DUI Law in Seattle, WA
What Is a DUI?
DUI, which refers to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, is a criminal offense that can lead to weighty consequences. Also known as DWI, the process of going to court to face either conviction or exoneration can change the course of your life forever.
Learn more about your DUI law defense options below, and then talk to a local attorney in Seattle, Washington who will help you in this delicate situation. You don’t have to stare down consequences alone. You can take wise steps today to protect your interests.
Possible Consequences of a Seattle, Washington DUI Conviction
Where you live, the severity of the incident, and your criminal record determine the sentencing for a DUI. The punishments can drastically increase if you have had previous DUIs, so be mindful of that. If this is your first DUI, do not go at it alone and risk costly mistakes. Get a Seattle law firm on your side to fight for you and your rights.
Paying Fines
If convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Seattle, Washington, you can count on fines being a part of your sentencing. The Washington State Licensing Department lists a first offense DUI as a gross misdemeanor, with a minimum fine of $866. The maximum fine you could pay for a first offense is $5,000.
However, other factors can drastically increase the amount you must pay, including:
- Any damage to property while driving under the influence
- If someone suffered injuries as a result of your intoxicated driving
- Cases that include child endangerment
- Any court costs associated with your case
Jail Time
Jail time is mandatory, even for first-time offenders in Seattle. If this is your first DUI offense, you may only have to face a day or two in prison. But if you have previous convictions for DUIs, you can be sentenced to several months or years, depending on the nature of the crime. Know that some circumstances can add even more time in a cell, including injury to other people while driving under the influence.
Probation
If you do not face jail time, you will likely be on probation, with the sentencing judge determining the duration. You will pay monthly fees, and you cannot commit any more criminal offenses, including traffic violations. If you violate the terms of your probation, count on facing time behind bars.
Probationary periods for Seattle residents come with certain responsibilities. You will be assigned a probation officer and be expected to meet with this officer on a regular basis. Your probation officer may make surprise visits to inspect your residence, and request you to submit to random drug tests. Failure to comply with these requests will almost certainly result in jail time. Seattle residents under probation are also expected to pay all fines, complete a DUI victim’s panel, and commit no further alcohol related violations. There is a Probation Office located in the Seattle Municipal Courthouse.
Drug and Alcohol Education Program
Following a Seattle DUI sentencing, the law states you must complete a drug and alcohol education program. This will teach you about the dangers of driving under the influence. These programs cost more fees besides the legal costs you already have to pay.
The City Council of Seattle mandates that you complete substance abuse education training before your license can be reinstated. Classes generally range between 10 and 20 hours. You may also be required to participate in a DUI victim’s impact panel, listening to citizens who’ve lost parts of their lives or loved ones to drunk driving.
The education programs also include a DUI evaluation. An evaluator asks you questions about how alcohol and drugs affect your life. If they believe that you are dependent, you may have to enter a substance abuse treatment program.
Suspension or Loss of License
No matter where you may face a DUI conviction, you have to undergo a license suspension period, at the very least. If it is your first DUI, you may have a license suspension for a few months while you go through probation and the drug and alcohol education program.
If this is not your first DUI, you may have your license suspended for much longer, or you could have it taken from you permanently.
What Should You Do When Charged With a DUI in Seattle, Washington?
If you’re facing a felony DUI charge, you must take the following steps to protect yourself:
Step 1: Contact an Attorney Familiar With DUI Law
Immediately following your DUI arrest, you need to contact an experienced Seattle DUI attorney. Your attorney can help prepare for your arraignment and prepare a defense to vindicate yourself or reduce the sentencing.
Step 2: Learn About Your Local DUI Laws
Seattle, Washington has unique laws for DUI or DWI charges. Your lawyer will work with you to help you better understand your state’s laws on driving while intoxicated. It is critical to understand what charges you face and the potential outcomes of your case.
Step 3: Request a DMV Hearing
You or your attorney should request a hearing as soon as possible following your arrest. In Seattle, Washington you only have so much time to ask for a DMV hearing to keep your license until your court appearance. If you do not request a hearing, prepare for a license suspension.
To request a hearing with the Seattle Department of Licensing, a resident must submit the request in writing 10 days from the day of the arrest. You can submit this form by mail, but also online by using a credit card to pay the $375 filing fee.
Step 4: Prepare for Court Appearance
You and your attorney will prepare for your appearance and arraignment in Seattle. If you plead “not guilty,” your DUI defense attorney represents you in court, and a judge and jury oversee the DUI law case.
Step 5: Receive Sentencing or Exoneration
You will either be “not guilty” of the charges brought against you and walk free, or you will receive sentencing for a guilty verdict.
Work with an Experienced Local DUI Lawyer in Seattle, Washington
Should you ever find yourself charged with a DUI, you need to work with an experienced Seattle, Washington lawyer who can stand up for you in court. You cannot clear your name of the charges or reduce the consequences without help. Your life and future depend on having great legal representation during your DUI case. Contact an attorney near you today. We can even help you connect with legal help across Washington state lines.
Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in your area!
