Driving While License Suspended (DWLS) in Kent

When facing driving with a license suspended (DWLS) charges in Kent, you need more than just a lawyer. You need a trusted defense team that knows the local King County courts and has a proven track record fighting these charges. With over 20 years of experience, we've handled tough cases right in Western Washington. We're not just familiar with the laws––we know the King County judges, prosecutors, and court procedures. Our Kent DWLS defense attorneys fight to achieve a favorable outcome for your case using an approach that is relentless, focused, and personalized. Contact our law offices now for a free case review and learn how we can put our local legal expertise to work for you.

If you've been charged with DWLS in Kent, it's important to act quickly. The sooner you act, the sooner our Kent driver defense attorneys can fight to get you back on the road.

1. Understand the Level of Your DWLS Charge: DWLS charges in Washington are categorized into three degrees under RCW 46.20.342:

• DWLS 1st Degree: The most serious, often tied to being labeled a habitual traffic offender
• DWLS 2nd Degree: Typically due to a prior suspension from DUI or other serious violations
• DWLS 3rd Degree: The least severe, usually for unpaid fines or failure to respond to a ticket

Knowing your charge helps us create a strong defense plan.

2. Review Your Citation And Court Date: Confirm your court date and location (likely Kent Municipal Court or King County District Court), as missing the date can result in a warrant.

3. Check The Status Of Your Driver's License: Verify your license status online through the Washington DOL. Resolving suspension issues before your court date can help reduce penalties.

4. Gather Documentation: Collect helpful documents like proof of payment for fines, your driving record, or proof of compliance with prior court orders.

5. Contact An Attorney Familiar With Kent Courts: DWLS cases in Kent go through local courts, and an attorney familiar with these procedures, as well as prosecutors and judges, is key to your case. We have extensive experience in Kent courts.

6. Avoid Driving Until Your Courts Reinstate Your License: Driving with a suspended license, even to attend court, can lead to further charges. Focus on getting your license reinstated first.

7. Show Up To Your Court Date Prepared: Arrive on time, dress appropriately, and bring your documents. If we represent you, we'll handle legal arguments and negotiations.

8. Follow Through On Court-Ordered Actions: Comply promptly with any penalties or actions the court requires, like paying fines or attending classes.

Remember, our knowledgeable attorneys specializing in license reinstatement are here to guide you every step of the way. Let's tackle this together.

When you're facing DWLS charges in Kent, there are several potential defenses we can use to challenge the case. Here are some strategies we will consider:

• You Didn't Know Your License Was Suspended: A common defense is proving you were unaware of the suspension. If the Washington DOL failed to notify you, we could argue you didn't knowingly break the law, particularly in 3rd-degree DWLS cases where suspensions often result from unpaid fines or missed notices.
• The Suspension Was Invalid: If your suspension was due to an error or procedural issues, we can challenge its validity. The case against you weakens if the DOL lacks grounds or fails to follow proper procedures.
• Necessity Defense: In some cases, we can argue you had no choice but to drive, such as in emergencies like escaping danger or transporting someone with a medical issue.
• You Were Not The Driver: If the prosecution can't prove you were driving, we can raise reasonable doubt. For example, we can challenge the charge if the officer didn't witness you driving or if the evidence is circumstantial.
• Compliance Before Court: Resolving the issue that caused your suspension (like unpaid tickets) before your court date can sometimes lead to reduced charges or dismissal, especially in 3rd-degree DWLS cases.
• Challenging The Stop Or Arrest: If the police didn't have reasonable suspicion or probable cause for the stop, our Kent DWLS defense attorneys can argue the stop was unlawful. Evidence obtained from an illegal stop should be suppressed and could result in case dismissal.
• Mistaken Identity Or Errors In Documentation: Errors in police reports, misidentification, or issues with DOL records can lead to false charges. Identifying discrepancies in evidence can strengthen your defense.

Every DWLS case is unique, and Kent's courts have their own procedures. So having a local, experienced Kent legal advocate on your side can make all the difference. Let's tackle this together.

Kent has public transportation options like the Kent Transit Center and King County Metro, but they do not go everywhere. If you want to go to places like the Kent Historical Museum, the ShoWare Center, or the Green River Natural Resources Area, or take scenic road trips along the Green River, the winding roads near the Soos Creek Trail, and the picturesque Lake Meridian, you need a car. Not having one means missing out on all our local beauty.

We believe that all DWLS charges can and should be challenged, and we are ready to do just that. Our attorneys specializing in DLWS defense, who are committed to protecting your driving privileges, have defended clients across Western Washington facing similar charges in Kent. Call our Federal Way legal defense team today for a free consultation with a driver defense lawyer. We'll explore your options and make a plan to get you back on the road.

If you're caught driving with a suspended license in Kent, you are committing a crime that could potentially land you in jail. Driving with a suspended license is abbreviated as DWLS, and there are a variety of reasons that could have led to the original suspension.

There are various DWLS crime categories in Washington State, each ranked according to its severity. The designation of your crime is often directly related to your original driver's license suspension.

First Degree DWLS is a gross misdemeanor. If you are a habitual offender who originally lost your license because of a criminal offense like DUI or hit and run, you will likely be charged with this crime. In these cases, you were likely labeled as a habitual traffic offender by the Department of Licensing, which means you are subject to mandatory jail time, if convicted.

Second Degree DWLS is more common than first degree DWLS, and still regarded as a gross misdemeanor. To be charged, you need not be labeled a habitual offender. You may be allowed to drive on a restricted license if convicted of this crime, which is something your lawyer can look into.

Third Degree DWLS is charged to Kent drivers who had their license suspended because of failing to pay a traffic ticket or court-mandated child support. This Kent crime is a misdemeanor offense, and you can usually get your license reinstated after paying your debt.

You need to remember that eligibility for the reissuance of your driver's license does not automatically mean your criminal charges have been dismissed. Our Kent DWLS lawyers have more than 30 years of combined experience, and will do everything legally possible to keep you licensed to drive and stay out of jail. Our Kent DWLS attorneys will also will also act as your personal advocate with the court, while offering you reliable legal counsel when you need it most.

No matter what DWLS charge you're currently facing, it demands your undivided attention. Our Kent driving while license suspended lawyers will help you deal with both the court, and the Department of Licensing as we address your case.

DWLS cases sometimes involve the possibility of jail time, expensive fines, and the prospect of having your driver's license suspended or revoked. If you can't legally drive, how will you get to work or perform necessary daily tasks?

The Kent DWLS attorneys at the Law Office of Jason S. Newcombe will help you face these charges so that you can resolve the situation efficiently and move forward with your life. It all starts with a free consultation about your situation, so contact one of our Kent DWLS lawyers and get the professional legal guidance you need to resolve your case.