First-Offense DUI Lawyer in Seattle, WA
Protecting Your Future After a First DUI Arrest
Being arrested for a first-time DUI can be a frightening experience. Even a first-time DUI can result in severe fines, driver’s license suspension, and possible jail time. Even being convicted of a misdemeanor criminal offense can result in collateral consequences that make it challenging to find employment, suitable housing, a professional license, and possible deportation for non-citizens.
The most effective way to protect yourself from the potential consequences of a first-time DUI charge and criminal record is to hire an experienced DUI attorney. Contact our law firm today to schedule a free consultation to explore your legal options.
Will I Have to Serve Jail Time for a First-Time DUI?
Washington state law dictates that anyone convicted of a first-time DUI, charged as a gross misdemeanor, must serve a mandatory minimum jail sentence, even if they do not have prior offenses.
If you registered a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08%–0.15%, you could be sentenced to serve 24 hours to 364 days in jail or 15 days of electronic home monitoring. Even so, penalties increase based on your BAC or if you refuse to submit to a breath test. For example, a BAC of 0.15% or greater can result in you having to serve a minimum of 48 hours to 364 days in jail. If convicted, you could also be fined between $990.00 and $5,000.
You can also face a driver’s license suspension, and be forced to install an ignition interlock device (IID), probation, and mandatory alcohol or drug treatment.
Will My Driver’s License Be Suspended for a First-Time DUI Conviction?
One of the most common worries for first-time DUI defendants is whether their driver’s license will be suspended. Under state law, if you are convicted of a first-time DUI, you will be subject to an automatic license suspension.
If your BAC was under 0.15%, your driving privileges will be suspended for 90 days. If your BAC was above 0.15%, your license can be suspended for one year or two years if you refused a breathalyzer or blood test.
Administrative Suspension
Many DUI defendants are unaware that Washington State imposes an automatic driver’s license suspension that generally takes effect 30 days after arrest unless a hearing is requested within seven days. If you fail to request a hearing within seven days of a DUI arrest, your license will automatically be suspended for 90 days to two years.
What is Deferred Prosecution, and Can it Help Me Avoid a Conviction?
One of the programs the state offers first-time DUI defendants is “deferred prosecution,” which allows individuals to avoid a conviction and criminal record by completing a rigorous five-year program. The program focuses on assisting individuals who admit to having an alcohol or drug problem or mental health issues. The first two years of the program focus on approved participants completing an intensive alcohol assessment and treatment program, along with having an ignition interlock device on their vehicles.
Participants must refrain from breaking any other laws, pay all related costs, and use an ignition interlock device for at least one year. Those admitted to the program may use it only once in their lifetime. If you fail to complete the five-year program, the judge may base the decision on the original police report, which can result in an immediate conviction.
What are the Benefits of Hiring an Attorney to Defend Me Against a First-Time DUI?
If you are facing a first-time DUI charge, you must take action immediately. Due to the severe legal consequences that you face, having an attorney on your side is essential.
Representation During a Department of Licensing Hearing
Your attorney can represent you at the Department of Licensing hearing to try to fight the automatic suspension. During this hearing, your attorney can get a first-hand look at the state’s evidence and can use it to build a strong defense case.
An attorney can represent you at the Department of Licensing (DOL) hearing to fight against the immediate suspension of your driver’s license.
Disputing Evidence and Procedural Errors
One of the most considerable advantages of hiring an attorney is their ability to challenge the evidence and procedures involved with your DUI stop and arrest. Suppose the officer lacked probable cause to stop your vehicle, or testing procedures were not followed correctly. In those instances, your attorney can argue that the evidence should be excluded, significantly weakening the state’s case.
Guiding You Through Complex Legal Procedures
Your attorney can guide you through the complex legal procedures that come with a first-time DUI. Examples include meeting critical deadlines and handling all legal paperwork.
Reducing Penalties Through Strategic Negotiation
Depending on the facts, your legal representative may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to have the penalties reduced or dismissed.
Contact The Law Offices of Kevin Trombold, PLLC, today to Get Started on Your Defense Case.
No one likes the prospect of facing criminal charges, especially those that could result in a lengthy license suspension. If you are facing DUI charges, the best solution is to hire an experienced DUI attorney to represent you. Washington state has some of the strictest DUI penalties in the country, so having a qualified attorney on your side is essential to avoiding a criminal conviction.
The Law Offices of Kevin Trombold, PLLC, is a Seattle, Washington, law firm committed to helping clients accused of driving under the influence quickly resolve their legal issues. When you come to us for assistance, our goal is to have your charges dismissed or reduced so you can resume your life.
If you have questions about our legal services or your defense options, contact our law office today at 206-590-7667 to schedule a free consultation.
