First-Time DUI in Seattle

Lawyers Helping Seattle Residents Defend Against Drunk Driving Charges

Washington has some of the harshest DUI laws in the country. Even if you are being charged with a first-time offense, it can be important to consult an experienced Seattle DUI attorney following an arrest for drunk or drugged driving. The sentence for subsequent DUI convictions will be harsher if you have already been convicted of one DUI. It is important to protect your future by retaining a lawyer who understands all your options and can help you develop a strong defense strategy. A DUI is considered a first-time DUI if you haven’t had any prior DUI convictions within the last seven years.

First-Time DUI

In Washington, it is unlawful to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You can be convicted of a first-time DUI in several situations. First, you can be convicted if you drove while impaired by drugs or alcohol such that your ability to drive was reduced in any meaningful degree. Second, you can be convicted if you’re caught operating a motor vehicle while you have a blood alcohol concentration of .08% or more. This is a per se DUI. Third, you can be convicted of a first-time DUI if you’re caught with five nanograms or more of THC per mililiter of blood, which is a per se marijuana DUI.

Generally, under Washington DUI law, the lowest penalties are imposed in connection with impairment DUIs and situations in which drivers are caught with a blood alcohol content that is under .15%. There are harsher consequences when a driver is caught with a .15% BAC or higher, even if it is a first offense.

Consequences for First-Time DUI

You may face both administrative and criminal penalties for a first-time DUI. The Washington State Department of Licensing imposes administrative penalties. Some of the penalties may be imposed as a result of being arrested for a DUI, even if you aren’t convicted in court. If you are found to be driving with a BAC of at least .08% or you meet the 5 nanograms of marijuana threshold, you will face a 90-day administrative license suspension. If you refused chemical testing, you may face one year of your license being administratively suspended.