Arrested for DUI in Washington? What Happens Next?

Being arrested for a DUI in Washington is a stressful and uncertain experience. The penalties are serious, and the legal process can be overwhelming. But you don’t have to face this alone.

At LaCross & Murphy, we provide legal representation for clients facing DUI charges in Kitsap County. We understand what’s at stake and are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of your case to work toward the best possible outcome.

The DUI Arrest Process in Washington

After being arrested for DUI, it’s important to understand what happens next. The process can be broken down into several key steps:

1. The Traffic Stop

Most DUI cases begin with a traffic stop. Law enforcement may pull you over for:

Traffic violations (speeding, running a red light, etc.).
Erratic driving (swerving, inconsistent speed, etc.).
Sobriety checkpoints (in some areas).

During the stop, the officer will look for signs of impairment, such as slurred speech, red eyes, or the smell of alcohol.

2. Field Sobriety and BAC Tests

If the officer suspects you’re under the influence, they may administer:

Field sobriety tests: These physical tasks assess balance, coordination, and attention.
Breathalyzer tests: Used to measure your blood alcohol concentration (BAC).

Refusing to take these tests can lead to automatic penalties, including license suspension, under Washington’s implied consent law.

3. Arrest and Booking

If the officer determines there’s probable cause, you’ll be arrested and taken to the police station for booking. This process includes fingerprinting, photographs, and possibly another breathalyzer or blood test.

Immediate Consequences of a DUI Arrest

1. License Suspension

In Washington, a DUI arrest triggers an automatic license suspension by the Department of Licensing (DOL), even if you haven’t been convicted yet. But you do have the option to request a hearing to contest the suspension, as long as it is requested within 7 days of your arrest.

2. Release Conditions

Depending on the circumstances of your arrest, you may be released on your own recognizance, or the court may set conditions, such as:

Posting bail.
Abstaining from alcohol or drugs.
Installing an ignition interlock device on your vehicle.

Failing to meet these conditions can result in additional penalties.

What to Expect in Court

1. Arraignment

Your first court appearance, known as an arraignment, typically happens within a few days of your arrest. During this hearing, the judge will:

Formally read the charges against you.
Ask for your plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest).
Set bail or other conditions of release.

2. Pre-Trial Hearings

These hearings allow your attorney and the prosecution to exchange evidence, negotiate plea deals, or prepare for trial.

3. Trial (If Necessary)

If your case goes to trial, a judge or jury will determine your guilt or innocence. DUI trials often involve evidence such as:

Police reports.
BAC test results.
Witness testimony.

Navigating the court system is complex, but having a knowledgeable attorney on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Potential Penalties for a DUI Conviction

Washington has some of the toughest DUI laws in the country. Even a first offense carries severe penalties, including:

Jail time: 24 hours to 364 days.
Fines: Up to $5,000.
License suspension: 90 days to 2 years.
Alcohol treatment programs: Court-mandated evaluations and treatment.
Ignition interlock device: Required for a minimum of one year.

Penalties increase significantly for repeat offenses, high BAC levels, or if minors were in the vehicle.

Defending Against a DUI Charge

While a DUI arrest is serious, it doesn’t automatically mean a conviction. Common defense strategies include:

Challenging the legality of the traffic stop.
Identifying errors in BAC testing or field sobriety procedures.
Examining police conduct for violations of your rights.

At LaCross & Murphy, we thoroughly investigate every case to identify opportunities to reduce or dismiss charges.

Why You Need a DUI Defense Attorney

Dealing with a DUI charge alone can lead to costly mistakes. Here’s how a defense attorney can help:

Understand your rights: Protecting you from unlawful police conduct or procedural errors.
Challenge evidence: Identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Negotiate outcomes: Working to reduce charges or penalties through negotiations.
Navigate the process: Ensuring you meet deadlines and avoid additional penalties.

Our team at LaCross & Murphy has a deep understanding of Washington’s DUI laws and knows how to build a strong defense tailored to your case.

Steps to Take After a DUI Arrest

If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Washington, here’s what you can do to protect yourself:

Request a DOL hearing: You have 7 days to contest your license suspension.
Document everything: Write down what happened before, during, and after your arrest.
Avoid discussing your case: Don’t talk to the police or anyone else about the details without an attorney.
Hire a defense attorney: The sooner you get legal representation, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.

Contact LaCross & Murphy for DUI Defense

A DUI arrest is stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone. At LaCross & Murphy, we understand how overwhelming this process can be, and we’re here to provide empathetic yet serious representation.

We’ll guide you through every step, from contesting your license suspension to building a strong defense in court. Let us help you protect your rights and your future.

Call us today at (360) 447-9365 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.

Facing a DUI charge doesn’t have to derail your life. With the right legal representation, you can take steps to move forward and work toward a better outcome. Reach out to us today to get started.