Felony Defense in Federal Way
Federal Way sits along I-5 at the southern edge of King County, bordering Pierce County. Arrests by the Federal Way Police Department, from the city center to Twin Lakes and the neighborhoods near Dash Point, can lead to felony charges filed by the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
Kimberly has defended hundreds of people charged with felonies, including assault, robbery, drug delivery and domestic violence offenses. She gives every client a realistic assessment of the evidence and the law, and she prepares each case as if it will go to trial.
Where Federal Way Felony Cases Are Heard
Federal Way felony cases are heard at the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent, part of King County’s Kent case assignment area. Because the city borders Pierce County, location matters: an incident that happens across the county line is charged by the Pierce County prosecutor instead, in a different courthouse with different procedures.
- 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 Federal Way
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 Federal Way
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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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
Federal Way Felony FAQs
What if I was arrested near the Federal Way and Pierce County line?
The county where the alleged offense happened usually determines which prosecutor files the case. Incidents within Federal Way are charged in King County Superior Court and heard in Kent; incidents in Pierce County are charged there instead. Kimberly can help sort out jurisdiction early.
Can a felony charge from Federal Way 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 Federal Way?
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 Federal Way 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.