Experienced DUI Criminal Defense Litigators
Our Lynnwood, Washington, law firm has extensive experience providing DUI defense and trial representation. Our lawyers review your case with a focus on preventing a conviction and minimizing your consequences.
Washington carries some of the most complex DUI penalties in the United States. Our attorneys understand that your DUI defense case involves a two-step process. Initially following an arrest, if a breath or blood test is administered and the results are a 0.08 or greater, the Department of Licensing (DOL) will seek to administratively suspend or revoke your driver's license. Our office provides representation at administrative Department of Licensing (DOL) hearings. At the same time or shortly after the administrative process, the state will likely file a DUI charge relating to your arrest. We can review the evidence and factors of your case to establish a defense suited to your unique circumstances.
Evidence Against You
At Moriarty & Associates, P.L.L.C., we understand the seriousness of being charged with DUI. DUIs carry mandatory penalties including jail, fines, license suspension/revocation, ignition interlock installation and drug/alcohol counseling. Patrick Moriarty has been defending clients charged with DUI for over 15 years. In addition to his defense experience, he has the unique perspective of having worked as a former prosecutor for the City of Seattle, prosecuting people charged with driving under the influence and other crimes.
In Washington, breath and/or blood tests are administered to gauge your blood alcohol level (BAC) at the time of your arrest. Washington law defines driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) as operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher or driving a vehicle when your ability to drive is affected by the consumption of alcohol or drugs. For individuals under the age of 21, this legal limit is 0.02. If a driver arrested for suspected DUI refuses to submit to a mandatory breath or blood test, his or her license will be revoked for at least one year.
Breath/Blood Test Refusal
A refusal to submit to a breath or blood test can increase potential penalties for charges of DUI. For instance, if you have no prior DUI charges, you could face a mandatory minimum two days in jail for refusing your test and the fine increases by several hundred dollars.
Your driver's license suspension/revocation is also affected by your refusal to take a test. Instead of a mandatory 90-day suspension you could face a one-year license revocation. If you have a prior DUI history, the mandatory minimum penalties increase dramatically.
Reducing Your Charges
Moriarty & Associates makes every effort to alleviate the impact of a DUI charge. For many people accused of drunk driving, the possibility of having your charges reduced exists. We can negotiate your case with the prosecutor to try to get your charges amended to a lesser charge. Negotiations depend on the particular facts and legal circumstances of your case and your criminal record. Having your charges reduced can decrease your exposure to jail, fines and driver's license consequences.
Free Initial Consultations
We are available to discuss your DUI defense. We can be reached toll free at 888-341-5089 or 425-329-4770. You may also send us an e-mail.
