DUI Attorney in Kennewick, Washington

According to the statistics from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, there were 27,638 total DUI arrests in Washington State in 2019. In Washington State, a person may be arrested and charged with DUI for operating or driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A defendant convicted of drunk driving faces devastating potential penalties, including massive fines, lengthy imprisonment, a criminal record, and other social ramifications. 

If you're facing DUI/DWI charges, it is imperative that you retain an aggressive and highly-skilled Washington State criminal defense attorney for proper guidance. Nicholas George Law Firm PLLC is committed to providing reliable representation and comprehensive legal guidance to clients in their drunk driving cases. 

In addition, Attorney Nicholas George can thoroughly investigate every last detail of your unique situation and craft an effective defense strategy in pursuit of the best available outcome for your case. He will fight vigorously to defend your legal rights and help keep your driving record clean. 

Nicholas George Law Firm PLLC is proud to serve clients across Kennewick, Washington, and surrounding areas throughout Spokane, Walla Walla, Franklin County, and Benton County.

DUI Charges in Washington  

According to Washington State DUI laws, a person is prohibited from operating or being in actual physical control of a motor vehicle: 

• While under the influence of cannabis, intoxicating liquor, or any drug 

• With a blood alcohol content (BAC) of at least 0.08% 

• With a THC concentration of at least 5.00 nanograms per milliliter of blood 

If you have been arrested and charged with a drunk driving offense in Washington State, you need to reach out to a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer right away. Your defense counsel can educate you about your rights and options regarding DUI tests when pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving and help determine your best defenses. 

DUI Tests & Your Rights 

In Washington State, a police officer may stop your vehicle on reasonable suspicion of impaired driving and request a DUI test—a field sobriety test or a chemical test. Under state laws, field sobriety testing is strictly voluntary. You're not required to submit to it, and there are no consequences for refusing. 

In contrast, the implied consent law in Washington State indicates that any licensed motorist within the state is deemed to have inherently agreed to submit to a chemical test—a blood or breath test—based on the officer's lawful request. Therefore, refusing to take a blood or breath test may lead to license revocation and other enhanced penalties. 

Possible Penalties 

The ramifications of a DUI charge in Washington State can be far-reaching. Depending on your number of prior convictions and other aggravating circumstances, the possible penalties and consequences of a DUI conviction include: 

• Huge fines and court fees 

• Jail time 

• Probation 

• License suspension or revocation 

• Community service 

• An ignition interlock device 

• Mandatory attendance of substance abuse education and prevention programs 

Other consequences may include: 

• A criminal record/history 

• Ineligibility to obtain certain financial loans 

• Increased difficulty in getting government assistance and public benefits 

• Increased auto insurance premiums 

• Loss of your rights to own, possess, or carry firearms 

• Increased difficulty in securing employment or housing opportunities 

• Deterioration of professional relationships 

• Loss of scholarships or university acceptance 

A skilled Washington State DUI defense attorney can fight vigorously to uphold your legal rights and help you avoid the devastating punishment of a criminal conviction. 

Ignition Interlock Program  

Following a DUI conviction in Washington State, the person may be required to use a mandatory ignition interlock device. The ignition interlock device (IID) is a small, handheld breathalyzer or breath-test machine that is connected to a car's ignition system to prevent the driver from starting the vehicle after consuming alcohol. Once the IID has been installed, you must breathe into the device before starting your car. The court will decide how long you will need an IID. 

Get Trusted Legal Action Today  

A Washington State DUI charge can have significant long-term consequences on your quality of life and your future opportunities. Defending your drunk driving accusation without experienced representation could increase your risk of suffering the maximum punishment. When facing DUI charges, you need to hire a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney for trusted legal advocacy. 

Attorney Nicholas George has devoted his career to offering outstanding legal services and defending individuals wrongfully arrested for driving under the influence. Using his extensive knowledge, he can help you navigate the Washington State criminal justice system and represent you in every phase of the legal process.