DUI / DWI Defense in Washington

Washington DUI carries mandatory minimum penalties escalating with BAC level and prior offenses. First offense with BAC 0.08-0.14% requires minimum 1 day jail and $940 fine. BAC 0.15%+ requires minimum 2 days jail and $1,195 fine. Attorney fees range $3,000-$6,000 for first DUI. Washington has an administrative license suspension through DOL hearings — defendants have only 7 days from arrest to request a hearing. Deferred prosecution (a unique Washington program) allows first-time DUI defendants to enter treatment instead of facing trial, but requires completion of a 2-year treatment program and 5-year probation. Felony DUI applies to fourth offense within 10 years or prior vehicular assault convictions. Ignition interlock requirements apply to all DUI convictions. Seattle and King County have specialized DUI courts.