Receiving a DUI in Washington is a daunting experience you won’t soon forget. A DUI conviction carries severe consequences that stay with you for the rest of your life. This criminal conviction can set you back when you are applying to jobs or even looking for housing. For a chance at having your charges dropped or reduced, you should speak with a seasoned Washington DUI attorney. At Murphy’s Law Offices, these are some of the most frequently asked questions on the subject of DUI.
I was arrested for DUI, but the officer did not say when I have to be in court. Was I officially charged?
Yes. Most police agencies do not directly file DUI charges and they do not provide individuals with their court dates. Instead, they provide a Driver’s Hearing Request Form from the Department of Licensing (DOL). Your case is then forwarded to the local prosecuting authority for the charges to be filed. Expect to receive a court notice in the mail.
What does it mean to have a hole in my driver’s license? Is my Washington license still valid?
If you have been arrested for DUI in Washington and you provided a breath sample over the per se limit of 0.08, or you are a minor under 21 and blew over 0.02, or refused a breath test at the time of the stop, the state starts the process of rescinding your driving privileges either through license suspension or revocation. To get your privileges reinstated you must request a hearing to contest the citation within 20 days.
My breath alcohol/ blood alcohol measurement was below the legal limit. Could I still be in trouble with the law?
It is possible to receive a DUI for blowing under the 0.08 legal limit. In Washington, police and prosecuting attorneys do proceed with DUI charges if they believe there is enough evidence to show that you were impaired while driving, even if you did not meet that limit. If they can show your driving ability was measurably affected due to alcohol, you could be charged and convicted.
Will my DUI Case go to Court?
The sixth amendment may grant you the right to a trial by your peers, but that doesn’t mean every DUI case goes to trial. In most cases, those accused of DUI plea bargain to have their charges reduced. To completely be free of DUI charges, your only option is to align yourself with a strong attorney who focuses on DUI in Washington State.
Murphy’s Law Offices is a Washington criminal defense firm serving King and Pierce Counties, and surrounding areas. Attorney Dan Murphy has years of experiencing fighting DUI in Tacoma and neighboring cities. Call +1 (253) 312-6122 for a free legal consultation.
