If you have been charged with a criminal offense in D.C., you will want to know: What must the government prove for a conviction? What defenses are available? What are the penalties? What can you expect when you have been charged with a criminal offense in D.C.? What happens at the arraignment, initial status hearing, etc.? Learn everything you need to know here.
Being charged with a crime - even a simple misdemeanor - can be a frightening and confusing experience. Being convicted of a crime can jeopardize a person's job, family, reputation and future. Our legal system offers a number of protections to safeguard the accused's constitutional rights.
Being charged with a crime - even a simple misdemeanor - can be a frightening and confusing experience. Being convicted of a crime can jeopardize a person's job, family, reputation and future. Our legal system offers a number of protections to safeguard the accused's constitutional rights.
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What constitutes a criminal offense in the District is spelled out in the D.C. Code. Generally, a criminal offense will require both an act (or an omission to act) and a mental state - or mens rea. In other words, it is not enough that the government needs to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed some act that is prohibited by law.
The D.C. Rules of Evidence govern the admission of evidence - testimony, documents and tangible objects - in D.C. Superior Court. Evidence is the collective mass of things that, presented before a tribunal in a given dispute, tend to prove or disprove the existence of an alleged fact. Unlike most other jurisdictions, the District of Columbia does not follow the numbering system of the Federal Rules of Evidence.
D.C. Superior Court is located at 500 Indiana Avenue, NW., close to the Judiciary Square metro station on the red line and the Archives/Navy Memorial stop on the green and yellow lines. After the Court was largely closed during the pandemic, the Criminal Division has re-opened for most purposes. Additional information on legal, administrative and procedural issues for D.C. is provided below.
Reviews (11)
Diana Wassel
Jul 22, 2021
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From the moment we hired Mr. Koehler for representation, he has been nothing short of a phenomenal attorney. He will do everything in his power to fight for you with his knowledge and expertise. He truly cares for his clients and will make you feel at ease no matter the circumstance. He is professional, compassionate, and there for you 24/7. Thank you!!!
Edward L.
May 04, 2021
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Mr. Koehler represented me as the petitioner in a DC CPO case, a horrific affair, 9 months of stalking, harassment, threats of violence and extortion. If I could give 10 stars I would. Mr. Koehler is that unique combination of highly knowledgeable and competent, while being incredibly personable. He handled the horrendous twists and turns of my case with such humanity, care and genuine concern for me (and the law), all the while navigating the DC legal system and the process for me with the utmost professionalism.
After winning my case yesterday, I had the best night's sleep I've
After winning my case yesterday, I had the best night's sleep I've
Karen Jacobs Sulek
Apr 11, 2021
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If I could give 10 stars, I would!
Mr. Koehler, I thought you'd like to know that after winning my case yesterday, I had the best night's sleep I've had in months last night. I slept so peacefully and soundly -- like I haven't in a very long time. And, I feel safe and secure, and intensely happy that I don't have to face the prospect of another day wondering what awful things he might do to attempt some form of contact/show his "affection"....It's been the most horrible and unimaginable nightmare. I can't thank you enough for restoring to me a feeling of safety and freedom. My family and loved
Mr. Koehler, I thought you'd like to know that after winning my case yesterday, I had the best night's sleep I've had in months last night. I slept so peacefully and soundly -- like I haven't in a very long time. And, I feel safe and secure, and intensely happy that I don't have to face the prospect of another day wondering what awful things he might do to attempt some form of contact/show his "affection"....It's been the most horrible and unimaginable nightmare. I can't thank you enough for restoring to me a feeling of safety and freedom. My family and loved
Matt Capone
Feb 01, 2021
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Lawyer Koehler was attentive and persistent with getting my case dropped. He and his team worked diligently and effectively communicating and negotiating not a plea deal but a dismissal.
I would like to thank Koehler Law because I had a lot riding on this case and a violation if had plead guilty. He’s definitely worth taking any case.
I would like to thank Koehler Law because I had a lot riding on this case and a violation if had plead guilty. He’s definitely worth taking any case.
Kim F.
Oct 21, 2020
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Bobby Mainville
Sep 10, 2020
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Mr. Koehler is passionate, professional, and truly determined to see your case through. I was referred to Jamison by a colleague of mine and he worked diligently throughout his services. He was very responsive and collaborative which were qualities that I sought out in my representation. I would recommend him to any friend or colleague in search of legal counsel.
James Cruise
Aug 27, 2020
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Mr. Koehler is, as far as I am concerned, the best criminal defense lawyer in D.C. He walked me through things before I hired him, and literally everything he predicted came true. When I brought him on, it was clear that everyone in the courthouse respected him – judges, prosecutors, court clerks. At trial, he tied up a junior prosecutor with the rules of evidence, and he made the police officer look like a lying idiot. It was fun to watch. You almost felt bad for the officer. I was acquitted of all charges. I will be forever grateful to the man. Thank you, Mr. Koehler!
Diana Gearhart
Jun 11, 2020
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I have had the pleasure of knowing Jamie Koehler for a very long time. He conducts his business in a very professional and honest manner. He is very knowledgeable of the law, and will work with you in every possible way. His goal is always for your best outcome. He’s kind, genteel, respectful, thorough, a
go-getter, and reasonable. He is an excellent attorney and provides exceptional service and sound advice. He should be your attorney too!
go-getter, and reasonable. He is an excellent attorney and provides exceptional service and sound advice. He should be your attorney too!
Francisco Foschi
Jun 04, 2020
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I was referred to Mr. Koehler by a friend attorney that said he was the best in the field. He was right, I was very lucky to have Mr. Koehler represented me for a complicated case in Washington D.C. I will never forget the peace of mind feeling when he showed up on a Sunday afternoon and patiently walked me to the process. I will always be grateful to him for his help and because he was able to get my record sponged after a while. I am now a loyal follower of his blog which is a very informative window into the eyes of the legal world in the tri-state area. Kudos to you sir!
Andaleeb 'Andi' Geloo
Oct 11, 2019
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Jamison Koehler is one of the most talented, devoted, compassionate and exceptional attorneys I know. I've referred cases to him in the past and each and every one of my clients shared glowing reviews about his excellent work and their overall experience. He is an asset to the bar and our profession. It is an honor to write this review for my outstanding colleague and friend.
Sean Farrelly
Sep 05, 2019
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I have known Mr. Koehler for several years. He and I have been opposing counsel in a civil protection order case and I have observed him many times represent individuals charged with crimes. He always appears to be extremely knowledgeable, prepared, professional and personable. I strongly recommend him to anyone in need of top notch counsel.
