Cyber Crime Defense in Lynnwood

Over 30 Years of Criminal Defense. Former Lynnwood City Attorney.

A cyber crime investigation moves fast. Law enforcement may have already imaged your devices, reviewed your account logs, or contacted your employer before you know you’re a target. If investigators have reached out or you’ve been formally charged, getting an attorney involved early can shape how the rest of the case unfolds. I’m Jim Johanson, and I’ve spent over 30 years handling criminal defense matters in Washington state courts, taking every case personally from the first hearing through resolution.

My time as a prosecutor gives me a clear view of how the other side builds these cases. That perspective informs every defense decision I make.

Contact Johanson Law Group, Inc. now to discuss your situation confidentially. Call (425) 341-4347 to get started.

I Know How Lynnwood Prosecutors Think

Most criminal defense attorneys understand how prosecutors think in general. I understand how they think in Lynnwood specifically. Before focusing on defense work, I served as a Deputy Prosecutor in both Pierce and King counties and as an assistant attorney for the City of Lynnwood. That means I know how local prosecutors and law enforcement evaluate cyber crime allegations, what evidence patterns they find compelling, and where cases tend to have weaknesses.

I’ve taken hundreds of cases to trial across state and federal courts. Clients receive direct, personal attention. Your case doesn’t get handed off to a paralegal or junior associate. I’m involved from the first conversation through every court appearance.

Types of Cyber Crime Charges I Defend

Cyber crime is a broad category. Prosecutors use it to describe conduct ranging from unauthorized computer access to sophisticated fraud schemes. Common charges include:

• Unauthorized computer access and hacking: Accessing another person’s computer system, account, or database without permission
• Online fraud: Schemes conducted through email, websites, or other digital platforms to obtain money or property under false pretenses
• Identity theft and phishing: Using another person’s identifying information, or deceptive electronic communications, to obtain credentials or financial data
• Malware and ransomware: Distributing software designed to damage, disrupt, or extort access to computer systems
• Cyberstalking and cyber harassment: Using electronic communications with intent to harass, threaten, or intimidate another person
• Internet-facilitated sex offenses: Online possession or distribution of child pornography, which can trigger mandatory sex offender registration in addition to criminal penalties

Washington’s Cybercrime Act: RCW 9A.90

Washington state cyber crime charges are governed primarily by the Washington Cybercrime Act, codified at RCW 9A.90. The statute creates several distinct offenses with different severity levels.

Computer Trespass Charges

Computer trespass is the most common charge. First-degree computer trespass involves intentionally accessing another’s computer system without authorization with intent to commit a separate crime, or where a government database is involved. That’s a class C felony. Second-degree computer trespass covers unauthorized access that doesn’t meet the first-degree threshold and is charged as a gross misdemeanor.

Additional Offenses Under RCW 9A.90

The statute also defines electronic data tampering in the first and second degree, electronic data service interference, electronic data theft, spoofing (a gross misdemeanor), and cyber harassment as separate criminal offenses. The charge and its severity depend on the conduct alleged, the systems involved, and any harm caused.

State Court vs. Federal Court for Cyber Crime Cases in Lynnwood

Where your case is heard depends on what you’re charged with and who’s prosecuting it. Misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor state charges, such as second-degree computer trespass or spoofing, are typically handled at Lynnwood Municipal Court or Snohomish County District Court. Felony state charges go to Snohomish County Superior Court in Everett.

Federal charges are a different matter. The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, 18 U.S.C. § 1030, prohibits unauthorized access to protected computers and covers hacking, computer-based fraud, and password trafficking. Federal cyber crime cases in this region are prosecuted in the Western District of Washington, with penalties ranging from fines to lengthy federal prison sentences depending on the offense and harm involved. Federal charges often arise when the alleged conduct crosses state lines or involves computers connected to interstate commerce. I handle both state and federal matters.

What to Do If You’re Under Investigation

If law enforcement contacts you about a suspected cyber crime, you have the right to remain silent and the right to have an attorney present before answering any questions. Exercise both. Statements made during an early “informal” conversation with investigators can become central evidence against you.

Be cautious about consenting to searches of your devices or online accounts. Digital evidence in these cases, including device forensics, IP address logs, and account access records, can be challenged on grounds such as how it was obtained, the accuracy of the technical analysis, or whether it actually demonstrates unauthorized conduct rather than authorized use. Many cyber crime cases are resolved through negotiated outcomes, including reduced charges, but reaching those outcomes requires early, strategic advocacy.

Discuss Your Case Confidentially

I represent clients facing cyber crime charges throughout Lynnwood and Mountlake Terrace. Whether you’re under investigation, have been contacted by detectives, or have already been charged, the sooner we talk, the more options may be available to you.

Johanson Law Group, Inc. offers a confidential case evaluation. Reach out today to describe your situation and find out how I can help.

Call (425) 341-4347 to schedule your confidential consultation with Johanson Law Group, Inc..