Felony Defense in Bellevue
Bellevue is the Eastside’s largest city, stretching from downtown Bellevue and Crossroads to Factoria, Eastgate and the neighborhoods along Lake Sammamish. Felony arrests here usually begin with the Bellevue Police Department and end up in front of the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, which decides whether to file charges.
For many Bellevue residents, a felony charge also threatens a professional license, a security clearance or an employment-based visa. Kimberly builds a defense that accounts for those consequences from the first conversation, and she explains your options candidly so you can make informed decisions.
Where Bellevue Felony Cases Are Heard
King County’s local criminal rules divide felony cases between the courthouse in Seattle and the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent, generally using Interstate 90 as the line. Bellevue is named in the rule as part of the Seattle case assignment area, so even the parts of the city south of I-90 are assigned to the King County Courthouse in downtown Seattle.
- King County Courthouse516 Third Avenue, Seattle · King County Superior Court
- King County Prosecuting Attorney’s OfficeDecides whether to file felony charges
Felony Charges Kimberly Defends in Bellevue
Kimberly Exe has tried cases to verdict involving homicide, violent offenses, “third strike” offenses, sex offenses, domestic violence, child and elder abuse, kidnapping, robbery, burglary, theft, fraud and drug offenses. Learn how Washington law treats each type of charge:
- Felony DefenseAssault, robbery, burglary, homicide and other felonies
- Sex CrimesDiscreet defense against sex offense allegations
- Domestic ViolenceFelony DV charges and no-contact order violations
- Drug CrimesPossession with intent, delivery and manufacturing
- Immigration ConsequencesProtecting non-citizens’ immigration status
After a Felony Arrest in Bellevue
Arrest and first appearance
If you are arrested and held, a judge reviews probable cause and sets release conditions or bail shortly after booking. An attorney can argue for your release at this hearing.
The charging decision
Police in Bellevue refer the case to the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office which decides whether to file felony charges, which charges to file and whether to seek enhancements. Early representation can sometimes influence that decision.
Arraignment at the King County Courthouse
Felony cases from Bellevue are filed in King County Superior Court and assigned to the King County Courthouse (516 Third Avenue, Seattle). At arraignment, you enter a plea of not guilty and the court sets the case schedule.
Investigation, motions and resolution
The defense obtains discovery, conducts its own investigation and files motions to challenge unlawful searches or unreliable evidence. Many cases resolve through dismissal, reduced charges or a sentencing alternative; others go to trial before a jury.
Why Bellevue Clients Choose Kimberly Exe
- More than 30 years defending people charged with felonies in King and Snohomish Counties
- Well over 100 jury trials, including homicide, sex offense, domestic violence and “third strike” cases
- Therapeutic court experience, including Drug Court and Mental Health Court
- A realistic case assessment at a free, one-hour consultation by phone or in person
Bellevue Felony FAQs
Will my Bellevue felony case be heard in Seattle or Kent?
Seattle. King County’s criminal case assignment rule places the entire city of Bellevue in the Seattle case assignment area, so Bellevue felony cases are assigned to the King County Courthouse in downtown Seattle.
Can a felony charge from Bellevue be reduced or dismissed?
Sometimes. Through investigation, pretrial motions and negotiation, a felony charge may be dismissed, amended to a lesser offense or resolved through a sentencing alternative. The outcome depends on the evidence and your criminal history.
Should I talk to police or detectives in Bellevue?
You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline questioning and contact a defense lawyer before speaking with police, even if you believe you can explain.
Is the consultation really free?
Yes. Kimberly’s initial consultation is free, takes about an hour, and can be held by phone or in person. Call 206-661-4694 to talk about your Bellevue case.
This page provides general information about Washington law. It is not legal advice, and laws change. Contact the office to discuss the specific facts of your case.