DUI
Charged with DUI in Clark County?
You Need an Aggressive Defense Now.
A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge in Clark County, Washington, is one of the most serious and common criminal offenses. The moment you are pulled over, the clock starts ticking on a two-front battle: one in the criminal courts and the other with the Department of Licensing (DOL).
The consequences of a DUI conviction are severe and far-reaching, even for a first offense. They can include mandatory jail time, extensive fines, a long-term license suspension, and the installation of a costly ignition interlock device on your vehicle. The emotional and financial toll can be devastating, impacting your job, your family, and your freedom.
We understand the stakes. We are dedicated to providing a vigorous, strategic defense to protect your rights and minimize the impact of a DUI charge on your life.
The Two-Front Battle: DOL and Criminal Court
A DUI arrest triggers two separate legal processes you must address immediately:
The Department of Licensing (DOL) Hearing: This is a civil administrative action to suspend your driver's license. Your request must be postmarked within 7 days of the date of arrest, or within 7 days of the date the notice was given. to request a hearing to challenge the suspension. If you don't, your license will be automatically suspended. We can handle this critical process for you, fighting to save your driving privileges.
The Criminal Case: This is where you face the criminal penalties of a DUI conviction. The Prosecuting Attorney's Office and the local courts take these charges very seriously. The penalties increase significantly with each prior DUI conviction, and can even become a felony if you have three or more prior offenses within a specific timeframe.
How We Can Help
Do not try to navigate a DUI charge on your own. A single misstep can compromise your entire case. Our defense strategy is comprehensive and designed to challenge every aspect of the prosecution's evidence. We will:
Challenge the Stop: We will scrutinize the initial traffic stop to determine if the police had a legal basis to pull you over.
Contest the Field Sobriety Tests: We will evaluate whether the tests were administered correctly and if the officer’s interpretation was accurate. These tests are often subjective and unreliable.
Challenge the Breath Test: We will investigate the calibration and maintenance records of the breathalyzer machine, as well as the certification of the officer who administered the test.
Seek Reduced Charges: We will negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce your charge to a lesser offense, such as Negligent Driving or Reckless Driving, which carry significantly lighter penalties.
Explore Alternative Sentencing: We are experienced in seeking alternative sentencing options, such as electronic home monitoring or participation in the Clark County DUI Court, to help you avoid mandatory jail time.
The moments after a DUI arrest are critical. Every decision you make can affect your case. The first thing you should do is remain silent and contact an experienced DUI defense attorney.