Washington State Driving Under the Influence Law
In common with many other States, a DUI arrest in Washington will lead to two cases being brought against the defendant, a criminal case and a Department of Motor Vehicles case. If you have been arrested for DUI in Washington, you will face an immediate 7 day suspension of your license. Therefore it is essential that you contact a Washington DUI lawyer as soon as possible.
Charges for DUI in Washington can be prosecuted either on the basis of Blood Alcohol Concentration, which is currently set at a maximum of 0.08%, with enhancements for those registering a BAC of 0.15% or higher, or through proving impairment through “field sobriety tests”, driving patterns or through the testing of breath, blood or urine. A skilled DUI lawyer will be able to handle each of these situations.
Refusal to submit a test of breath or blood will result in a 1 year revocation of license.
| Conviction | Punishment |
| First | Minimum 24 hour jail term, increased to 30 days if BAC exceeds 0.15%. Fine of at least $350, $500 for higher BAC. Ignition interlock device required if BAC is greater than 0.15%. License revoked for 30 days. |
| Second within 7 years | Minimum fine of $500, increased to $750 for higher BAC. 30 days minimum jail term, rising to 45 days with increased BAC. 2 year revocation of license. |
| Third within 7 years or subsequent | Fine of at least $1000, or $1500 for BAC greater than 0.15%. 90 day jail term, rising to 120 days for higher BAC. 900 day license revocation. |
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