Have You Been Arrested for DUI in Seattle?
If the answer is “yes”, make sure that you call an experienced DUI defense attorney right away. For many people, a driving under the influence arrest is their first time dealing with the criminal justice system. As such, they may not be properly informed of their rights and may make poor decisions.
The first piece of information that everyone who is accused of DUI in Washington must understand is that their driver's license can be suspended after their arrest if immediate action is not taken! According to the law, anyone who is arrested for suspicion of driving or in physical control of the vehicle while under the influence will be subject to an administrative license suspension that is unrelated to their criminal charges. Fortunately, this process can be challenged with the aid of your defense team.
Your ability to drive is very important. Many people depend on their vehicle to get them to and from important places like school and work and allows them to care for their families. Losing their license would be a huge inconvenience and could even hurt their career or education. For more information about administrative license suspension and how you can fight it, call our office right away.
What is Administrative DUI License Suspension?
After a driver in Washington is accused of driving or being in physical control of a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) will suspend your license. It is important to realize that this suspension is not related to your sentencing for the DUI offense, which could also result in license suspension.
When you are given a driver's license in the U.S., you are agreeing to abide by certain terms. One of these terms is that you will not drive under the influence. An arrest is seen as a violation of these terms and leaves you subject to suspension. The length of license suspension will vary depending on whether or not you have any previous DUI convictions on your record. For a first time offender, the suspension period is usually 90 days and can be as much as 2 years for repeat offenders. Additionally, if you are convicted in your criminal case, additional license suspension could be added.
The only way to avoid administrative suspension by the DOL is to challenge the process by requesting a hearing. This must be a formal request and it must be sent within 20 days of your arrest. There is no need to worry however, when you hire a DUI attorney they will handle filing this request on your behalf; but that is only if you call an attorney immediately after your arrest.
What is a DOL Hearing?
The purpose of an administrative hearing is to argue that your DUI arrest was unfounded and, therefore, you should not be subject to the administrative license suspension. This is not a trial and your lawyer will not be presenting a defense case like they would in a criminal court before a judge. Instead, a hearing examiner will sit down and review your arrest. The outcome of this hearing will have no effect on your criminal trial meaning that a DOL hearing that is successful could still result in a criminal conviction for your DUI charges.
Having a knowledgeable DUI lawyer by your side during this process is very beneficial. Your attorney will represent you in your DOL hearing and handle all of the paperwork. Even if you are unsuccessful in your DOL hearing, you may still be able to maintain your ability to drive legal through the use of a restricted license (which allows you to drive as long as it is only to work, school or medical appointments) or installation of an ignition interlock device (IID).
Why Choose Attorney Steve Karimi?
Attorney Karimi is an experienced DUI defense lawyer with a long history of getting his clients great results. He began his career as a prosecutor for Washington State and has gained an insight that allows him to thoroughly understand the Seattle criminal justice system. In addition to understanding the laws, Attorney Karimi knows that best arguments to make and the best methods to getting the deserted outcome for his DUI clients.
When you call our office, Attorney Karimi will get right to work fighting for your rights. He begins by requesting a hearing with the DOL in order to challenge administrative license suspension. Additionally, he will do everything possible to make sure that you do not lose your ability to drive. This may require applying for a restricted license or looking into installing an IID. To find out more about what a DUI lawyer can do for you, call us right now to set up a free consultation.