DUI Defense Lawyers in Seattle: Protecting Your Rights & Your License

Driving under the influence (DUI) comes with significant consequences in Washington. The criminal penalties can include jail time, probation, and heavy fines—but it doesn’t end there. You will also face administrative consequences, such as a suspension of your driver’s license or a mandatory ignition interlock device requirement.

Incredibly, even if your criminal charge is dismissed, you may still face administrative penalties.

At the Seattle law firm of JRC Practice, PLLC, our skilled DUI defense attorneys work hard to combat all aspects of your charge or arrest. With extensive experience in both alcohol-related and marijuana-related DUI charges, you can count on us to guide you through traffic offenses with skill and compassion.

“Jesse is very well thought of and well respected in the legal community.”

— Endorsement from attorney David Jolly on Avvo.com

Understanding the Basic Process

Most DUI stops begin with a standard traffic infraction, such as speeding or expired tabs. If an officer suspects alcohol or drug use, the process typically unfolds as follows:

1. Field Sobriety Tests: The officer may request that you perform roadside physical or cognitive tests. These tests are voluntary—you are not legally required to perform them.

2. Arrest & Transport: If the officer determines there is probable cause, you will be placed under arrest and taken to a police station.

3. Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Test: You will be requested to take an official BAC breath or blood test. Whether you take this test or refuse it, there are major legal implications.

Mandatory Jail Time for Repeat Offenses

If you have a “prior offense” on your record within the last seven years, a new DUI conviction triggers harsh mandatory minimum jail sentences:

• 30 Days Mandatory Jail Time if:

  • No BAC test was offered.

  • You took the test and scored between .08 and .149.

• 45 Days Mandatory Jail Time if:

  • You took the test and scored .15 or higher.

  • You refused to take the BAC test.

Note: These mandatory minimums apply even if your previous charge was reduced (e.g., to reckless or negligent driving) or if you completed a deferred prosecution program.

Driver’s License Suspension Sanctions

The Department of Licensing (DOL) administrative process is completely separate from your criminal court case:

• BAC Result of .08+: Triggers an automatic 90-day license suspension.

• Test Refusal: Triggers a 1-year license suspension.

• 20-Day Hearing Deadline: You have 20 days from the date of arrest to request an administrative hearing to challenge your suspension (requires a $375 nonrefundable fee).

Don’t Wait — Get a Free Consultation Today

Our attorneys are intimately familiar with the complex web of Washington DUI statutes. We will thoroughly investigate your case to determine whether:

• Law enforcement had valid probable cause for the traffic stop.

• Search and seizure procedures were conducted lawfully.

• Roadside and station breath test evidence can be challenged or suppressed in court.