First Time DUIs are Still Serious

Many people believe that first-time DUI charges are not that serious. However, even one DUI on your driving record can have long-lasting and severe consequences. It is important to understand how these consequences will affect your life and your future. That way you can choose to fight these charges seriously from the start. At Lewis & Laws, PLLC, we know how to defend against serious DUI charges from the very beginning and can protect your driving record.

How serious are first time DUI arrests?

While first time DUI offenses are typically a gross misdemeanor crime, they come with stiff penalties and consequences, including mandatory jail time and the loss of your driver’s license. In fact, the judge could impose a sentence of up to 364 days in jail and up to $5,000 in fines. There are minimum penalties as well, depending on your BAC levels. So even if you do not get the maximum sentencing, you will still face the following:

BAC level of less than .15%

• 24 hours consecutive jail time or 15 days electric home monitoring
• Fines between $823 and $5,000
• 90 days driver’s license suspension
• One year ignition interlock device requirement
• Drug and alcohol assessment program
• Five years probation

BAC level of .15% or higher

• 48 hours consecutive jail time or 30 days electric home monitoring
• Fines between $1,015 and $5,000
• 1-2 years driver’s license suspension
• One year ignition interlock device requirement
• Drug and alcohol assessment program
• Five years probation

How a DUI Attorney Can Help

A DUI defense attorney can help you avoid having a DUI conviction on your record. In some cases, your attorney may be able to have the charges against you reduced to reckless driving or a lesser infraction.

Many people are afraid to hire a DUI attorney because of the cost. However, the costs of not hiring an attorney are significantly greater. An attorney can help you keep your driver’s license and maintain your driving privileges. They can even keep a DUI off your record so your insurance rates won’t skyrocket.

To do this, your attorney will need to investigate your case to determine the best way to fight these charges. Police officers often make legal mistakes when arresting DUI suspects. They may not have followed the required sobriety test procedures or the breathalyzer could have been calibrated incorrectly.

A lawyer can use these to get the charges reduced and prevent you from losing your driver’s license, getting an ignition interlock device installed, or having to get SR22 insurance later. If your case does proceed to trial, your DUI attorney will know the best way to fight these charges. Hiring a local DUI attorney also means that your attorney will have in-depth knowledge of the courts, judges, and prosecutors you may face.

Remember, just because you were arrested and charged with a DUI offense does not mean you have to accept a conviction. Like any other criminal charges, fighting these charges is an important part of protecting your future.

Contact Our Seattle DUI Defense Lawyers Today

If you are facing DUI charges in Seattle, it is essential to know that you do not just have to accept them. You can fight these charges and protect your driving record. Our Seattle DUI defense attorneys can examine your DUI and help you review your legal options. If this is your first DUI, we can help you avoid the loss of your driver's license.

The experienced DUI defense lawyers at Lewis & Laws, PLLC, 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. We know how to fight DUI charges and can protect your future. Call us today!