Scanlan Law, PLLC

Washington State and Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

When you’re facing charges and the stakes are high, you need someone who will listen first, take on your problems as their own, and move every mountain to ensure the best possible result.
— Emma C. Scanlan

Emma Scanlan represents clients facing criminal charges in federal and state court. You shouldn’t have to choose between an aggressive strategic defense and a compassionate legal team that listens, collaborates, and clearly explains your options. Emma does both, allowing you to feel heard while taking comfort that a full force defense team is in place to realize the best possible outcome.


I was facing 5 to 10 years in prison, and this matter resolved with me being sentenced to 6 months in-work release. Emma worked my case with care and thoroughly explained every option to me.
— Domestic Violence Charge Client

Emma has a sterling reputation throughout the legal community, handling both high profile cases and discreetly resolved matters. Leveraging solid evidence from thorough investigation and a strategic understanding of complex criminal laws, time and again, Emma overcomes false narratives presented in court or the court of public opinion.

Federal Court Criminal Defense

If you are under investigation or have been charged in federal court, Scanlan Law is ready to lead your defense. Emma Scanlan has decades of experience representing clients facing federal charges.

When the stakes are high in federal court, you may be tried and, if convicted, sentenced under complex advisory federal sentencing guidelines. This is why you can’t just hire any local criminal defense attorney. No matter how daunting federal charges seem, you’re in good hands with Emma Scanlan.

Emma represented me in a challenging situation and got me a very favorable outcome considering the difficult circumstances. She was frank, honest and to-the-point, never telling me what I wanted to hear or wasting my time. I’m glad she was able to represent me. She’s extremely capable; as the judge himself stated, her work was “excellent lawyering.
— 2023 Client

Areas of Expertise


  • Arson

  • Assault

  • Bank Fraud

  • Cybercrime

  • Domestic Violence

  • Federal Drug Offenses

  • Firearms Charges / 18 U.S.C. 924c

  • Fraud

  • Immigration Offenses

    • Illegal Entry, Overstaying Visa, etc.

  • Juveniles Charged as Adults

  • Murder / Homicide

  • Robbery/Burglary

  • Selling Counterfeit Goods

  • White Collar Crime

  • Wire Fraud


Even if you have not been charged, you are entitled to have an attorney at your side if…

  •  Someone called the police and accused you of a crime – or is threatening to do so

  • You were arrested, but charges have not yet been filed

  • Police asked you to submit to an interview (interrogation)

  • You have questions about potential criminal liability

  • Police are investigating your company or colleagues and might be calling you next

  • You are the subject of an internal investigation and are being encouraged to cooperate.

In these times, you need a criminal defense attorney in your corner who is familiar with the pitfalls; this can be the difference between getting charged with a crime or not.


Emma and her outstanding investigator were able to bring forth evidence, statements and strong common sense information to the prosecutor’s office that they did not have a case and their attempts for a conviction were futile.
— 2018 Client