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DUI Defense

Arrested for DUI in Tacoma? Smith & White, PLLC, can Help.

Our lawyers arm you with the facts you need to know about the DUI legal process in Tacoma, Pierce County and King County and across the state of Washington – information that can lead to sound decisions about your defense and your future.

The Smith and White law firm looks carefully at every police arrest procedure and aspects of probable cause that could have proven deceptive and led to a false arrest. Erratic driving could be the result of high winds, a dangerous road or a pre-existing medical condition, such as an allergy. At the arrest scene, a breath test machine could malfunction or need repair. We challenge every facet of law enforcement involvement and emphasize every positive that could benefit you.

The timing of your report of a DUI arrest is extremely important. Evidence can be lost in hours or days. Memories of eyewitnesses can grow foggy over time. You owe it to yourself to contact us immediately if you have been picked up for drunk driving. Over 30 years of service to clients in Western Washington, The Law Offices of Smith and White has proven that we can help.

In Washington, a DUI conviction cannot be erased or expunged. It stays on your record forever. Punishments – even for a first offense – can include up to a year in jail, five years’ probation, a mandatory ignition interlock device on your motor vehicle, mandatory alcohol treatment, loss of your driver’s license and substantial fines that could drain your personal finances for a long, long time. Five or more DUIs can amount to a potential felony charge.

To turn back these serious challenges and return to the road, you need serious representation that protects your rights. You can find it at The Law Offices of Smith and White, PLLC, in Tacoma. Skilled DUI defense lawyers Derek Smith and James White have handled thousands of DUI cases of all kinds during their nearly 40 years of combined experience. They protect your rights at every turn in the DUI legal process, from administrative hearings and criminal charges to negotiation with prosecutors or litigation of your case in court.

Act immediately to protect your rights if you have been arrested for DUI in Washington. Too many things can go wrong with a DUI arrest to simply plead guilty and accept harsh, life-changing punishments you don’t deserve. Contact our attorneys today so we can talk to you about what happened and begin investigating your charges.

We respond promptly to e-mails and overnight messages.

Want quick advice before you get a DUI? See James J White’s blog article on The Universal Tool. In a nutshell for DUI or any criminal charge situation, anytime law enforcement is contacting you; you should have one tool handy. “Officer, am I free to go? If not, then I’d like an attorney.” An attorney is on call 24 hours a day 7 days a week across the entire state of Washington. No, that will not be a Smith & White attorney but you can contact us later. For now, get a lawyers help immediately

Client Reviews
★★★★★
I was represented by James White and have been nothing but satisfied with the outcome. Jame is very efficient and eliminates much of the stress that the judicial system can place on an offender. I am very grateful to have such a great attorney and owe him my gratitude for helping me when times were rough. Not only is he professional, but he is also someone you can talk to on a personal level. I highly recommend James White and would undoubtedly use him again in the future. If you are in search of an attorney, do yourself a favor and have the law offices of Smith & White represent you. Mike D.
★★★★★
I contacted James after my charge for reckless endangerment, and right from the start he was informative and reassuring. James worked hard to get me the best possible outcome, and was always very quick to return a call or text. He was straightforward and honest with me about my case, explaining both the good and the bad in a way that was reassuring without being misleading. Overall, I highly recommend Smith and White to anyone who is looking for the most professional representation in their legal matters. Matthew B.
★★★★★
Attorney James White was a beacon of hope for me at a time when my options appeared limited and the likeness of a satisfactory resolution seemed close to nothing. Not only was he able to defend me in a specific sticky situation in which I hired him for, I felt as though he also went above and beyond in efforts to provide me with the best outcome possible. His calm and professional demeanor offered such a great assurance to myself and those I care about around me. I am completely grateful for his service and I most definitely recommend Mr. White. Leyasha J.
★★★★★
Derek Smith guided us through a troubling legal situation with absolute professionalism. This was my first experience with a trial situation and Mr. Smith was able to address all of my questions and concerns in a way that helped address some of the fear I had regarding the legal system. Mr. Smith was highly effective during the trial and the result ended up in our favor. Legal troubles are scary and it was great knowing we had a fantastic legal team on our side to help navigate the somewhat confusing situation. My wife and I emphatically recommend this law firm. Steve B.
★★★★★
Mr. Smith was wonderful to work with. He was professional, knowledgeable and effective!! He takes the time to listen, which is amazing and can be a hard quality to find! He is informative and straight forward, which I truly appreciate! He was quite helpful on another matter that I asked his advise on. Thank you!!! Melika