1st Offense DUI

1st Offense DUI in Washington State

Consequences of DUI in Washington State

It is our experience that with a knowledgeable attorney, many first time DUI offenses are reduced to a lesser charge. However, if you plead guilty or are found guilty of DUI and it is your first offense, the mandatory penalties are as follows:

If your breath or blood test is less that .15, or there is no test (not a refusal) there is a mandatory minimum 1 day in jail or 15 days of electronic home monitoring; a mandatory minimum fine, costs and assessments of $940.50; a 90 day licenses suspension; SR22 Insurance; Ignition Interlock Device for at least one (1) year; probation up to 60 months; and you will be required to obtain a Drug/Alcohol Evaluation and follow any recommended treatment; attend a DUI Victim Impact Panel.

If your breath or blood test was .15 or greater or you refused the test, there is a mandatory minimum 2 days in jail or 30 days of electronic home monitoring; a mandatory minimum fine, costs and assessments of at least $1,195.50; if you blew a .15 or greater your license will be suspended for 1 year; if you refused the test your license will be suspended for 2 years; Ignition Interlock Device for at least one (1) year; probation up to 60 months; and you will be required to obtain a Drub/Alcohol Evaluation and follow any recommended treatment; attend a DUI Victim Impact Panel.

A first offense DUI conviction carries not only the penalties imposed by the court, but there are other potential consequences. A DUI can make travel to Canada impossible, as they may not be permitted to cross the border. Many employers will terminate an employee after a DUI conviction. A DUI conviction will stay on your record forever – it is a serious criminal offense that can never be vacated or expunged. If you drive for a living and have a commercial license.