Federal Petty Offense (aka Federal Ticket / Class A or B Misdemeanors)
Did you know that almost any ticket issued by a federal law enforcement officer on federal land, including a speeding ticket, is a crime? Federal agencies that commonly issue tickets in Eastern Washington include the United States Forest Service (USFS), United States Park Police (NPS), United States Veterans Affairs Police (VA), and the United States Bureau of Reclamation Office of Law Enforcement. Most citations are “Class B misdemeanors” under the Code of Federal Regulations, which means they are punishable by up to 6 months in jail (akin to simple misdemeanor in the Washington State system). Realistically, the chances of being sentenced to jail are very low, but it is important to address these matters quickly and with a lawyer who understands the system. Some citations are “Class A misdemeanors,” which means the punishment can be up to a year in jail (akin to a gross misdemeanor in the Washington state system).
The local federal judges have voted to enact a “Bail Forfeiture Schedule” which provides for an amount of money you can pay in lieu of appearing in federal court in Spokane. This amount appears on the ticket as well as payment instructions. You also have the right to challenge the validity of the ticket, or engage in negotiation with the federal prosecutor for a lesser amount of money. However, paying any amount of money in this situation can be viewed by other courts as a “conviction.” If this is a concern, make sure to speak to a lawyer prior to paying any fine. Don't ignore these citations, your failure to pay or challegne the ticket in court can result in a warrant for your arrest.
If your ticket has an “MA” or “mandatory appearance” designation, you MUST appear in federal court. Your failure to do so could result in a warrant for your arrest to include the US Marshals arriving at your house to serve the warrant and take you into custody. This appearance will be in front of the local Magistrate at the federal court house in Spokane, where the Magistrate will advise you of the charge and your rights. Charges which carry the designation of “MA” are usually more serious and you should consider retaining an attorney.
Not all attorneys can practice in Federal Court; to practice law in federal court, attorneys must be admitted to the federal bar. Caitlin Baunsgard is a qualified, experienced criminal attorney who can help to get you the best possible resolution to your Federal petty offense charge. Caitlin’s prior experience working on the petty offense docket for the United States Attorney’s Office gives her unique insight into these offenses. Call (888) 537-5778 to schedule a free consultation.
