Seattle DUI lawyer 

Aggressive 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. Hiring an attorney from Hale Law Enterprises can help ensure you have all the knowledge you need to navigate the Washington court system confidently.

If you have been arrested for driving under the influence, reach out to our experienced Seattle DUI attorney right away. 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 lawyer in Seattle!

Experienced Seattle DUI Defense Attorney Ready to Assist You

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 if anyone was injured or killed.

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

• A minimum fine of $1,000
• Minimum 90 days 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

Distinguishing Misdemeanor and Felony 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. 

Criteria for Felony DUI Charges in Washington State

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. We understand the gravity of these potential outcomes and will do everything to ensure your rights are protected throughout the process. 

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.

Understanding DUI Defense Strategies

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
• Questioning the accuracy of field sobriety tests and breathalyzer results
• Investigating potential violations of your constitutional rights
• Seeking to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully
• Negotiating for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options

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.

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 20 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.

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