Erik P. Kaeding | Kent Criminal Lawyer

• Washington State Bar Association,
  1994 - Present
• King County Bar Association
• Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• South King County Bar Association

I represented a young woman who was accused of stealing from work. The employer was convinced of her guilt and refused to consider the possibility of other suspects. The police and prosecutor relied on the evidence provided by the employer. All of the evidence pointed to my client as the guilty person. My client insisted on her innocence and refused to accept that she should take a plea deal. Through thorough research, we were able to establish that, in fact, another employee could have perpetrated the crime, and the jury acquitted my client of all charges.

I built a successful practice by treating my clients with respect. An important aspect of respect is to let your client make the important decisions. In order to make the right decisions clients must be educated about their particular legal issues. If you, as a lawyer, dictate to your client what they have to do, they feel like they are helpless and are not particularly happy with the outcome of their case nor are they happy with the representation.

Clients should interview lawyers. Few people know criminal defense lawyers before they need one. A lawyer should be chosen who is compatible with the clients personality. Not all lawyers and clients are a good fit. If you are not comfortable talking to your lawyer before you make your hiring decision, you are probably talking to the wrong lawyer.

Knowledge of the local courts is crucial to success. Knowing which judges and prosecutors you are dealing with always leads to the best deals. There are more than 30 courts in King County and I know them all.

During a phone consultation I can get a basic overview of the facts and determine whether a face to face meeting will be beneficial. I can also provide some basic legal advice regarding ongoing investigations and potential charges that could be coming. There will also be some discussion of the financial obligations associated with hiring a lawyer.

During the consultation I will typically want to know what the charges are and the jurisdiction. I also would like to know a name and contact information.

I have been a lawyer in the same location for 20 years. I get many referrals from satisfied former clients. I give my clients the best service I can and I get the results my clients are happy with.

I like helping people get the best deal. I like beating the government lawyers. I like the variety of people I meet and the places I go. No two clients are the same and no two cases are the same.

When I am not working I am either golfing or spending time with my friends and family. I enjoy all sorts of recreational sports and I like to watch the local professional teams both in person and on TV.

I am currently a member of the Advisory Committee for the Crime and Justice Program at the local community college. I also give lectures about legal defense to criminal justice students when requested. I previously advised the local high school in a Mock Trial competition. I was also a fast pitch coach for 6 years with the park and recreation league.