Gas Station Theft - Motor Vehicle Fuel - Defense Attorney in Washington FAQs

Recent Results:

Rendering Criminal Assistance - Dismissed

Client's Second DUI - resolved as Negligent Driving

Theft - Dismissed

Felony Drug Possession - Resolved as misdemeanor, no jail, no treatment

Prostitution Charges - Dismissed

Failure to Comply with Police - Dismissed

First Degree Robbery - Resolved as Theft

Reckless Driving - No Conviction

Driving with Suspended Licence - No Conviction

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia - Dismissed

Reckless Driving - No conviction

Frequently Asked Questions about Alleged Criminal Violations in Arlington, Edmonds, Everett, Lake Stevens, Lynnwood, Marysville, Monroe and the rest of Snohomish County, Washington

I got caught driving away from a gas station after pumping gas and not paying for it. What should I do?

First, you should not admit that you did this to anyone. Better yet, do not discuss the case with anyone except an attorney, even your husband or wife. Assuming the dollar amount is less than $750, you can be charged with one of two crimes: Theft in the Third Degree or Theft of Motor Vehicle Fuel. Both of these charges are classified as “gross misdemeanors” meaning they can be punished by up to 365 days in jail and a $5000 fine.

However, Theft of Motor Vehicle Fuel has an additional penalty that Theft in the Third Degree does not. The fuel conviction will result in suspension of your drivers’ license for a period of up to six months; the length is determined by the sentencing court.

It is imperative that you talk to an attorney soon to ensure that you are entirely protected. In many cases, defenses are available that may result in a dismissal (or a very favorable reduction) in charges. Hiring an attorney may be expensive, but when criminal history, jail time, fines and your license are at stake, it is very much worth the expense to be fully represented.

Back to Frequently Asked Questions

Our Contacts:
Marysville Office: (360) 659-4950
Burlington Office: (360) 757-8470

This page is not intended to be, and does not, constitute legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney.

4025 80th Street NE, Suite B
Marysville, WA 98270

View our Sitemap

The Ashbach Law Offices, LLC criminal defense practice focuses on DUI – Driving Under the Influence, Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving, Driving with a Suspended License, Hit and Run, Assault, Domestic Violence, Drug Possession (including marijuana),and Paraphernalia Possession, Malicious Mischief, Public Disturbances like Disorderly Conduct, Theft, No-Contact Orders, Harassment, Probation Violation Hearings, as well as speeding tickets.
We defend our clients in all of Snohomish County and Skagit County, as well as North King County. These counties include the following cities in Washington: Anacortes, Arlington, Brier, Burlington, Concrete, Darrington, Edmonds, Everett, Gold Bar, Granite Falls, Index, La Conner, Lake Stevens, Lynnwood, Marysville, Mill Creek, Monroe, Mount Vernon, Mukilteo, Sedro Woolley, Snohomish, Stanwood, Sultan, Woodway.
These cities include the following courts in Washington: Anacortes Municipal Court, Burlington Municipal Court, Cascade District Court, Edmonds Municipal Court, Everett District Court, Everett Municipal Court, Evergreen District Court, Lynnwood Municipal Court, Marysville Municipal Court, Mount Vernon Municipal Court, Sedro Woolley Municipal Court, Skagit County District Court, Skagit County Superior Court, Snohomish County District Court, Snohomish County Superior Court , South District Court.

We also now have an office located at 2520 Colby Ave, Suite 117, Everett, WA 98208.

“You have greatly benefited from Mr. Ashbach’s advocacy” – Local court judge

“Not guilty” – Local jury

“Good brief. We’ll dismiss your case.” – Local prosecutor

“Such a result would not have been possible without your attorney’s assistance.” - Local court judge

“Defense motion granted. Case dismissed” – Local court judge

“Your client was very fortunate to have such a dedicated and thorough attorney” – Local prosecutor

“For the record, excellent briefing and oral argument” – Local court judge

Free Consultation - (360) 659-4950