A DUI arrest in Washington can leave you feeling overwhelmed, embarrassed, and uncertain about what comes next. The actions you take in the hours and days following your arrest can have a direct impact on your case’s outcome.
Knowing your rights, understanding the process, and making smart decisions early can protect your future and improve your chances of a better result.
Stay Calm and Cooperative
Your behavior during the arrest will be noticed and documented. Remaining calm isn’t just about keeping a level head; it can help you avoid adding any charges, such as resisting arrest or obstruction.
When the officer requests your name, address, and date of birth, provide it clearly. You are legally required to give this identifying information.
Beyond that, avoid volunteering any additional details about where you’ve been, what you’ve been doing, or whether you’ve been drinking. Even casual comments can be misinterpreted and used as evidence against you later.
For example, if you say “I only had a couple of drinks,” you may think you’re downplaying the situation, but that statement could be presented in court as an admission of drinking before driving.
Get a DUI Lawyer Right Away
One of the most important steps you can take is to contact a qualified DUI defense lawyer as soon as possible. The earlier an attorney gets involved, the sooner they can start reviewing the evidence, advising you on what to say (and what not to say), and protecting your rights during questioning and court proceedings.
A lawyer can also ensure that deadlines (like requesting a Department of Licensing hearing) are met. Waiting too long to get representation can limit your options and weaken your defense.
Document Everything While It’s Fresh
The details of your arrest are going to fade from memory quickly.
As soon as you are able, write down:
- The exact time, location, and conditions (weather, traffic, lighting) when you were stopped.
- The reason the officer gave for stopping you.
- What the officer said and did at each stage of the encounter.
- Whether you were read your rights.
- The type of field sobriety or breath tests you were asked to perform and how they were administered.
This record can help your attorney spot inconsistencies, errors, or possible violations of your rights that could be used in your defense.
Understand the Potential Consequences
In Washington, DUI penalties are severe, even for first-time offenders.
A conviction can include:
- Jail time (up to 364 days for a gross misdemeanor)
- Fines up to $5,000
- Mandatory license suspension
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
- Court-ordered alcohol or drug education and treatment
The effects don’t end there. A DUI conviction can raise your insurance rates for years, limit job opportunities, and create travel restrictions, especially to countries like Canada.
Request a DOL Hearing Immediately
You have a very limited window (usually 7 days from the date of your arrest) to request a hearing with the Washington State Department of Licensing to challenge the suspension of your driver’s license. Missing this deadline means an automatic suspension, even if your criminal case is still pending or ultimately dismissed.
Your lawyer can help you file this request and prepare for the hearing, where you’ll have the chance to present evidence and argue why you should keep your license.
Follow Your Lawyer’s Advice Completely
Once you’ve hired a Washington DUI lawyer, treat their advice as your roadmap. This might include attending all scheduled court dates, avoiding any new legal trouble, completing alcohol evaluations, or enrolling in treatment or education programs proactively.
Sometimes, these proactive steps can influence a prosecutor’s willingness to negotiate or a judge’s decision on sentencing.
For example, voluntarily completing an alcohol safety program before trial could demonstrate responsibility and potentially lead to a reduced penalty.
Stay Out of Additional Trouble
While your case is pending, maintain a clean record. Another arrest (even for something unrelated) can harm your credibility in court and close off certain legal options your lawyer might have pursued.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Every DUI case moves through several stages: arrest, arraignment, pretrial motions, and potentially trial. The sooner you start preparing, the more time your attorney has to examine evidence, identify legal issues, and negotiate with the prosecution.
Waiting too long can mean missed opportunities for a better outcome.
Take Control of Your Case Today
Being arrested for a DUI in Washington is serious, but it doesn’t have to define your future. With the right legal representation and a proactive approach, you can protect your rights, fight for the best possible resolution, and move forward with confidence.
Contact Scott Lawrence of Snohomish Law Group today for a free consultation. The steps you take right now can make all the difference.
