Being arrested and charged with a DUI can leave you with a lot questions that may seem impossible to answer. This is because DUI laws are often confusing, and there is no clear path that you can follow to resolve the situation.
As a DUI case progresses, there are many unexpected twists and turns that must be overcome. For a regular, hardworking Washington resident, negotiating these variables can be tricky. Our Washington state DUI attorneys are able to help their clients because they have been down this path before. While no two cases are ever the same, our team of legal professionals successfully resolve hundreds of these cases every single year.
After a drunk driving arrest, you only have 20 days to request a Washington Department of Licensing hearing (Washington DOL hearing). Your hearing with the Washington DOL will ultimately determine whether your driver’s license is suspended, and for how long.
Twenty days is very little time to do the legwork needed to make sure you are prepared for this very important administrative hearing, so our Washington DUI lawyers need time to ensure that everything is being done to protect your interests.
Getting Ready for Your Washington DOL HearingUnderstanding the law is an essential part of preparation for your Washington Department of Licensing hearing. What follows is some basic legal information that could be helpful if you’ve recently been charged with a drunk driving offense.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) - If your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08 or higher when you are arrested for a DUI, then you are facing a 90 day driver’s license suspension at your Washington Department of Licensing hearing.
Physical Control - This kind of violation incurs the same punishments as a regular DUI.
Minor DUI - While less severe than a regular DUI, a minor DUI will still result in a 30-day driver’s license suspension, if convicted.
Reckless Driving - A reckless driving charge also could result in a 30-day driver’s license suspension in our state.
Another necessary step when preparing for a Washington DOL hearing is to investigate any pertinent details that could be used to build a defense. Our DUI lawyers will ask key questions, such as “Were there any issues with the police reports or BAC measuring device that could lead to a dismissal?”
Another advantage of early preparation is that it gives our attorneys a head start on building a defense for the criminal portion of your case. This can reap dividends when you have to appear in court and as we negotiate with the prosecutor.
Contact Our Law Firm in Washington Today for a Free Case EvaluationDon’t waste any time - contact one of our Washington state DUI lawyers today for a free consultation about your drunk driving case and DOL hearing. This is a great way for you to get answers about your DUI without making a binding commitment.
If you choose to retain one of our attorneys, they will investigate your case, build an aggressive defense, and make sure you are ready for your Washington DOL hearing. You are facing a future filled with unknowns, so make sure that you have a professional who has traveled this road before acting as your personal advocate.