Felony Defense in Renton
Renton wraps around the south end of Lake Washington, from the Landing and downtown to the Highlands, Benson Hill, Kennydale and Talbot Hill. With I-405 and SR 167 running through it, Renton sees arrests by the Renton Police Department and by state and county agencies that can lead to felony charges.
When a Renton case is charged as a felony, it leaves city court behind and moves to King County Superior Court. Kimberly explains what that means, what the prosecutor has to prove and what your realistic options are, then builds a defense around your goals.
Where Renton Felony Cases Are Heard
Renton 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 rather than the downtown Seattle courthouse. The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, not the city, decides whether to file felony charges.
- 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 Renton
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 Renton
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 Renton 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 Renton 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 Renton 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
Renton Felony FAQs
Where are Renton felony cases heard?
Renton is in King County’s Kent case assignment area, so felony cases from Renton are generally heard at the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent. Misdemeanors from Renton are handled separately in city court.
Can a felony charge from Renton 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 Renton?
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 Renton 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.