DUI Lawyers in King County

Getting arrested for a DUI can be both frightening and embarrassing. This type of arrest can also be the source of serious stress and worry. In fact, several people who are arrested for driving while under the influence are typically good citizens who usually abide by the law, and who have never been involved with the legal system. But suddenly, you find yourself in handcuffs and you’re facing serious consequences, such as the loss of your driver’s license, the loss of your job, higher insurance rates, fines and even jail time!

You need an experienced King County DUI lawyer who can fight for justice on your behalf! Whether your case involves alcohol, prescription drugs or illicit drugs, you can trust your case to the experienced DUI attorneys with The Law Offices of Kevin Trombold, LLC. We have a legal team that handles both felony and misdemeanor DUI cases, along with a range of other criminal offenses.

Our goal is to keep you informed and involved throughout the legal process while leveraging a winning strategy to bring about the best possible outcome for your case. An experienced DUI attorney can effectively minimize any consequences that you may face.

Common Questions After a DUI Arrest in King County, Washington

Have you been arrested for driving under the influence in King County? DUI attorneys get lots of questions and we believe that it’s critical to overcome these issues. Understanding the process and knowing what to expect can relieve some of the stress and fear that’s associated with your legal case. Let’s go over some of the most common concerns and questions that we address here at The Law Offices of Kevin Trombold, LLC.

What is the Legal Limit for Drinking and Driving in Washington State?

In Washington, a driver could be subject to arrest if they’re found to have a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher. The BAC figures are based on a breath sample of 210 liters.

Notably, there are cases where a driver could be arrested and penalties despite having a lower BAC. This is the case for a driver who is younger than 21, as these drivers may be subject to arrest if they are found to have a BAC of .02% or higher. There are also restrictions for commercial drivers, as the limit is .04%.

Of course, blood alcohol concentration only applies to alcohol. Different tests are administered for other substances, such as illicit drugs.

Drivers who have a BAC of .15% or higher could be subject to more severe penalties.

What is the Relevance of Washington’s DUI Per Se Laws?

Washington’s DUI laws are per se laws, meaning that any driver with a BAC of .08% is subject to arrest, regardless of their performance in field sobriety tests and their actual degree of impairment.

Is it Illegal to Drive Under the Influence of Marijuana in Washington State?

In Washington, marijuana is now legal; however, just like alcohol, there will be limits. The threshold for being “under the influence” is set at 5 nanograms of THC per 1 milliliter of blood.

What Are the Potential Penalties for DUI?

The DUI penalties vary according to many factors such as whether your case was charged as a felony or a misdemeanor, whether you have a prior record and whether your case involves any elements that justify some of the more serious penalties.

The penalties can include probation, jail time, monetary fines, enrollment in a treatment program, and driver’s license suspension or revocation. You may also face higher insurance rates, fees to reinstate your license and ignition interlock device-related fees in some cases.

Can I Be Arrested for DUI After Taking My Prescription as Directed by My Doctor?

Unfortunately, there are some cases where a driver is arrested after taking their prescription medication as directed by their physician. Seniors and individuals with a chronic illness or serious injury are often involved in this type of arrest.

Washington’s laws do allow for a DUI arrest, even in the case of a driver who has taken medication just like instructed to by a doctor. If the police officer believes the driver exhibits signs of impairment, then this can serve as grounds for arrest.

Will I Definitely Lose My License Because of a DUI Arrest?

Not necessarily. In fact, our Kings County DUI attorneys are committed to helping you to maintain your driving privileges.

Following a DUI arrest, the driver typically receives a notice of suspension. The Department of Licensing (DOL) oversees license-related penalties, also called administrative penalties.

The suspension typically goes into effect 60 days following the individual’s arrest. But it is possible to file a request for an administrative hearing where you can present your case and seek to be cleared of wrong-doing (although this only applies to the DOL; criminal proceedings are separate.)

Our DUI lawyers can help represent you in this proceeding. In addition to legal fees, there is typically a $375 fee that is non-refundable to request a hearing, but it is possible to request a fee waiver.

A DUI license suspension can span from 90 days to four years. In the case of a DUI conviction, the suspension typically begins 45 days after the courts report the case outcome to the Department of Licensing.

Can I Get a Restricted License?

Washington does offer a restricted driver’s license to individuals facing the loss of their license. This is ideal for those who need a vehicle to get to work, for instance.

Sometimes called an ignition interlock driver’s license, the driver is required to install a special ignition interlock device which administers BAC testing when you attempt to start the ignition. You must pass this test in order to operate the vehicle. Drivers must also pay a fee and secure SR-22 insurance.

Our attorneys can help guide you through the process of seeking an ignition interlock license.

What Happens if I Refuse a Chemical Test?

Drivers who refuse to take a chemical test could be served with a license suspension for a maximum of two years, plus a maximum of a $5,000 fine, and even up to 364 days in jail.

Each case is unique, though and our attorneys will work hard to minimize any penalties that you may face.

Choose a Top King County DUI Attorney to Handle Your Case

A DUI arrest can be embarrassing and very stressful, particularly if you need to drive in order to get to work and/or care for yourself, along with your family.

We understand how challenging this sort of situation can be for our clients and it is our goal to bring the best result out of your case. We are eager to assist you with putting this challenging experience behind you, so you can move forward with hope and optimism.

The attorneys with The Law Offices of Kevin Trombold, LLC are here to go over your case in a no-cost and confidential consultation. Give us a call at 206-590-7667.