Defending against poaching, unlicensed hunting, and illegal method charges in Washington State.
Free Case EvaluationThe Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer provides defense for hunting violation charges in Washington State. Hunting violations range from misdemeanors to Class C felonies, and carry consequences including fines, jail time, license revocation, and equipment seizure.
Penalties Extend Beyond Fines
Hunting violations can result in license revocation, seizure of equipment including firearms and vehicles, mandatory restitution for the value of unlawfully taken wildlife, and a criminal record. For serious offenses, penalties can include years in prison and fines in the thousands of dollars.
| Offense | Definition | Classification | Maximum Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unlawful Hunting of Wild Animals - 1st Degree | Exceeding bag limits by twice the established amount | Gross Misdemeanor | 364 days / $5,000 |
| Unlawful Hunting of Wild Animals - 2nd Degree | Taking/possessing wildlife without required licenses or violating hunting rules | Misdemeanor | 90 days / $1,000 |
| Unlawful Hunting of Big Game - 1st Degree | Taking three or more big game animals or repeat offense within five years | Class C Felony | 5 years / $10,000 |
| Unlawful Hunting of Big Game - 2nd Degree | Taking/possessing big game without proper permits or violating regulations | Gross Misdemeanor | 364 days / $5,000 |
| Unlawful Hunting of Wild Birds - 1st Degree | Exceeding bird bag limits by twice the established amount | Gross Misdemeanor | 364 days / $5,000 |
| Unlawful Hunting of Wild Birds - 2nd Degree | Taking wild birds without license or violating regulations | Misdemeanor | 90 days / $1,000 |
| Unlawful Recreational Fishing - 1st Degree | Exceeding catch limits, fishing in closed areas, or using prohibited methods | Gross Misdemeanor | 364 days / $5,000 |
| Unlawful Recreational Fishing - 2nd Degree | Minor fishing regulation violations | Misdemeanor | 90 days / $1,000 |
In addition to criminal penalties, courts order restitution based on the value of illegally taken wildlife. These amounts are per animal:
| Species | Restitution Per Animal |
|---|---|
| Deer, Elk, Bear, Cougar | $2,000 |
| Moose, Pronghorn, Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat | $4,000 |
| Four-point Deer or Five-point Elk | $6,000 |
| Woodland Caribou or Grizzly Bear | $12,000 |
| Mountain Sheep (3/4 curl or larger) | $12,000 |
If you are facing hunting violation charges in Washington, contact McAleer Law today for a consultation. We understand the regulations and will work to protect your rights, your record, and your hunting privileges.
Don’t face legal challenges alone. Our experienced attorneys are ready to fight for you.