope. Thank you Roger I will be hiring you!!! You give people with a bad past who are trying to do good lots of hope! God bless you.
ML Mr Lopez 2 months ago

FAQ

Common Misdemeanor Defense Questions

Is a misdemeanor still a criminal record in Washington?

Yes. A misdemeanor conviction is a criminal record and can show up on background checks.

Can a misdemeanor be reduced or dismissed?

Often it can. Depending on the facts and your history, a misdemeanor may be dismissed, reduced, or resolved through a diversion or deferral that keeps a conviction off your record. What's realistic depends on the charge and the strength of the state's evidence.

What's the difference between a misdemeanor and a gross misdemeanor?

Both are misdemeanors, but a gross misdemeanor carries higher maximum penalties, up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine, while a simple misdemeanor tops out at 90 days and a $1,000 fine. The classification depends on the specific offense.

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Speak With A Lawyer Now

Free consultation. Available 24/7. We quote a flat fee up front and offer payment plans on most cases. The number we quote is the number you pay, no matter how many hearings your case takes.

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Or Call (360) 281-7314
The VanWa Legal attorney team