Unless you’re involved in the legal world day in and day out, there are bound to be legal terms you’re unfamiliar with. If you ever find yourself facing DUI charges, however, it’s important to understand the terminology you’ll come across.
DUI Terms Glossary
Your lawyer will help with this, too, but in the meantime, here’s a glossary of terms DUI defendants should know.
Administrative License Suspension
A penalty imposed by the Department of Licensing (DOL) that suspends your driver’s license following a DUI arrest or refusal to take a chemical test. This suspension is separate from criminal penalties and can occur even if charges are dismissed later.
BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration)
The percentage of alcohol in your bloodstream. In Washington State, a BAC of 0.08% or higher is considered legally impaired for most drivers. Commercial drivers are considered impaired with a BAC of 0.04% or higher.
Breathalyzer Test
A device used to measure alcohol concentration in a person’s breath. Results are commonly used as evidence in DUI cases, but their accuracy can sometimes be challenged.
Continuance
A legal request to delay a scheduled court hearing or trial. This may be granted to allow more time for preparation or negotiation with the prosecution.
Deferred Prosecution
A program allowing defendants to avoid a DUI conviction by completing strict conditions, such as alcohol treatment programs and abstinence. Successful completion can lead to a dismissal of charges.
Discovery
The legal process where both the prosecution and defense exchange evidence, such as police reports, videos, and witness statements, to prepare for trial or negotiations.
DOL (Department of Licensing)
The Washington State agency that is responsible for overseeing driver’s license suspensions, reinstatements, and other administrative actions related to DUI arrests.
Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs)
A series of physical and cognitive tests conducted during a traffic stop to assess impairment.
Common tests include:
- The walk-and-turn
- One-leg stand
- Horizontal gaze nystagmus (eye movement test)
Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
A breath-testing device installed in a vehicle to prevent it from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver’s breath. Many DUI sentences require the use of an IID.
Implied Consent Law
A legal principle in Washington State stating that drivers automatically consent to breath or blood tests to determine impairment. Refusing these tests often results in automatic license suspension.
Physical Control
A charge applicable when a person is in a position to operate a vehicle while impaired, even if the vehicle is not moving. Examples include sitting in the driver’s seat with the keys nearby.
Plea Bargain
An agreement between the defendant and prosecutor to resolve the case without a trial. This often involves pleading guilty to a reduced charge in exchange for lighter penalties.
Probable Cause
The standard requiring law enforcement to have sufficient evidence to believe a crime has been committed before making an arrest or conducting a search.
Reasonable Suspicion
A lower standard than probable cause, allowing officers to temporarily detain someone if specific facts suggest potential criminal activity, such as erratic driving.
Sentencing Conditions
Penalties imposed following a DUI conviction, which may include fines, probation, alcohol treatment programs, community service, or jail time.
SR-22 Insurance
A certificate proving that you carry the minimum required auto insurance. This is often required for drivers with a DUI conviction to reinstate their license.
Victim Impact Panel
A program where DUI offenders hear from individuals impacted by drunk driving incidents. Attendance is often mandated as part of sentencing or deferred prosecution.
Familiarizing yourself with these terms allows you to better understand the process and engage more effectively with your attorney. This knowledge ensures you stay informed and better prepared to handle each phase of your DUI case.
Do you have more questions about the terms you read about today? Contact Snohomish Law Group for the information you’re looking for.
