The penalties that are enacted by state and local law for certain violations are intended to reflect the socially perceived severity of the crime that they are supposed to address. It should come as no surprise then that the punishment for even a first DUI offense in the state of Washington can be quite substantial, without even beginning to take into account the far-reaching effects that a DUI charge or conviction might have on your family, social, and work life. Without adequate legal representation, you are apt to encounter harsher punishment than you would otherwise be given.

The Seattle DUI defense lawyers of Cowan Kirk Gaston understand that people make mistakes and believe that you deserve an experienced legal advocate as you face the charges that have been filed against you. To begin protecting your interests, contact us at 866-822-1230 to speak directly with an attorney who can help.

The Penalties With and Without Breathalyzer Submission

When a police officer pulled you over because he or she believed that you were intoxicated, you were likely subjected to questioning and possibly one or more tests designed to ascertain the level of your impairment. One of the few mechanical measures used is the administration of a breathalyzer test. Whether a driver is legally bound to submit to a breathalyzer test is a matter that remains hotly contested, but there are harsher penalties imposed on a driver who refuses to do so.

The penalties for a first offense with a breathalyzer reading under .15 % include:

• 1 day minimum in jail, 1 year maximum
• Fine of $823-$5,000
• Suspension of license for 90 days
• SR-22 Proof of Insurance
• Probationary license for 5 years
• Monitored probation, ignition interlock, and alcohol treatment or counseling may be mandated

The penalties for a first offense with refusal or a breathalyzer reading above .15 %:

• 2 days minimum in jail, 1 year maximum
• Fine of $1,078-$5,000
• Revocation of license for 1 year
• SR-22 insurance
• Mandatory ignition interlock device for 1 year minimum
• Other penalties similar

Contact Us

Do not gamble with your freedom. Contact the Seattle DUI defense lawyers of Cowan Kirk Gaston at 866-822-1230.