Seattle DUI Attorney

Defense Against DUI Charges in King County, Washington 

Being charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI) can have a serious impact on your life. People arrested for driving under the influence frequently feel overwhelmed and struggle to comprehend the various legal terms related to their cases. If you have been arrested for driving under the influence, reach out to our experienced Seattle DUI defense lawyer right away.

Common types of DUI cases requiring a Seattle DUI attorney include:

• First Offense
• Multiple DUI
• Felony DUI
• Underage DUI
• Aggravated DUI
• Manslaughter DUI
• Drug DUI
• Boating Under the Influence

Hiring an attorney from Hale Law Enterprises can help ensure you have all the knowledge you need to navigate the Washington court system confidently. We can help you understand your legal rights and options during a free and confidential consultation.

Contact Hale Law Enterprises online or call (206) 207-4776 today to schedule a FREE consultation with our DUI attorney in Seattle!

What Constitutes a DUI in Washington State

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Washington State, governed by strict laws to protect public safety. DUI laws in Washington prohibit operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or any combination of substances that affect a person’s ability to drive safely. 

The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% for drivers aged 21 and older, 0.04% for commercial drivers, and 0.02% for drivers under 21. Washington enforces implied consent laws, meaning drivers automatically consent to a breath or blood test when suspected of DUI. Refusing to take a test can lead to immediate license suspension and additional penalties.

Several factors can affect DUI penalties in Washington State, including:

• High blood alcohol content – A BAC of 0.15% or higher can increase penalties for a DUI conviction.
• Test refusal – Refusing a chemical test can lead to additional consequences.
• Child passenger – Driving with a minor under 16 in the vehicle can result in enhanced penalties.
• Accidents causing harm – Accidents that result in injury or death will typically lead to much more serious DUI consequences.

Enhanced penalties may include longer mandatory jail time, higher fines, and extended license suspension periods. Consulting a drunk driving lawyer is an effective way to examine which factors may influence your case, especially in local courts throughout King County.

Penalties for DUI Convictions in Seattle

In Washington, the penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) vary widely depending on factors such as the number of prior offenses, whether any property damage was caused, and whether anyone was injured or killed.

Generally speaking, first-time DUI offenses in Washington are:

• A minimum fine of $1,000.
• Minimum 90-day driver's license suspension.
• Possible jail sentence of up to 1 year for misdemeanors and three years for felonies.
• Possibility of community service.
• Alcohol/drug abuse evaluation and treatment.

In addition to criminal penalties, the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) may impose:

• Administrative license suspension – A driver’s license can be suspended from 90 days to 4 years depending on the offense and whether a chemical test was refused.
• Requirement to request a hearing – Drivers have 7 days from arrest to request an administrative hearing to contest the license suspension.
• SR-22 insurance – After the suspension period, drivers are often required to carry SR-22 insurance.
• Ignition interlock device installation – Reinstatement may require an ignition interlock device (IID) to be installed in the vehicle.

These requirements and deadlines are set by Washington law and enforced in King County. Retaining a Seattle DUI attorney ensures you meet all administrative obligations while protecting your driving privileges.

Misdemeanor DUI in Washington

In Washington state, a first-time DUI is usually a gross misdemeanor. This charge means that a DUI conviction can result in:

• Up to 365 days in jail.
• A $5,000 fine.
• Repercussions on your driving privileges.

In some cases, your charge could be upgraded to a felony, depending on your previous DUI and criminal traffic-related history. 

Felony DUI in Washington

In Washington, a DUI can be charged as a felony when it is associated with the injury or death of another person, when there are prior convictions for similar offenses (especially with regards to alcohol-related driving offenses), or when the offender had an exceptionally high blood alcohol level.

In addition to legal repercussions, a DUI charge can have severe personal and professional consequences. You may face job loss, higher insurance rates, and damage to your reputation. Our team of experienced DUI defense attorneys will handle your DUI case with dedication and respect, so you can rest assured you are in good hands.

The DUI Court Process in Seattle

The court process for DUI charges in Seattle can feel intimidating for many individuals. Understanding each stage of the process allows you to better prepare and make informed decisions about how to proceed with your defense.

After an arrest for suspected DUI in Seattle, your case will often begin at the Seattle Municipal Court or King County District Court, depending on where the incident occurred. The first appearance is typically the arraignment, where the judge will inform you of the charges and ask for your plea. Bail conditions and restrictions may be set at this point. 

The court will then schedule pretrial hearings, which may address legal motions or evidence issues raised by your drunk driving attorney. Following the pretrial phase, your case may proceed to trial if it is not resolved through a plea agreement or dismissal. 

A DUI lawyer Seattle can review the evidence, challenge law enforcement procedures, and present your defense to a judge or jury. The court also addresses matters such as ignition interlock device orders and probation requirements if there is a conviction.

Here are some key ways a local attorney supports you throughout your case::

• Explaining local court procedures so you know what to expect at each hearing.
• Advocating for fair bail terms and release conditions in front of King County judges.
• Challenging evidence based on state and local police protocols.
• Negotiating with Seattle prosecutors for reduced charges when appropriate.

Each stage of the DUI process is important and can influence both short- and long-term outcomes. With the right legal representation, you are better equipped to face the unique challenges presented in Seattle-area DUI courts.

Understanding DUI Defense Strategies in Seattle

When facing a DUI charge, it's crucial to have a strong defense strategy to protect your rights and mitigate potential consequences. Our experienced Seattle DUI attorneys at Hale Law Enterprises are well-versed in a variety of defense tactics to challenge the prosecution's case and seek a favorable outcome for our clients.

Some common DUI defense strategies include:

• Challenging the legality of the traffic stop – Reviewing the circumstances and whether law enforcement followed required procedures.
• Questioning the accuracy of field sobriety tests and breathalyzer results – Identifying issues that could produce inaccurate or unreliable results.
• Investigating potential violations of your constitutional rights – Ensuring your rights were not violated during the stop, arrest, or questioning.
• Seeking to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully – If evidence was gathered in violation of your rights, your attorney may move to exclude it from the case.
• Negotiating for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options – When the circumstances allow, your attorney may pursue a plea deal or an alternative sentence that limits penalties.

By working with our skilled legal team, you can rest assured that we will explore all possible defense avenues to protect your freedom and future. Contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your DUI case.

Get Legal Help from Our Top DUI Lawyers in Seattle

As an experienced and knowledgeable DUI attorney in Seattle, Attorney Hale can help you navigate the legal process after you are accused of DUI. He can help you understand your options, determine if you are eligible to request a hearing to review your license suspension and determine how best to proceed with your DUI case.

Attorney Matthew T. Hale looks carefully at your case's unique circumstances to build a strong DUI defense on your behalf. The firm has helped thousands of good people charged with DUI and has a strong track record of getting criminal charges successfully reduced or dropped altogether.

Contact us online today at (206) 207-4776 today to let our Seattle DUI defense attorneys fight for you!

Seattle DUI FAQ

What constitutes a DUI charge in Seattle, Washington?

In Seattle, a DUI charge occurs when a driver operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or while impaired by drugs, including marijuana. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, it's 0.02%.

How can a DUI defense attorney assist with my Seattle DUI case?

A DUI defense attorney can challenge the legality of the traffic stop, the accuracy of breathalyzer and field sobriety tests, and negotiate for reduced charges or penalties. They provide essential guidance through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected.

What should I do if my license is suspended after a DUI arrest in Seattle?

If your license is suspended, you have 7 days from your arrest to request a hearing with the Department of Licensing (DOL) to contest the suspension. An attorney can help you navigate this process and work to maintain your driving privileges.

Are plea bargains an option in DUI cases in Seattle?

Yes, plea bargains are possible in Seattle DUI cases. This might involve pleading to a lesser charge, like "negligent driving in the first degree," which involves fewer penalties than a DUI conviction. An experienced attorney can negotiate on your behalf for the best outcome.

What is an ignition interlock device (IID) and when must it be installed?

An IID is a device installed in your vehicle that requires a breath sample before allowing the engine to start. In Washington, an IID may be required as part of DUI penalties, particularly for repeat offenders, and must be installed for a period determined by the court.

Can I refuse a breathalyzer or field sobriety test in Seattle?

While you can refuse, refusal triggers automatic penalties, including license suspension and possible use of refusal against you in court. Knowing the potential consequences of refusal is crucial, and consulting with an attorney can help clarify your rights.

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION