DUI Attorney in Kennewick, Washington

DUI Charges in Washington

According to Washington State DUI laws, a person is prohibited from operating or being in actual physical control of a motor vehicle:

• While under the influence of cannabis, intoxicating liquor, or any drug
• With a blood alcohol content (BAC) of at least 0.08%
• With a THC concentration of at least 5.00 nanograms per milliliter of blood

If you have been arrested and charged with a drunk driving offense in Washington State, you need to reach out to a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer right away. Your defense counsel can educate you about your rights and options regarding DUI tests when pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving and help determine your best defenses.

DUI Tests & Your Rights

In Washington State, a police officer may stop your vehicle on reasonable suspicion of impaired driving and request a DUI test—a field sobriety test or a chemical test. Under state laws, field sobriety testing is strictly voluntary. You're not required to submit to it, and there are no consequences for refusing.

In contrast, the implied consent law in Washington State indicates that any licensed motorist within the state is deemed to have inherently agreed to submit to a chemical test—a blood or breath test—based on the officer's lawful request. Therefore, refusing to take a blood or breath test may lead to license revocation and other enhanced penalties.

Possible Penalties

The ramifications of a DUI charge in Washington State can be far-reaching. Depending on your number of prior convictions and other aggravating circumstances, the possible penalties and consequences of a DUI conviction include:

• Huge fines and court fees
• Jail time
• Probation
• License suspension or revocation
• Community service
• An ignition interlock device
• Mandatory attendance of substance abuse education and prevention programs

Other consequences may include:

• A criminal record/history
• Ineligibility to obtain certain financial loans
• Increased difficulty in getting government assistance and public benefits
• Increased auto insurance premiums
• Loss of your rights to own, possess, or carry firearms
• Increased difficulty in securing employment or housing opportunities
• Deterioration of professional relationships
• Loss of scholarships or university acceptance

A skilled Washington State DUI defense attorney can fight vigorously to uphold your legal rights and help you avoid the devastating punishment of a criminal conviction.

Ignition Interlock Program

Following a DUI conviction in Washington State, the person may be required to use a mandatory ignition interlock device. The ignition interlock device (IID) is a small, handheld breathalyzer or breath-test machine that is connected to a car's ignition system to prevent the driver from starting the vehicle after consuming alcohol. Once the IID has been installed, you must breathe into the device before starting your car. The court will decide how long you will need an IID.

Get Trusted Legal Action Today

A Washington State DUI charge can have significant long-term consequences on your quality of life and your future opportunities. Defending your drunk driving accusation without experienced representation could increase your risk of suffering the maximum punishment. When facing DUI charges, you need to hire a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney for trusted legal advocacy.

Attorney Nicholas George has devoted his career to offering outstanding legal services and defending individuals wrongfully arrested for driving under the influence. Using his extensive knowledge, he can help you navigate the Washington State criminal justice system and represent you in every phase of the legal process.