Felony Defense in Burien
Burien sits on Puget Sound just south of Seattle and west of Sea-Tac Airport, with SR 509 and SR 518 running through it. The city contracts with the King County Sheriff’s Office for police services, so felony arrests in Burien are typically made by deputies assigned to the city.
Whether you were arrested, are being investigated or have already been charged, Kimberly gives you a realistic assessment of the law, the evidence and your options, and she works hard toward the best possible resolution of your case.
Where Burien Felony Cases Are Heard
Burien lies south of Interstate 90, so its felony cases fall in King County’s Kent case assignment area and are generally heard at the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent. The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office decides whether to file felony charges after reviewing the sheriff’s investigation.
- Maleng Regional Justice Center401 Fourth Avenue North, Kent · King County Superior Court
- King County Prosecuting Attorney’s OfficeDecides whether to file felony charges
Felony Charges Kimberly Defends in Burien
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 Burien
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 Burien 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 Maleng Regional Justice Center
Felony cases from Burien are filed in King County Superior Court and assigned to the Maleng Regional Justice Center (401 Fourth Avenue North, Kent). 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 Burien 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
Burien Felony FAQs
Where will a Burien felony case be heard?
Burien is in King County’s Kent case assignment area, so felony cases are generally heard at the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent rather than the courthouse in downtown Seattle.
Can a felony charge from Burien 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 Burien?
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 Burien 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.