call today 253-617-7525

Schroader, Steele | & Associates
253-617-7525

Bringing Over 20 Years Of Combined Experience
To The Legal Battlefield.

  1. Home
    2.  — Criminal Defense
Photo of Attorneys Dennis Schroader and Patti Steele

Facing Criminal Charges? Let Our Attorneys Defend You And Protect Your Future.

If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime, you need an experienced attorney to examine your case and explain how the law will apply to your situation. Your future is at stake and you need legal guidance you can trust throughout the process. That’s exactly what you can expect when you contact Schroader, Steele & Associates.

Our experienced attorneys defend clients throughout the Tacoma area, utilizing more than 20 years of combined legal experience. From the most serious felonies to simple misdemeanors, we dedicate the time and attention your case needs to achieve the best possible results.

Call On Us When You Need A Champion

At Schroader, Steele & Associates, we have the experience you need to help you fight serious legal problems. Let us be your champion in the courtroom and at the negotiating table. We handle a full range of criminal defense issues, including:

  • Domestic violence – When you face charges of assault within your family, more than just your criminal record is at stake.
  • Driving under the influence (DUI) – Drunk driving charges can jeopardize your job and your reputation, not to mention the possibility of jail time and excessive fines.
  • Felony charges – Violent felonies and third-strike convictions can lead to years behind bars.
  • Drug charges – From minor possession to trafficking charges, drug charges carry harsh penalties.
  • White collar crimes – Experience is key in defending these financially based crimes.
  • Vehicular homicide – A tragic accident could cost you more than your driver’s license.

We can also help you with post-conviction matters, such as record expungements. We can review your case to see if you are eligible to get your gun rights restored.

Answers To Commonly Asked Criminal Defense Questions

Below, you’ll find answers to some questions you may have about your criminal charges or about the legal process generally.

What is the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for driving in Washington?

As in nearly every other state, Washington’s BAC limit is .08%. Anyone with a BAC at or above that level can be convicted for DUI based almost entirely on the test results alone. It is also possible to be convicted of DUI while under the limit if the prosecutor can prove that your driving was affected by your use of drugs or alcohol. It is important to note that state lawmakers are considering bills to lower the BAC limit to just .05%, which would make Washington’s BAC limit among the lowest in the nation.

Will my license be revoked after being charged with DUI?

If you are convicted on DUI charges, you will likely face a license suspension of at least 90 days. However, you also face a separate suspension based on the arrest alone. After being arrested for DUI, you have just seven days to request a hearing to contest what’s known as an administrative suspension. If you don’t make the request in time or if the hearing examiner does not decide in your favor, your administrative license suspension will go into effect.

How does Washington define domestic violence?

The “violence” in the term domestic violence can include inflicting physical harm or bodily injury, threatening to inflict harm, stalking and sexual assault. The term “domestic” refers to the relationship between the alleged abuser and the alleged victim. The victim can be a family member or someone living in the same household. It could also be an intimate partner, former intimate partner or someone with whom the alleged abuser shares a child or children.

Find Out How We Can Help – Contact Us Today

Don’t face your charges alone. Rely on battle-tested attorneys who are ready to defend your legal rights every step of the way. Discover what Schroader, Steele & Associates, can do for your case in an initial consultation. Call our office at 253-617-7525 or reach out online. We serve clients throughout Pierce County, Washington.