DUI Defense in Spokane, WA

What Is DUI in Washington?

In Washington state, DUI is defined as operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or both. This impairment is measured by blood alcohol content (BAC), with a legal limit of 0.08% for drivers over 21 and even lower thresholds for commercial drivers and individuals under 21. 

However, state law considers impairment of your ability to drive safety as the primary concern, rather than strictly BAC level. Thus, if law enforcement believes your driving ability has been compromised by drugs or alcohol, you can be arrested even if your BAC is below the legal limit. 

First Offense DUI in Spokane: What You Need to Know

The consequences of a first offense DUI in Spokane go beyond statutory penalties and can affect employment opportunities, insurance rates, and community standing. For first offense DUI charges, Washington law imposes mandatory minimum penalties, but courts in Spokane may also require participation in local programs such as alcohol education courses or Victim Impact Panels. If you are arrested for drunk driving in Spokane for the first time, working with a first offense DUI attorney in Spokane is essential for understanding your options and the best path forward. Our firm has substantial experience with Spokane County District Court and can guide you through each step with clarity and compassion.

Immediate action after a first-time DUI arrest is critical. Our team at Freedman Law Office helps clients with both the Washington State Department of Licensing administrative process and criminal proceedings in Spokane courts. We support you in gathering necessary documents, meeting strict deadlines, and developing arguments tailored to the unique circumstances of your case.

DUI Penalties in Washington

The penalties for a DUI conviction can be severe, even for first-time offenders. A first DUI conviction can result in mandatory minimum jail time, a substantial fine, driver’s license suspension, and the installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. 

The mandatory minimum jail time is 24 hours for a BAC of 0.08% to 0.15%. If the BAC is above 0.15% or for a refusal to take a breath or blood test, the minimum jail time increases to 48 hours. Fines can reach up to $5,000; license suspension ranges from 90 days to a year. 

Additionally, you may be subject to an extended probation period, ordered to complete community service hours, and required to participate in a drug or alcohol education program. For subsequent convictions, these penalties increase, leading to longer jail sentences, higher fines, longer periods of license suspension, and potentially even felony charges.

The Complexity of DUI Charges

DUI cases are complex due to the intricate interplay of scientific evidence (such as blood, breath, or urine tests) and legal principles. Defending a DUI charge often involves challenging the accuracy of the BAC testing methods, the legality of the traffic stop, and the conduct of the arresting officers. 

The scientific aspects surrounding the metabolism of alcohol or drugs in the body and the potential for testing equipment malfunctions add layers of complication to the legal defense. This complexity underscores the importance of having an experienced DUI defense attorney knowledgeable in both the scientific and legal aspects of DUI cases.

Attorney Sarah L. Freedman is adept at analyzing and challenging the following DUI factors: 

• Field sobriety test accuracy: These tests are notoriously questionable, often due to inadequate training or administration by officers or failure to account for physical or medical conditions affecting a driver’s test performance.
• Breathalyzer test issues: Breath-test machines that measure blood alcohol content can be unreliable due to faulty maintenance, calibration, and operation.
• Lack of probable cause: Police officers must have probable cause to pull you over, such as witnessing a violation of traffic laws or signs of impaired driving. A lack of clear probable cause can be an error. 
• Police report mistakes: Errors or inconsistencies in the police report, including deviations from standard procedures or factual inaccuracies, can be used in your defense. All details relevant to your arrest must be reported accurately. 
• Failure to adequately explain tests: You must fully understand what you are asked to do and the implications of field sobriety and breathalyzer tests. A failure in this can impact the validity of any test results. 
• Chain of custody errors: These occur when a lack of proper documentation or mishandling of evidence occurs, such as improper labeling or recording of test samples or handling by individuals not documented in the chain of custody. 

Administrative License Suspension & DOL Hearings in Spokane

After a DUI arrest in Spokane, your license could face immediate administrative suspension by the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL)—an outcome that is completely separate from any criminal charge or court finding. This administrative punishment can proceed in as little as 7 days following your arrest if you do not take formal steps to challenge it. At Freedman Law Office, our DUI lawyers in Spokane help you understand the importance of timely DOL hearing requests, assist you in building a persuasive case for license retention, and represent you before hearing officers who regularly conduct DOL hearings for area residents.

We go beyond the administrative hearing itself by assessing whether proper procedures were followed by Spokane police or Spokane County deputies who issued the citation or performed the chemical test. This includes closely reviewing who administered the breath or blood test and whether location-specific protocols, such as those at local Spokane substations or public safety buildings, were observed. 

If license suspension occurs, we advise on eligibility for an Ignition Interlock License, ensuring that clients have the ability to maintain essential driving privileges. With our support, you benefit from time-sensitive, accurate guidance and legal representation tailored for the realities of DUI defense in Spokane, WA.

Reach out to us now and get support from our DUI attorneys in Spokane.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do if I'm Arrested for a DUI in Spokane?

If you're arrested for a DUI in Spokane, stay calm and comply with officer requests for basic identification. Politely decline to answer any admissible questions regarding your incident until you have spoken with a DUI lawyer in Spokane. Invoke your right to remain silent and promptly request legal counsel to safeguard your rights moving forward.

How Can a DUI Attorney in Spokane Help Me?

A DUI attorney in Spokane provides critical legal support, objectively evaluates your case, scrutinizes police conduct and evidence, and recommends the best strategies. They may challenge BAC or field sobriety test results, negotiate for plea agreements or alternative resolutions, and ensure all procedures adhere to Washington and Spokane-specific law, maximizing your chances for a better outcome.

Can a DUI Charge Be Reduced or Dismissed?

It is possible to seek a reduction or dismissal, depending on your DUI case’s unique facts. A drunk driving lawyer in Spokane evaluates issues like improper stops, inaccurate testing, or chain of custody errors to weaken the prosecutor’s case. The best chance for reduction or dismissal comes from a focused, locally informed defense strategy.

What Should I Expect During The DUI Legal Process?

The DUI legal process in Spokane generally involves arraignment, pre-trial motions, plea negotiations, and potentially trial. Your DUI attorney in Spokane will guide you through every phase, explaining what to expect and preparing your response. Open, informed communication and aggressive representation are key advantages we offer from start to finish.

Contact us now to start building your defense with a team that stands by your side. Call us at (509) 215-2569 today!