SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES.
possible outcomes in your case, you need the sound advice of an
experienced DUI defense attorney.
When you are arrested for a DUI, two distinct procedures are triggered: a
COURT CASE and an ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION.
The COURT CASE and ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION happen at the same time
and are, for the most part, independent of one another. So, you could be
found not guilty of the DUI charge in the court case, but still have your
license suspended by the Department of Licensing in an administrative
action.
In the COURT CASE, the prosecutor will ultimately try to convict you of a
crime, impose jail time, fines and other penalties. But even at your
arraignment, the very first court hearing, your rights are in jeopardy
because the prosecutor will try impose certain conditions restricting your
freedom. Many of these conditions can be avoided or minimized with the
help of skilled DUI defense attorney. The next hearing, called the pretrial
hearing, will happen about a month after your arraignment. At that hearing,
the judge will want to know whether the case is going to trial or not. Ninety
percent of cases settle before trial. But you need the advice of a
knowledgeable DUI defense attorney to decide what is best for you, and, if
you decide to settle, an attorney that can get you the best possible deal. If
trial is your best option, then you need a skilled DUI defense attorney with a
lot of trial experience to maximize the likelihood of a Not Guilty verdict.
At the same time, the Department of Licensing will try to suspend your
driver's license in an ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION. Unless you request a
hearing within 30 days of your arrest, your driver's license may automatically
be suspended. The hearing is usually won or lost on technical legal
grounds. There is no doubt you need the help of an experienced DUI
defense attorney to do this hearing for you.
The severity of the court and administrative consequences that you may be
facing depends on whether you have prior alcohol-related offenses and the
breath/blood test results. The above link gives a summary of the potential
consequences.
CALL RICHARD DAVIES NOW FOR A
FREE CONSULTATION
(360) 379-8906
LOCAL EXPERIENCE MATTERS
