It can be a very frightening experience to get arrested and charged with DUI. You may feel like your life is over and that there is little hope. However, it is essential to remember that you are not alone. Many Seattle drivers face DUI charges, and there is help available.

An experienced Seattle DUI attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected. With the right help, you can fight your charges and get your life back on track.

After you've been arrested and charged with DUI, you may have many questions. Here are some answers to common questions about DUI charges.

What is a DUI?

A DUI is a criminal charge for operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You can be charged with DUI in Washington if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08% or higher.

What are the penalties for a DUI?

The penalties for a DUI vary from state to state, but they can include jail time, fines, and losing your driver's license. In Washington, you may also need to install an ignition interlock device in your car after a DUI.

Washington DUI law outlines mandatory minimum penalties that include:

• Minimum jail time of at least 24-48 hours depending on your BAC
• Electronic home monitoring of 15-30 days depending on your BAC
• Jail time maximums
• Fines up to $5,000
• One-year ignition interlock requirement
• Drug and alcohol assessment program
• Five-year probation period
• License suspended for a minimum of 90 days to 1 year depending on BAC

Can I get a DUI if I'm not driving?

You can be charged with DUI even if you're not driving. If you're in physical control of a vehicle (for example, sitting in the driver's seat with the keys in the ignition), you can get charged with DUI.

Can I get a DUI if I'm not drunk?

It is possible to get a DUI even if your BAC is below .08%. If the police officer believes you drove impaired by alcohol or drugs, you can be arrested and charged with DUI. Many people do not feel drunk but have a BAC above the legal limit. Feeling drunk is not a good indication of a BAC level.

What should I do if the police stop me for suspected DUI?

If the police pull you over for DUI, the best thing to do is remain polite and avoid confrontations. You should give the officer your driver's license and registration, but you should not answer any questions about where you're coming from or where you're going. You should politely decline to take a field sobriety or breathalyzer test. Instead, ask for a blood test. These are more accurate and will give better results.

It's important to remember that you have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in court. So, it's best just to stay quiet and call a DUI defense attorney as soon as possible.

What should I do if the police arrest me for DUI?

If the police arrest me for DUI, the best thing to do is to call a DUI defense lawyer. A lawyer can help you understand the charges against you and the possible penalties. A lawyer can also help you build a defense and negotiate with prosecutors.

Do I need a lawyer if the police charge me with DUI?

Talking to a lawyer is always good if you face criminal charges. A lawyer can give you a realistic idea of the charges against you and the possible penalties. A DUI defense attorney can help you build a defense and negotiate with prosecutors.

What are some common defenses to DUI?

Your Seattle DUI defense attorney can use many defenses in a DUI case. Some common defenses include:

• The police officer didn't have probable cause to stop your car.
• The police officer didn't read you your Miranda rights.
• Police officers did not administer the field sobriety test correctly.
• The breathalyzer machine was improperly calibrated.

Can I get my driver's license back after a DUI?

Yes. After your license gets suspended, you must pay a reinstatement fee and complete a DUI education program. The courts may also require an ignition interlock device in your car. Your attorney can seek alternatives for getting your license back.

What is an ignition interlock device?

An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer machine installed in your car. You have to blow into the machine before your vehicle starts. If the machine detects alcohol on your breath, your car will not start.

Can I get my DUI charges dropped?

Getting your DUI charges dropped is possible, but it is difficult. The prosecutor has to prove that you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, and if there are any weaknesses in the case, the prosecutor may be willing to drop the charges. However, it is ultimately up to the prosecutor to decide whether or not to drop the charges.

If you face DUI charges, you should call a lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you understand the charges against you and the potential penalties. A lawyer can also help you build a defense and negotiate with prosecutors.

Contact Our Seattle DUI Defense Lawyers

If you get arrested and charged with DUI, there are ways you can fight back. You can protect your driving record with the right legal help.

At Lewis & Laws, PLLC, we have defended clients in Seattle, Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, and throughout the state of Washington. Contact us today at 206.209.0608 or fill out our confidential contact form. Call us today!