Category: Drug Crimes
Navigating the New Gross Misdemeanor Classification for Drug Possession
Recent changes to Washington law have significantly altered how certain drug crimes, specifically simple possession, are handled in the criminal justice system. What was once treated as a felony offense is now classified as a gross misdemeanor. While this shift reduces the maximum penalties, a…
Understanding Washington’s Evolving Drug Possession Laws Post-Blake Decision
In 2021, the Washington State Supreme Court ruled that the state’s existing drug possession law was unconstitutional because it did not require any proof of intent or knowledge of possession. This was deemed a violation of due process. As such, the State Supreme Court ruled…