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What is going to happen after getting a DUI?

On Behalf of | Feb 11, 2020 | Uncategorized |

You know that a DUI is a serious criminal offense in Washington and that it can result in various penalties that can alter the course of your life. From your ability to drive yourself to work to your employment opportunities, an arrest for drunk driving can have lasting effects. Thankfully, it is possible to confront these charges with an effective defense strategy.

One of the things that may prove helpful is to know what to expect in the aftermath of your arrest. This can help you protect your rights and start working on your defense strategy as soon as possible. Your future interests and personal freedoms are worth protecting, starting from the moment police pull you over in a suspected DUI traffic stop.

What is going to happen?

One of the most difficult aspects of facing criminal charges is being unfamiliar with the criminal justice system and not knowing what to expect. When facing criminal charges associated with intoxicated driving, you can expect the following things: 

  • After an arrest, you will be booked at the police station, which will involve taking your mug shot and fingerprinting you. You will also receive notification about when you will need to appear in court at the time of your arrest.
  • You will appear in court on the date and at the time specified in your summons. At this point, you will have the opportunity to plead not guilty to the charges if you choose to do so.
  • You will lose your driver’s license for a period of time. You may apply for permission to drive for limited reasons, such as going to work, school, doctor appointments and other necessary places.
  • At this point, you may also have to face some penalties, including paying an expensive fine or possibly going to jail. There could also be requirements that include mandatory alcohol treatment classes or installation of an ignition interlock device.

The aftermath of a DUI is complicated, and a lot is at stake. This is much more than just an inconvenience – it could lead to consequences that will affect you for years down the road. Because of the serious nature of these charges, you will find it beneficial to seek defense counsel as soon as possible after your arrest. 

You have the right to defend yourself against any type of criminal charge. You can challenge the evidence against you, confront the prosecution’s case and present evidence that supports your defense. To learn more about how to do this, you can start by seeking an assessment of your case.

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