Felony Defense in Kent
Kent sits at the center of south King County, from the warehouses and distribution centers of the Kent Valley to the residential neighborhoods of East Hill and West Hill. Arrests by the Kent Police Department, and by agencies across south King County, can lead to felony charges that are heard right here in Kent.
That is because Kent is home to the Maleng Regional Justice Center, King County Superior Court’s south county courthouse. Kimberly has practiced in King County courts for more than three decades and understands how felony cases move through the RJC, from first appearance and arraignment to motions, negotiation and trial.
Where Kent Felony Cases Are Heard
Felony cases from Kent are assigned to the Kent case assignment area and heard at the Maleng Regional Justice Center, 401 Fourth Avenue North. The RJC also houses a King County jail facility, so many people arrested in south King County see a judge for the first time in the same building where their case will be tried.
- 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 Kent
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 Kent
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 Kent 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 Kent 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 Kent 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
Kent Felony FAQs
What is the Maleng Regional Justice Center?
The Norm Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent is King County Superior Court’s south county courthouse. Felony cases arising in most of King County south of Interstate 90, including Kent, are assigned there rather than to the courthouse in downtown Seattle.
Can a felony charge from Kent 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 Kent?
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 Kent 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.