DUI Penalties in Washington State

Hello. I am Linda Callahan, your reliable source for understanding DUI laws and penalties. With many years of experience, I have assisted numerous individuals with DUI cases. I am also the author of the DUI Practice Manual for Washington State, a trusted resource for defense attorneys, judges, and prosecutors. My goal is to provide support and guidance during this challenging time in your life. My team and I are here to offer you the information and assistance necessary to make informed decisions and progress forward.

FAQ's

What is a DUI?

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a criminal offense when a person operates a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol. The penalties for a DUI charge in Washington State are severe, even for a first offense. These severe consequences can include fines, jail time, license suspension, and mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device. Understanding the legal penalties associated with a DUI conviction and the potential defenses to fight the charges effectively is crucial.

What is a Physical Control DUI?

A “physical control” charge applies if a person is in actual physical control of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or any drug. Physical Control is similar to a DUI and carries similar penalties. The penalties for a DUI are the same as those for physical control.

How long will a DUI stay on your record?

A DUI conviction in Washington State will remain on your record for life and can never be removed. This is why hiring an experienced DUI attorney is essential. If we can obtain a non-dui resolution, you may be able to vacate that charge in 10 years

Can I refuse a breath test?

Yes, you can refuse a breath test, but there are consequences. Refusal can result in an automatic license suspension for at least one year and may be used as evidence against you in court.

What are the costs associated with a DUI?

The costs of a DUI can be substantial, including fines, court fees, attorney fees, increased insurance premiums, and costs associated with DUI education programs and license reinstatement. At Callahan Law, we offer transparent flat fees for all clients.

How long is your license suspended for DUI

Yes, depending on whether you took or refused a breath or blood test, you could lose your license for 90 days, one year, or more. To fight the suspension, you must request a DUI Hearing with the Department of Licensing within seven days of the arrest.

Is a DUI a Felony?

A DUI is only a Felony if you have four or more prior DUI’s within 10 years.

What is a Deferred Prosecution?

A Deferred Prosecution for a DUI is a court-approved treatment program that if completed successfully, results in the dismissal of the DUI.

What To Expect

In general, when a person is arrested for DUI in Washington State, two separate cases arise:

An administrative case with DOL to suspend or revoke the person’s license.
A criminal case with the court.

DOL License Suspension

Unless a blood test was administered, the DOL will usually “suspend” the person’s license 30 days from the date of the arrest. The same is true if the DOL “revokes” the license due to the person refusing a breath or blood test.

The arresting officer is required to give the person a notice that they have a right to a hearing to contest the suspension or revocation, however, the request for a hearing MUST BE POSTMARKED within 7 days of the arrest or applied for online.

Criminal DUI Charge

Some courts can take several months before the person is charged and notified of their first court date.

At the first court hearing, called an “arraignment”, the person pleads “not guilty” and the court imposes “conditions” upon the person while the case is pending.

These conditions may include: posting bail or bond; not consuming alcohol, marijuana, and non-prescribed drugs; not driving under the influence; not driving without a valid license and insurance.

Washington State DUI Laws

Revised Code of Washington for DUI

According to the Washington State Law, the stature for a DUI is codified at RCW 46.61.502 and reads as follows:

A person is guilty of driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, marijuana, or any drug if the person drives a vehicle within this state;
And the person has, within 2 hours after driving, an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher as shown by analysis of the person’s breath or blood made under RCW 46.61.506; or
The person has, within 2 hours after driving, a THC concentration of 5.00 or higher as shown by analysis of the person’s blood made under RCW 46.61.506; or
While the person is under the influence of or affected by intoxicating liquor, marijuana, or any drug; or
While the person is under the combined influence of or affected by intoxicating liquor, marijuana, and any drug.

At Callahan Law, P.S., Inc., our DUI Lawyers ensure every client’s case is thoroughly investigated and the evidence scrutinized for defenses that might lead to the case being dismissed or reduced to a charge less serious than a DUI.

Law Enforcement's Role

Law enforcement officers in most agencies in Washington have the goal of pulling over three cars per hour. The primary purpose of this goal is to locate and arrest drivers who have been drinking. They will stop a vehicle for the slightest driving irregularity or minor equipment violation.
Once they smell the odor of alcohol, an arrest is imminent, whether or not the driver performs the voluntary field sobriety tests. The officer has the power to search the vehicle upon arrest and, except sometimes in the case of a commercial or farm transport vehicle, must impound the vehicle, causing the driver to pay towing and impound fees to get their vehicle back.

Courts

Washington State DUI laws and the court’s decisions are always evolving.

You need a DUI lawyer who creatively challenges the evidence against you, understands the science and technology of breath and blood testing, and has the experience to notice mistakes made by the police and prosecutors in DUI prosecutions; you need Callahan Law, P.S., Inc.

Prosecution

The prosecution does not necessarily need to prove that the person gave a breath or blood sample above the legal limit; they only need to prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the person’s driving was affected by an impairing substance.

How a DUI Can Affect Your Everyday Life

criminal record

A DUI conviction is a serious criminal offense that can never be vacated (expunged) from your criminal record, and will show up on a background check for the rest of your life. A first DUI conviction can put a person’s career and livelihood in jeopardy

CDL Holders, Delivery Drivers and Pilots

CDL Holders: A person who has a commercial driver’s license will lose their license for a year for a first offense DUI unless the court charge is reduced to a lesser offense, and the DOL hearing is won.
Delivery Drivers: Even an arrest for DUI can lead to firing. Most corporations will not insure a driver with a DUI.
Pilots: All but military pilots must report the arrest and conviction on their FAA Airman’s Medical Form. A DUI conviction may jeopardize a commercial pilot’s career.

For those who operate machinery or airplanes, drive a company vehicle, or drive for income, you must apply for a DUI Hearing with the Department of Licensing within 7 days of the arrest.

Other Consequences

Increase in the cost of insurance
Cancellation of insurance
Difficulty renting a car
Denial of entry to Canada for non-Canadian citizens

License Suspension

License suspension is a common consequence of a DUI conviction. Understanding the duration of suspension and the possibility of obtaining a restricted license is crucial for those facing a DUI charge.

DOL License Suspension or Revocation (RCW 46.20.308)

If you are arrested for a DUI in Washington State, and refuse the breath test, or take the test and blow over 0.08, or a blood analysis results in a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or above, or a THC (marijuana) concentration of 5 ng or above, the Washington DOL is required to suspend (less than 1 year) or revoke (1 year or longer) your driver’s license administratively.

If you are 21 or older (limits differ for those younger and for commercial drivers) DOL will suspend your license if:

You refused to take a breath (or blood) alcohol concentration (BAC) test or;
You submitted to testing and the result showed a BAC at or above the legal standard for intoxication (.08 alcohol, or 5 ng THC).
If either of these instances occurred, your license will be administratively suspended or revoked automatically (on the 30th day following your arrest)
If you do not request an administrative hearing to contest the suspension or revocation.
The length of an administrative suspension for an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or above, or for 5 ng or higher of THC, is 90 days.
Refusing to take a breath test will result in a year-long administrative revocation.
However, a second or subsequent incident with a refusal or a breath or blood result of 0.08 or higher within 7 years, will cause a 2-year administrative license revocation.
Keep in mind that the revocation period for those who refuse is always longer than for those who agree to breath testing.
This administrative license suspension or revocation is completely separate from the criminal charge you may face.
These suspensions require the knowledge and exclusive strategies our DUI Lawyers employ for our clients every day.

Ignition Interlock Device

You could face an Interlock Device requirement both from the Court after your arraignment and from the State Department of Licensing after your conviction. It is important to note that an Interlock Device is a mandatory condition of probation if you have been convicted of a “Prior Offense” under Washington Law. Washington State also typically requires individuals convicted of DUI to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicles. This device measures a driver’s BAC before allowing the vehicle to start, promoting safe and sober driving.

Any pre-conviction term of Interlock Device will vary widely in duration, while the post-conviction interlock device requirement can range in duration from 6 months to 10 years.

SR-22 Insurance

If your license to drive is suspended or revoked because of a DUI arrest or conviction, you will likely need to obtain SR-22 insurance, a certificate that demonstrates financial responsibility. This certificate is not a specific type of insurance policy but rather an add-on to an insurance policy that can raise your rates.

You will be required to maintain this policy for at least 3 years following the date you reinstate your license.

Meet Our Team of Experienced DUI Attorneys

Why Choose Callahan Law?

Callahan Law is a recognized leader in DUI defense in Washington State. With a team of experienced attorneys specializing in DUI cases, we offer:

Knowledge: The attorneys at Callahan Law have a deep understanding of Washington’s DUI laws and legal processes.
Proven Results: They have a track record of successfully defending clients against DUI charges.
Personalized Representation: Each case is treated with the utmost care and tailored to the individual circumstances.
Client Satisfaction: Callahan Law is committed to protecting your rights and guiding you through the legal process.

DUI Case Results

**Updated 08/03/2023**

DUI's Reduced

9 0 %

DUI's Dismissed

DUI's > Neg 1

DUI's > Reckless Driving

DOL Hearings Won

In-Depth Guide To DUI Laws In Washington

This comprehensive guide will provide in-depth information about the DUI laws in Washington State, including the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC), the different types of DUI charges, and how the authorities test for impairment. Additionally, we will discuss the penalties for a DUI conviction, such as mandatory minimum jail time, fines, and license suspension.

Penalties for a DUI Conviction

In Washington, DUI has serious penalties even at the misdemeanor level, and those penalties become increasingly severe with each subsequent offense. Typically, a DUI in Washington will have a maximum penalty of 364 days in jail, a $5,000 fine, and many other minimum penalties. In general, these penalties can include:

Jail time or electronic home monitoring
Financial costs, such as probation fees and legal fines
Driver licensing consequences
Commercial Driver License Consequences
Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device requirements
Substance Use Evaluation and Treatment
SCRAM devices (remote alcohol monitoring)

These penalties change with the severity of your charge and can also be impacted by other factors, such as whether you had passengers under 16 and the level of your breath test.

Let’s break down the penalties for first, second, and third DUI charges:

First Offense DUI In Washington State

What Happens on Your First DUI?

In Washington, a first-offense DUI may often be reduced to a lesser charge if you have a knowledgeable DUI lawyer negotiating for you.
In most Washington State jurisdictions, prosecutors will not reduce a DUI to a lesser charge unless they believe they have a problem proving the case.
This is why an experienced and well-respected DUI lawyer is necessary to get the best result. The lawyers at Callahan Law, P.S., Inc. are knowledgeable and diligent and go beyond the call to be sure that no stone is left unturned to find weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case.
Your license will be subject to an administrative suspension or revocation on the 30th day following your arrest.
By getting the charge reduced from DUI to a lesser offense, you avoid the extreme penalties of a first-offense DUI in Washington State, and the lesser charge may later be “expunged.” However, if you plead guilty to DUI or are found guilty of DUI at trial, the charge will never be “expunged” from your criminal history.

DUI First Offense, Felony or Misdemeanor?

First Offense DUI Conviction

If convicted and your breath or blood test is under 0.150 for alcohol or 5 nanograms of THC or more:

Minimum 24 hours| Maximum 364 days in jail
Instead of Jail, you can opt for 15 days of Electric Home Monitoring (EHM) per one day in jail or other Jail Alternatives (when available).
License suspension for 90 days (day-for-day credit possible for admin suspension or revocation already served.)
1 Year of Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device
Minimum fine of $990.50 | Maximum fine of $5,000
Mandatory alcohol assessment and treatment, if recommended

If convicted and your breath or blood test is over 0.150 for alcohol or accused of refusing the breath or blood test:

Minimum 48 hours in jail | Maximum 364 days in jail.
Instead of Jail, you can opt for 30 days of Electric Home Monitoring (EHM) or a Jail Alternative
License revocation for 1 year | 2 years for a test refusal (day-for-day credit possible for admin suspension or revocation already served.)
1 Year of Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device
Minimum fine of $1,245.50 | Maximum fine of $5,000
Mandatory alcohol assessment and treatment/classes, if recommended.

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Focused on You

We create a custom defense for every client. Not all cases are the same and we know that. Your concerns and goals are our top priority.

Reputation

As a long-time author and speaker, Ms. Callahan is respected across the county for her trial skills and investigative knowledge. Her reputation proceeds herself when appearing in court.

Second DUI in Washington State

Penalties For Second DUI

A second offense DUI in Washington State can carry very serious consequences.
This is particularly so if your second DUI is within 7 years of the prior DUI because the judge has mandatory minimums that he or she cannot go below in sentencing.
So, unless your charge can be reduced to a lesser offense, deferred, or you are acquitted at trial, you face pretty extreme penalties for a second DUI offense within 7 years.
You need a knowledgeable attorney to help put together a proper defense for you. We handle DUI cases with priors every day successfully. Call today for your free consultation.

Second Offense DUI Conviction

If convicted and you have a prior DUI within 7 years, and your breath or blood test is under <.150 for alcohol or 5 nanograms of THC or more:

Minimum 30 days in jail | Maximum 1 year in jail
60 days mandatory Electric Home Monitoring (EHM)
As an alternative to the mandatory Jail and EHM term, you can petition the court to allow you to serve 180 days of EHM instead or 120 days of 24/7 Sobriety Monitoring.
2-year license revocation (day-for-day credit possible for admin suspension or revocation already served.)
Either 1 year or 5 years of Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device.
Minimum fine of $1,245.50 | Maximum fine of $5,000
Mandatory alcohol assessment and out-patient treatment

If convicted and your breath or blood test is over >.150 for alcohol or accused of refusing the breath or blood test:

Minimum 45 days in jail | Maximum 1 year in jail
90 days mandatory Electric Home Monitoring (EHM)
As an alternative to the mandatory jail and EHM, you can request the court impose 6 months of EHM or 120 days of 24/7 Sobriety Monitoring
License revocation for 900 days | 3 years for a test refusal (day-for-day credit possible for admin suspension or revocation already served.)
Minimum fine of $1,670.50 | Maximum fine of $5,000
Mandatory alcohol assessment and outpatient treatment.

Other Potential Consequences of a Second Offense

Jail and Electronic Hom Monitoring (EHM) or SCRAM

Other serious consequences, not imposed by a judge, may result from the conviction for a Washington State second offense DUI.
Few people can serve a lengthy jail sentence without losing their job.
Electronic home monitoring is costly and at the offender’s expense.
The second DUI conviction will show up in background checks for employment, by a landlord, or creditors.
Canadian border guards will not permit you to cross into that country.
You may be denied a rental car.

CDL Holders

Commercial drivers convicted of a second DUI, face a lifetime disqualification of the CDL.

Insurance Rates

For anyone convicted of a DUI, insurance rates may skyrocket or the policy may be canceled.

Chemical Dependency Treatment

For a second offense, there is a greater likelihood that a chemical dependency evaluation will result in a recommendation for intensive treatment for alcohol or drug dependency.

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Questions To Ask a DUI Lawyer

Are you a leader in DUI Defense?

Our firm is a clear leader in the DUI field, known nationwide for DUI defense. Our President, Linda M. Callahan, is consistently invited to speak at legal conferences and is the author of the acclaimed Washington DUI Practice Manual. In addition, she teaches other attorneys how to defend these difficult cases effectively.

How many DUI trials have you handled and what is the percentage of DUI cases in your caseload?

As your defense attorneys, we stand ready to fight for you inside and outside of the courtroom. At Callahan Law, P.S., Inc., 98% of our caseload consists of DUI defense. We are prepared to take every client’s case to trial, which makes us stronger negotiators.

Have you had advanced training in Breath testing Machines?

All lawyers in the firm understand the science of infrared spectroscopy-employed breath testing. We own a breath test machine and use it in trials to help jurors understand the mechanics and science of breath testing as well as potential issues that may cause false-positive results.

Do you have advanced training in blood analysis methods?

Due to her special training at Axion Labs in Chicago, Ms. Callahan possesses extensive knowledge of blood analysis methods, including gas chromatography. She has studied phlebotomy to learn what can go wrong in forensic blood draws and has written a chapter on blood evidence in her book. This valuable strategic knowledge has been a critically important part of obtaining the best results for clients.

Are you certified in Field Sobriety Testing?

Our lawyers are well-trained in the limitations and proper administration of field sobriety tests and, therefore, know when officers err in giving instructions. Ms. Callahan is certified to administer these tests, having been trained by NHTSA-certified instructors.

Washington State DUI Deferred Prosecution

What is a DP?

A deferred prosecution is a court-approved treatment program that, if successfully completed, results in the dismissal of the underlying DUI charge.
You may only have one deferred prosecution in your lifetime. For this reason, a deferred prosecution is generally not the best way to handle a first offense DUI, which carries minimal jail time compared to a second or subsequent DUI.
Entry into a deferred prosecution keeps you out of jail; therefore, it is best “saved” or to be used when facing significant jail time on a second or third DUI offense.
It also prevents the court from imposing a fine for the offense, allowing the court to impose only court costs and specific assessments required by law.

Deferred Prosecution Facts

Will my license be suspended on a DP?

If you took the breath test

If you took the breath test and are not accused of “refusing” the breath or blood test, your license suspension or revocation will be “stayed” or put on hold.

Upon completion of the 5-year deferred prosecution, it will be rescinded. In the meantime, you will be granted a probationary license, provided you are otherwise not prohibited from driving for some other reason.

Ignition interlock

A deferred prosecution for DUI (whether alcohol or drug-related) does not avoid a requirement that the person drive only vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device.

How to qualify for a Deferred Prosecution?

You have not previously been placed on a deferred prosecution for a Title 46 or similar municipal ordinance violation.

You will have to obtain a specific type of assessment from a state-certified substance abuse disorder professional.

Our attorneys will draft a petition for a deferred prosecution and review it with you before filing with the court, along with your assessment.

You must waive your right to a jury trial for the DUI and other trial rights. Admitting that the written police reports are admissible and sufficient to support a finding of guilt if the court finds reason to “revoke” the deferred prosecution.

What to expect during the DP Program

Required Treatment

A deferred prosecution consists of two years of treatment in a court-approved and state-accredited treatment program, followed by three years of sobriety and law-abiding behavior.
The treating agency must send to the court proof of attendance and compliance (or non-compliance) with the treatment program on schedule, as the court requires.
You must complete a course of intensive outpatient (IOP) treatment as recommended by the treatment agency. In the first year of the program, you may be required to attend as many as three treatment sessions per week.
In the alternative, the person may undergo inpatient treatment at a state-approved facility.
The remainder of the first year consists of weekly attendance at treatment.
In the second year, this requirement is reduced to once a month.
Throughout, the person must also attend two alcoholics anonymous (or equivalent) meetings per week.

When is the DUI Dismissed?

A hearing is held at the end of the two-year treatment program to ensure that all requirements are completed.
Three years after the two-year treatment program has been completed, the court will dismiss the underlying DUI (or other charge) provided that the person has committed no “similar offenses,” has maintained sobriety, and has complied with any additional requirements imposed by the court when granting the deferred prosecution.
For example, some courts require AA (or equivalent) attendance for the entire five-year period.

Is a DP right for me?

After reviewing the prosecution’s evidence and considering any defenses that may overcome that evidence, a seasoned DUI lawyer may determine that the case may best be resolved without the use of a deferred prosecution.
Because the opportunity for a deferred prosecution is a once-in-a-lifetime event, it should only be used when the person has no viable alternative resolution or when the person feels sure that without the supervision of the court and probation, they will continue to use alcohol or other substances to their detriment, thereby increasing the likelihood of committing a new offense.
If you are considering a deferred prosecution, we can help you decide whether that course of action is right for you and, if so, navigate you through the process.

We Author the DUI Manual Defense Attorneys rely on everyday for DUI Defense Strategies.

3rd DUI In Washington State

Penalties For a Third DUI

If you or someone you know has been arrested on their 3rd DUI offense in Washington State, they will very likely need to post bail to be released from jail.

Cash or a bail bond will have to be posted with the court to secure their release after a third DUI.
At the first hearing, the judge may require that the person wear an ankle GPS bracelet or carry a portable breath alcohol monitoring device when their case is pending.

Hefty consequences are imposed upon a third DUI conviction in Washington State, even if the priors were long ago or in another state.

The judge must sentence the person to certain mandatory minimums if this is the third offense in 7 years.
However, the judge can always impose up to the maximum penalty allowed by the law, even if the prior offenses occurred outside of that time period.

Third Offense DUI Conviction

If convicted and you have two prior DUIs within 7 years, and your breath or blood test is under <.150 for alcohol or 5 nanograms of THC or more:

Minimum 90 days in jail | Maximum 1 year in jail
120 days mandatory Electric Home Monitoring (EHM) or a Jail Alternative. 8 days in jail minimum.
As an alternative to the mandatory Jail and EHM, you can ask for 360 days of EHM or 24/7 Sobriety Monitoring
3-year license revocation (day-for-day credit possible for admin suspension or revocation already served.)
Up to 10 years of Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device.
Minimum fine of $2,095.50| Maximum fine of $5,000
Mandatory alcohol assessment and out-patient treatment

If convicted and your breath or blood test is over >.150 for alcohol or accused of refusing the breath or blood test:

Minimum 120 days in jail | Maximum 1 year in jail
150 days mandatory Electric Home Monitoring (EHM) or a Jail Alternative. 10 days in jail minimum.
As an alternative to mandatory Jail and EHM, you can ask for 360 days of EHM or 24/7 Sobriety monitoring.
4-Year License Revocation
Up to 10 years of Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device.
Minimum fine of $2,945.50 | Maximum fine of $5,000
Mandatory alcohol assessment and out-patient treatment.

We Author the DUI Manual Defense Attorneys rely on everyday for DUI Defense Strategies.

Felony DUI Laws In Washington State

A Fourth DUI In Washington State Could Be Considered a Felony DUI

4th DUI in Washington State

Since 2007, a DUI or Physical Control is a Felony DUI if the person has four or more prior DUIs (or other qualified offenses) within ten years or if the person has ever previously been convicted of vehicular homicide or vehicular assault while under the influence.
Also, a DUI or Physical Control is a felony if the person has ever previously been convicted of felony DUI or felony Physical Control.

High Bail Set By The Judge

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 what will likely be very high bail or bond.
The judge is obligated to consider the community’s safety 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 and may not be satisfied to let the person be free in the community, even if the person offers to have an ignition interlock device or be on electronic home detention.

An experienced Washington State DUI lawyer will know the best arguments to persuade a judge from holding a person in custody while their case is pending.

What is a Felony DUI?

How Is A Felony DUI Proven?

Prosecution

Similar to a gross misdemeanor DUI, the prosecution has to prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the driver either had a .08 or higher breath or blood alcohol concentration, a 5 ng or higher blood THC concentration, or that the driving was affected by alcohol, marijuana or any drug to “any appreciable degree.”
In addition, the prosecution must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the driver had been convicted of the required number of prior offenses within the required time period.
Unfortunately, it does not help one’s chances with a jury on the current offense if the jury is aware of the prior offenses because a jury might be unduly prejudiced by knowledge of the priors, believing that the person is guilty now simply because they did it before.

Penalties For a Fourth DUI

A felony DUI is a Class C offense, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. The actual sentence is calculated by determining an “offender score,” which is based on points for certain current and prior convictions (unless the offender is a juvenile).
A conviction also results in a mandatory license revocation which is “tolled” while the offender is incarcerated. The person may be eligible for an ignition interlock driver’s license so that the offender may still drive while his or her license is revoked.
Washington State DUI laws and the courts’ decisions regarding them are always evolving. You need a DUI lawyer who creatively challenges the evidence against you, who understands the science and technology of breath and blood testing, and who has the experience to notice mistakes made by the police and prosecutors in DUI prosecutions, you need Callahan Law, P.S., Inc.

What Are Considered Prior Offenses for Felony DUI?

DUI
Physical Control
Driving or operating a commercial motor vehicle with alcohol or THC in you the system
Vehicular homicide committed while under the influence
Vehicular homicide committed in a reckless manner or with disregard for the safety of others if originally filed as committed while under the influence
Vehicular assault committed while under the influence
Vehicular assault committed in a reckless manner or with disregard for the safety of others if originally filed as committed while under the influence
Negligent driving in the first degree, if originally filed as a DUI, Physical Control, Vehicular Homicide under the influence, or Vehicular Assault under the influence
Reckless driving, if originally filed as a DUI, Physical Control, Vehicular Homicide under the influence or Vehicular Assault under the influence
Reckless endangerment, if originally filed as a DUI, Physical Control, Vehicular Homicide under the influence or Vehicular Assault under the influence
An out-of-state conviction for any of the above offenses if they are found to be “comparable” offenses under Washington law.
Operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or any drug (Boating Under the Influence–BUI)
Operating a vessel in a reckless manner if the charge was originally filed as a BUI
Operating an aircraft while under the influence
Operating an aircraft in a careless or reckless manner if the charge was originally filed as operating an aircraft under the influence
Operating a non-highway vehicle while under the influence
Operating a snowmobile as to endanger another person while under the influence
A deferred prosecution granted for a DUI or Physical Control
A deferred prosecution for Negligent Driving in the First degree, Reckless Driving, or Reckless Endangerment if originally filed as a DUI, Physical Control, or Vehicular Homicide or Vehicular Assault while under the influence
A deferred prosecution in another state is granted for a DUI or Physical Control if the out-of-state program is equivalent to the Washington state program
A deferred sentence is imposed in a prosecution for Negligent Driving in the First Degree, Reckless Driving, or Reckless Endangerment if originally filed as a DUI, Physical Control, Vehicular Homicide, or Vehicular Assault while under the influence.

Conclusion

Understanding DUI penalties in Washington State is essential for anyone facing a DUI charge. The consequences can be severe, but with the right legal representation, you can navigate the process effectively.

Callahan Law stands as a reliable and experienced choice for DUI defense in Washington State, ensuring you receive the best possible defense when you need it most. If you’re facing a DUI charge, don’t hesitate to reach out to them for assistance. Your future may depend on it.

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