Washington State DUI Fourth Offense

Were you, or someone you care about, arrested for a fourth DUI in Washington State?  Chances are quite high that a person facing a fourth DUI in Washington will be held in custody while their case is pending, unless they can post bail or a bond.  This is because the judge has an obligation to consider the safety of the community when deciding whether to allow an accused person to be released from custody.  Often, the judge will rule on the side of caution in this regard. An experienced lawyer will know the best arguments to persuade a judge from holding a person in custody while their case is pending.

The penalties for a DUI conviction become increasingly harsh with each subsequent offense.  So while a first-time DUI offender may get by with a “slap on the wrist” a person facing a fourth conviction for DUI is facing very serious consequences—even if the three prior DUIs occurred a long time ago.  There is a misunderstanding that many people have about DUI sentences—they believe that if the prior DUIs are outside of 7 years, the judge cannot sentence them beyond the mandatory minimum for a first offense.  This is not the case.  The judge sentencing someone for  a DUI has the authority to impose up to 364 days in jail—even on a first offense.  Although the judge may not impose LESS than the mandatory minimum, when it is a second, third, or fourth DUI conviction, the risk of getting a year in jail increases proportionally.   

Now, more than ever, a person facing a fourth DUI needs the most talented, skilled and knowledgeable attorney he or she can get. They need more than just a “DUI lawyer,” they need an accomplished DUI TRIAL lawyer. Look no further—Ms. Callahan, author of the trusted legal book on DUIs in Washington, has the credentials.  She has tried the most difficult of cases and won not-guilty verdicts.  Call now to speak with her about your case.

To learn more about the penalties that apply for a Washington State 4th DUI offense, please contact Callahan Law today for legal advice.