Why State Lines Matter For DUIs

A weekend trip to Portland may feel innocuous, but if you’re a Washington resident and you get stopped for a DUI on the wrong side of the Columbia River, you may be in hot water. The same goes for residents of other states who get pulled over by a police officer from a Washington state jurisdiction.

Though crossing state lines typically doesn't seem like a big deal, especially for drivers in Washington who regularly conduct business in Idaho or Oregon, when it comes to DUI laws, where you’re stopped can dramatically shift the outcome.

How States Work Together

Every state has its own laws, but because motorists cross state lines so frequently, neighboring states like Oregon and Washington or Idaho and Washington engage in agreements about enforcement. Called the Driver License Compact, this agreement facilitates prosecution of traffic violations. Washington, Oregon, and Idaho are all members.

The Compact stipulates that a driver can only be charged with a violation if their home state also has a law on the books for that violation. However, every state has laws about driving under the influence, which means if you’re stopped in Oregon, you may be tried in Washington.

The Washington Department of Licensing can't suspend an out-of-state driver's license because it is considered to be the property of another state—however, they can suspend a person’s driving privileges within the state and will notify the licensing state of DUI charges through the Compact.

In most cases, your home state will revoke your driving privileges if you are charged and convicted of DUI in another state.

Where To Get Representation

As with all DUIs, it’s important to retain counsel immediately and refrain from speaking to police or other officers of the court without a lawyer present. But if you’ve been stopped in another state, where should you find a lawyer?

Not only are motorists subject to drunk driving laws and penalties from the state in which they received the DUI, but they are also expected to deal with the repercussions in their home state, as well.

Which means it’s a good idea to retain counsel that is convenient for you, whether you live in the state where you were stopped or were just visiting. That said, having a lawyer in the state where you were stopped can also be extremely valuable.

A DUI charge in another state will likely require the driver to appear at court in the state where the DUI arrest occurred. Having an experienced DUI defense lawyer who can handle your out of state charges will be very valuable.

Regardless of where you’re stopped or what you’re stopped for, though, it’s important to retain counsel as soon as possible. The best way to avoid losing your license is to get a good lawyer on your side.

If You’ve Been Charged with a DUI in Any State, Contact the Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers at Baker, Lewis, Schwisow & Laws

The expert defense team at Baker, Lewis, Schwisow & Laws, PLLC vigorously defend the rights of individuals facing a multitude of charges in Seattle, Bellevue, and Kirkland. Contact us today at 206.209.0608 or fill out our online contact form to get more information or to get a free case review!