Kirkland DUI Attorney
The state of Washington has some of the toughest DUI laws, and the consequences for a conviction can lead to heavy fines and possible jail time. By working with a Kirkland DUI lawyer, you can greatly improve your odds of avoiding serious penalties. An attorney can protect your rights and fight your criminal charges by scrutinizing the evidence used against you and examining whether your rights were violated during your arrest.
Why Choose Peters Associates, LLC?
If you are facing DUI charges, you need the legal services of a law firm that gets results. The attorneys at Peters Associates, LLC, understand the state’s DUI laws and how to get clients favorable outcomes in their cases. From the outset, we’ll carefully go over your charges so you understand your options and the potential outcomes for your case.
We Handle Federal Drug Possession
& Distribution Cases
In Wyoming & the Western District of Washington
We’ll provide a free consultation with a knowledgeable attorney from Peters Associates serving Bellevue, WA, Wyoming and throughout King County
As we gather evidence and examine the prosecution’s evidence, we’ll look for weaknesses in the state’s case. Any step we take to chip away at the prosecution’s case can improve your chances for dropped or reduced charges. In some cases, a favorable plea bargain agreement can allow you to put the entire ordeal behind you.
Understanding DUI Charges in Kirkland
In Kirkland, Washington, a DUI charge can result from having a blood alcohol content level (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Commercial truck drivers can be charged with a DUI if they have a BAC of only 0.04%.
The presence of any alcohol can constitute a DUI for someone under the legal drinking age of 21. A DUI is not solely for alcohol consumption. Anyone who is under the influence of drugs, both illegal and prescription, can be charged with this crime.
If your DUI involved fleeing the scene of an accident, a Kirkland hit and run DUI lawyer can help mitigate the enhanced penalties, which often include felony charges and prolonged license suspensions.
DUI License Suspensions
An arrest for a DUI could lead to two types of separate license suspensions. Upon arrest, your license is suspended unless you request a hearing to contest the suspension within seven days of your initial arrest. You have the right to have an attorney during the hearing.
If the examiner rules in your favor, you will retain your driving privileges. If you do not request a hearing or the examiner rules against you, your license will be suspended from three months to two years. The outcome of your DUI will also determine whether you retain your driver’s license. A DUI conviction can lead to a lengthy suspension of the defendant’s driver’s license.
Potential Defense Strategies to Fight DUI Charges
With legal representation from an attorney, you can fight your DUI charges. One approach involves questioning the accuracy and reliability of the evidence used by the prosecution. If the breathalyzer used by the arresting officer was not carefully calibrated beforehand, that could mean that the results of the test are deemed inadmissible. If a field sobriety test was conducted, your attorney could question how the test was conducted.
For repeat offenses, a Kirkland multiple DUI lawyer can challenge prior convictions’ validity or negotiate alternatives to mandatory jail time, such as treatment programs. Law enforcement must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over; if they lacked cause, your rights may have been violated.
Law enforcement must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over. If they had no reason to pull you over, that means that your rights may have been violated. Presenting mitigating evidence could also lead to a favorable plea bargain if you have no prior criminal record or take steps to address substance use disorder, which could provide grounds for prosecutors to offer a favorable plea bargain agreement.
Why Legal Representation Is Critical
An attorney is a critical ally who can protect your rights and ensure that you do not face the harshest penalties under the law. The consequences of an arrest can be immediate. You could face having your driving privileges revoked. Your attorney can take steps to protect your driving privileges so you can continue to drive to work as your case is resolved.
An attorney can closely examine the evidence used against you to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. For the state to find someone guilty of committing a crime, they must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
This high standard can favor a defendant when they have an experienced and knowledgeable criminal defense attorney. Lawyers are also skilled negotiators who can work with prosecutors to find fair outcomes in criminal cases.
FAQs About Kirkland, WA DUI Law
DUI attorney fees vary based on experience, location, and case complexity. Many lawyers charge a flat fee or hourly rate, with higher costs if the case goes to trial. Additional expenses may include court fees, expert witnesses, and administrative costs. Consulting a DUI lawyer can help clarify specific legal fees and payment options.
A first-time DUI in California often leads to fines, probation, DUI education programs, and possible license suspension. Some cases may involve community service or ignition interlock device requirements. Jail time is rare for first offenses but depends on aggravating factors. A DUI lawyer can negotiate for reduced penalties or alternative sentencing when possible.
The ideal plea bargain offer depends on case details, evidence strength, and prior offenses. Many DUI cases result in plea bargains for lesser charges, such as reckless driving. A lawyer may negotiate for a wet reckless or dry reckless plea, which carries lighter penalties. Consulting a DUI attorney can work towards the optimal resolution for your case based on your unique circumstances.
Dismissal depends on evidence, police procedures, and legal challenges. Cases with improper stops, faulty breath tests, or rights violations may be dismissed. A skilled DUI lawyer can challenge the prosecution’s case, question officer testimony, or negotiate lesser charges. While dismissal is possible, each case varies, and legal representation improves the chances of a favorable outcome.
Contact Kirkland DUI Lawyer
A DUI is a serious criminal charge that can have lasting consequences. At Peters Associates, LLC, we provide strong and strategic legal representation to defendants in Kirkland. We understand the strain you are under, and you can trust us to develop criminal defense strategies that work to have your charges dropped or reduced.
If a favorable plea bargain agreement is offered, we’ll explain the benefits and potential drawbacks of accepting that offer. Contact our office today to schedule your free initial consultation.
Choose a Bellevue, WA Law Firm With
Experience in DUI Defense
Hire Peters Associates to represent you in court Call today for a free consultation