The Law Offices of Smith & White, PLLC Home
Criminal Defense Attorneys Representing People Accused of DUI in South King County
DUI arrests are common in South King County. Simply because a person is charged with a DUI arrest, however, does not mean that a conviction is inevitable. Rather, in many DUI cases, the evidence is insufficient to demonstrate, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the defendant committed the offense in question. If you are accused of a DUI crime in South King County, it is advisable to speak to an attorney about what measures you can take to protect your rights and reputation. The dedicated South King County DUI defense attorneys of The Law Offices of Smith & White PLLC are well-versed in what it takes to prevail in criminal matters, and if you hire us, we will aggressively pursue the best legal result available in consideration of the facts surrounding your arrest. We regularly assist people charged with DUI offenses in South King County and cities in Kitsap, Pierce, and Thurston Counties.
Obtaining a Police Report for a South King County DUI ArrestTypically, the police report filed following a South King County DUI arrest is a key piece of evidence in the prosecution’s case. As such, a South King County DUI defense attorney will usually seek copies of the police report pertaining to a DUI defendant’s arrest. Police reports should be requested from the law enforcement agency that responded to the alleged incident. People seeking police reports from the King County Sheriff's Office should visit their webpage.
The Law Regarding South King County DUI ChargesRCW 46.61.502 allows law enforcement agents to impose DUI charges in South King County State under multiple circumstances. One common basis for DUI charges is driving a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Additionally, driving under the influence of drugs, whether they are illegal substances, prescription medications, or over-the-counter drugs that impair driving abilities, can lead to DUI charges. DUI charges can also arise out of the operation of a vehicle with a THC concentration of 5.00 or higher.
It's important to note that under RCW 46.61.504, people in physical control of a vehicle while under the influence, even if not actively driving, can be charged with a crime. In other words, simply being in the driver's seat with the ability to start and move the vehicle can lead to charges.
Penalties for South King DUI ChargesIn Washington State, the penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) offenses are significant, and they increase for subsequent offenses. First DUI offenses are typically charged as gross misdemeanors. They carry a mandatory minimum jail sentence of 24 consecutive hours, with the possibility of up to 364 days in jail. The fines imposed for first DUI offenses range from $350 to $5,000. Additionally, the defendant must complete a court-approved alcohol or drug education and treatment program at their own expense.
The court will also impose a probationary period of up to five years, during which the defendant must follow specific conditions set by the court. The defendant’s driver's license will be suspended for a minimum of 90 days and a maximum of one year. The installation of an ignition interlock device for a minimum of one year is mandatory as well.
For subsequent DUI offenses, the penalties escalate with longer mandatory jail sentences, higher fines, extended probationary periods, longer license suspensions, and longer IID requirements. It is important to note that these penalties can vary depending on the specific circumstances. As such, it is wise for anyone charged with a DUI in South King County to seek advice from a South King County DUI Defense attorney regarding the potential consequences of a DUI offense.
Speak to an Experienced South King County DUI Defense AttorneyA South King County DUI conviction can have lasting negative implications, but many people charged with DUI offenses are able to avoid a guilty verdict. If you are faced with accusations that you committed a DUI offense, it is smart to speak to a South King County DUI defense attorney promptly. At the Law Offices of Smith & White PLLC, our experienced South King County DUI defense attorneys can advise you of your rights and aid you in pursuing the best legal outcome possible under the facts of your case. Our primary office is in Tacoma, and we can meet with clients by appointment at our second office in Vashon. We frequently defend people charged with DU crimes in South King County and cities in Kitsap, Pierce, and Thurston Counties. You can reach us at 253-203-1645or via the form online to set up a conference.
