Auburn DUI Lawyer

Auburn DUI Attorney

A DUI in Auburn, Washington, can have life-altering consequences. An experienced Auburn DUI lawyer can help protect your rights and fight for a better outcome in your case. The team at Peters Associates, LLC, provides aggressive representation and can walk you through every stage of the legal process.

What Constitutes a DUI Charge in Auburn, Washington?

A DUI charge happens when a person operates a vehicle under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or a combination of the two. According to the Washington State Department of Licensing, you may face a DUI charge if any of the following are true:

• Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or above while driving
• You are under 21 years old and have a BAC of 0.02% or higher
• You are operating a commercial vehicle with a BAC of over 0.04%
• You are impaired by drugs, even if your BAC is below the legal limit

In 2021, 345 deaths occurred because of DUI-related accidents. Over the past decade, drunk driving accidents have increased by 25%.

The Auburn Police Department uses field sobriety tests, portable breath tests, and chemical testing to determine impairment. Errors can occur, however. This leaves room for an Auburn DUI attorney to challenge the state’s case against you.

The Penalties of Driving Under the Influence

The penalties for DUI in Washington are tough. However, the seriousness of the penalty depends on your BAC level, whether you have had prior convictions, and whether aggravating factors are present.

A first offense comes with a one-night minimum of mandatory jail time, fines, license suspension, and the installation of an interlock device. With each additional offense, the penalties increase significantly.

In addition to the criminal penalties, you will see your insurance premiums increase. You’ll also likely need to participate in an alcohol and drug treatment program.

At Peters Associates, LLC, we work to reduce these consequences by negotiating for lesser charges, seeking alternative sentencing, or challenging the evidence against you.

Factors That Can Impact the Resolution of Your DUI Case

Every DUI case is different, and many factors can impact your case. This can include:

• Blood alcohol concentration: A higher BAC often leads to harsher penalties. The accuracy of the test can be questioned, however.
• Prior DUI convictions: Repeat offenses increase penalties.
• Refusal of chemical testing: Refusing to take a breath or blood test can result in automatic license suspension.
• Aggravating circumstances: Accidents causing injury, property damage, or having a minor in the car can escalate charges.
• Procedural errors: If the police didn’t follow procedures correctly, your rights may have been violated.
• Defense strategy: An Auburn DUI lawyer may challenge evidence, call on expert witnesses, or negotiate for reduced charges.

Peters Associates, LLC, meticulously scrutinizes all evidence and details of your arrest. We focus our strategy on identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, with a goal of dismissal, charge reduction, and lighter penalties.

What Happens Following an Auburn DUI Arrest?

Being arrested can feel overwhelming and scary. Knowing what to expect helps reduce your anxiety and gives you a better idea of how to prepare your defense.

After being pulled over, tested, and arrested, you’ll be taken to jail for booking. This can include having fingerprinting done, photographs, and a documentation of the charges. Your license may be suspended immediately by the Department of Licensing.

These hearings may involve motions to suppress evidence, negotiations, or requests for discovery. If your case ends up going to trial, the prosecution has to prove that you were impaired. A skilled Auburn DUI attorney can present defenses, challenge testing methods, and cross-examine witnesses. If convicted, sentencing follows.

Why You Should Choose Peters Associates, LLC

Peters Associates, LLC, holds a reputation for putting clients first. With years of experience, we hold extensive knowledge of Washington DUI statutes and local King County District Court procedures.

We tailor defense strategies to the unique details of your case and challenge improper police stops, inaccurate breath tests, and other legal errors. When you hire a DUI lawyer from Peters Associates, LLC, you gain an advocate who protects 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%.

Hit and Run DUI: Defense for complex cases where a DUI charge is combined with an allegation of leaving the scene of an accident, which can elevate the offense to a serious felony.

FAQs About Auburn, WA DUI Law

How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost in Washington?

The cost of hiring a DUI lawyer in Washington depends on the complexity of the case and the specific location within the state. The lawyer’s experience is also an important factor. Serious cases are more costly, especially if liability is disputed or if injuries are very serious. Some attorneys require an upfront retainer fee. Having an experienced DUI lawyer on your side can achieve a more favorable outcome for your case.

How Likely Is Jail Time for a First DUI in Washington State?

For a first-time DUI in Washington, jail time is possible. However, the length of time depends on the blood alcohol content and the case circumstances. Judges may ask for alternatives, such as electronic home monitoring. Lengthy jail time is rare for first-time offenders without aggravating factors, but a conviction can still bring serious consequences, such as fines, license suspension, and mandatory alcohol education programs.

How Do You Get a DUI Dismissed in Washington State?

Getting a DUI dismissed in Washington State can be difficult, but it may depend on the circumstances. Dismissals could be dismissed if there are police errors, improper breathalyzer maintenance, or violations of constitutional rights during the arrest. Your attorney may challenge the validity of the traffic stop, sobriety tests, or lab results. If the evidence is weak, the charges could also be dropped.

Does a DUI Go Away After Seven Years in Washington State?

A DUI conviction in Washington does not disappear from your record after seven years. Rather, DUIs remain on your driving record permanently. A DUI cannot be expunged or vacated from your criminal record under Washington law. The only thing that may change is that your insurance rates could decrease gradually over time.

Hire a DUI Lawyer in Auburn

Peters Associates, LLC, is committed to defending clients in DUI cases. We are here to guide you through every phase of the legal process after a DUI arrest. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and gain the support you need after a DUI arrest in Auburn.