Auburn Hit & Run DUI Lawyer

Auburn Hit & Run DUI Attorney

A hit and run accident combined with driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most serious charges a driver can face. The courts take this charge very seriously. An Auburn hit and run DUI lawyer can protect your rights throughout the legal process.

Peters Associates, LLC, can help you understand your legal options and advocate for you every step of the way.

What Is a DUI Hit and Run?

A DUI hit and run occurs when an individual suspected of driving under the influence (DUI) leaves the scene of an accident. Drivers are legally required to stop after an accident and fulfill certain obligations. This includes:

• Stopping at the scene
• Providing your name, driver’s license, and insurance information
• Rendering aid if someone is injured
• Contact law enforcement if necessary

The situation is more serious when alcohol is involved. Penalties can be much more significant if the prosecutor believes you left the scene to conceal impairment.

Even if no one was hurt, the charges can still be severe. Speaking with an Auburn hit and run DUI attorney immediately after your arrest can give you the strongest chance of building a successful defense strategy.

In a recent four-year span, nearly four million hit and run accidents occurred in the country, and every 85 seconds someone is hurt or killed in a DUI crash.

Hit and Run DUI Laws in Washington

Washington law is strict when it comes to DUI and hit-and-run offenses. At Peters Associates, LLC, we help you better understand your rights and responsibilities under Washington statutes.

It is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. The limit is lower for commercial drivers and drivers under the age of 21.

The state’s law requires that drivers stop after an accident. However, the severity of the charge for leaving the scene of the accident varies depending on the circumstances. A misdemeanor charge could apply if you leave the scene without identifying yourself, but if the accident results in death, you could receive a felony charge.

If a DUI and hit-and-run charge overlap, you could face multiple charges with separate penalties. Because these charges can be complex, our team works hard to evaluate your case, challenge evidence, and negotiate for reduced charges or a change in sentencing.

Hit and Run DUI Penalties in Washington

The penalties for a hit-and-run DUI conviction can impact your whole life. Consequences could include:

• Jail or prison time
• Hefty fines
• Probation
• Mandatory DUI education programs
• License suspension or long-term revocation
• Restitution to victims for damages
• Installation of an ignition interlock device

In addition to legal penalties, you could face the loss of employment or professional licensure and increased insurance rates.

What Happens After a DUI Hit and Run Accident?

After a hit-and-run DUI, you may be overwhelmed and confused about what to do next. Knowing what to expect can help you be prepared.

The typical legal process is as follows:

• Arrest and booking: Once you are identified, the police will likely arrest you on the spot or after the investigation. You will likely be brought to Kings County Jail or the South Correctional Entity Jail in Des Moines. You will be booked and must post bail.
• Criminal charges filed: Prosecutors decide whether to file charges as a misdemeanor or a felony.
• DMV proceedings: Your driver’s license will likely be suspended. However, you have a limited time to request a DMV hearing to challenge the suspension.
• Court appearances: First, you’ll have an arraignment, which involves your formal charges being read. Plea negotiations and hearings follow.
• Investigation and evidence gathering: Both the prosecution and defense work to collect evidence. This includes witness statements and the results of the chemical tests.
• Trial or settlement: Many cases settle through a plea bargain. If not, your case proceeds to trial, where a judge and jury decide penalties.

How Peters Associates, LLC, Can Help

Peters Associates, LLC, provides aggressive defense for those battling a hit and run DUI case. The sooner you contact us, the more time we have to build your defense. We can also request a DMV hearing and challenge license suspensions.

Peters Associates, LLC, has experience working with King County District Court judges and prosecutors. Our legal team is dedicated to helping residents in our community after a DUI arrest, and we fight tirelessly to protect your rights and future.

DUI Defense Lawyer Serving Auburn

Peters & Associates provides an aggressive and experienced defense for individuals facing DUI charges in Auburn. Our attorneys understand Washington’s complex DUI laws and are dedicated to protecting your rights, license, and future by challenging every aspect of the prosecution’s case.

Auburn DUI Defense Practice Areas

DUI Defense: Legal representation for clients charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, with a focus on scrutinizing the traffic stop, sobriety tests, and BAC evidence.

Multiple DUI: A specialized defense for clients facing the significantly enhanced penalties, mandatory jail time, and extended license suspensions associated with a subsequent DUI conviction.

Underage DUI: Representation for drivers under 21 facing charges under Washington’s strict “zero tolerance” law, which sets the legal BAC limit at just 0.02%.

FAQs About Auburn, WA Hit & Run DUI Law

Can a Hit-and-Run Be Dismissed in Washington State?

A hit-and-run accident in Washington can sometimes be dismissed, but only under specific circumstances. Dismissals may occur if prosecutors lack necessary evidence, if your constitutional rights were violated, or if there were problems with witness credibility. Taking prompt responsibility and cooperating with law enforcement and the courts can increase your chances of having the charges dismissed.

Can You Get a DUI After a Hit-and-Run?

Yes, it’s possible to face both DUI and hit-and-run charges from the same incident in Washington State. If law enforcement has evidence that you were driving under the influence at the time of the accident and left the scene, prosecutors can pursue both offenses. The penalties will significantly increase, including mandatory jail time, steep fines, license suspension, and a possible felony charge.

How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost in Washington State?

The cost of hiring a DUI lawyer in Washington State depends on the circumstances. The location and the attorney’s experience also play a role in costs. You can expect to pay more if there are other aggravating factors or if you have had other DUI charges in the past. When you meet with your attorney for your initial consultation, they can give you a better understanding of expected costs.

What Is the Minimum Sentence for a Hit-and-Run?

The minimum sentence for a hit-and-run in Washington depends on whether the incident involved property damage, injury, or death. For a misdemeanor hit-and-run involving only property damage, penalties can include jail time, a fine, and possibly probation. Luckily, the majority of hit and run accidents only involve property damage. Injury cases are more likely to become a felony charge, which comes with harsher penalties. A felony charge could include lengthy prison time and hefty fines.

Hire an Auburn, WA Hit and Run DUI Lawyer

Because of the serious consequences of a hit and run DUI charge, it is crucial to have skilled representation on your side. Hire a hit and run DUI lawyer today. Contact Peters Associates, LLC, to schedule a consultation. Let us get to work building a strong case that can protect your freedom and future.