DUI charges in Washington State are a very serious matter. Even first-time convictions can result in jail time and a significant loss of driving privileges.
Experienced DUI Representation
Our firm aggressively represents people in criminal and administrative hearings resulting from DUI arrests. In each case we handle, we pursue the best possible result that protects your freedom as well as your driver's license. Blair & Kim has represented hundreds of traffic cases (most significantly in DUI trials) as a criminal defense lawyer and former prosecutor in King County, Yakima County and Thurston County.
About the Trial Process
After you are pulled over for DUI, the arresting officer will forward your information to the city or county prosecutor, who will file the charges.
The court case begins with your arraignment. At that time, a judge will set the conditions of your release and the bail amount.
A series of court dates will follow, including a pre-trial hearing, a motions hearing and a readiness hearing. It is during this pre-trial period that Blair & Kim's negotiating skills are critical in determining whether you are able to avoid trial, whether your case can be negotiated to a much lesser charge, or whether your can may be dismissed.
Deferred Prosecution
Deferred prosecution is a program that allows a person suffering from alcoholism, drug addiction or a mental health issue to attend through a treatment program rather than being prosecuted.
» Learn about Deferred Prosecution
“When we first went to Blair & Kim, we were feeling very unsure of our rights and what to expect. They listened effectively, gave us their full attention, and provided excellent guidance.”
Local DUI Information
» Bellevue DUI Lawyer
» Everett DUI Lawyer
» Seattle DUI Lawyer
» Tacoma DUI Lawyer |
 |
Washington's DUI Laws
In 1999, Washington State lowered the legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) driving limit to .08. Each year, more 25,000 people are charged with DUI in Washington.
» Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Calculator
If you do not request a hearing within 20 days, your license will be automatically suspended for 90 days. If you refused a breath test and fail to request a hearing within 20 days, your license will be suspended for one year.
» Washington's DUI Civil Penalties
» Washington's DUI Criminal Penalties
About DUI Charges
Washington State's DUI penalties are among the most severe in the the country. Convictions may result in jail time (up to four months), driver's license suspensions (up to four years), and the use of a vehicle ignition interlock device.
As of January 1, 2009, if your license is suspended due to your DUI, you will be eligible to receive a Ignition Interlock License. This license permits you to drive even though your license is suspended. For more information, visit the Washington Department of Licensing:
» Ignition Interlock License
» WA Licensing Information on DUIs
A BAC of .15 or below will typically result in one day of jail time. More than .15 will typically result in two days of jail time. In addition to the possibility of jail, a first time offense can result in a significant loss of driving privileges.
Other DUI penalties include the installation of an ignition interlock device (up to one year), an alcohol evaluation, and up to five years of probation.
DUI convictions are permanent and can never be "vacated" from one's record. These penalties can result not only in the loss of liberty, but also interfere with your ability to work and live up to family responsibilities.
Commercial Drivers
The Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level of a commercial driver may not exceed .04 while they are on driving a commercial vehicle or .08 while driving a non-commercial vehicle. Any conviction for a commercial driver involving the operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or any drug will result in a suspension of their commercial license for at least one year. If driving is your livelihood, don't be forced to take a year off the job. Securing effective legal representation may be your best hope to avoid suspension.
Minor in Possession (MIP)
A "minor in possession" charge applies to any person aged 13–17 who is convicted of possession of alcohol or drugs, illegal possession of a firearm while in a vehicle, or commits any offense while armed with a firearm in which a motor vehicle served an integral function.
» WA Licensing Information on MIP
|
