Successful DUI Defense in Pasco, Kennewick, Richland, and surrounding Tri-Cities, Washington area in Benton and Franklin County courts.
Few offenses demand greater legal skills than cases involving driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol. At Rodriguez Law, we are skilled in both scientific and legal intricacies involving DUI defense. DUI legal challenges encompass a broad spectrum of issues, including search and seizure, due process, illegal interrogation, denial of counsel, and matters concerning evidence. In the context of a DUI case, these legal aspects intersect with scientific domains such as anatomy, biology, chemistry, physiology, and toxicology, along with quasi-scientific areas like field sobriety testing. We possess a comprehensive understanding of the functioning of breath test equipment, hospital testing tools, and instruments employed by forensic laboratories during the testing process for intoxicating substances. Our years of experience have resulted in skills that set us apart in DUI defense.
Whether this is your first, or second, or you are facing a felony DUI, revocation of your deferred prosecution, a probation violation with new charges, or licensing issues, rest assured that we have helped hundreds of people reach favorable outcomes in all these circumstances. We provide our clients with a level of service designed to ease stress as they face the many facets involved with a DUI charge.
Rodriguez Law’s strong DUI motions practice was built on our extensive and up-to-date knowledge of DUI law, issue spotting, strong writing abilities, and effective negotiation skills. This has played a vital role in achieving outcomes for countless satisfied clients across Eastern Washington. With a solid understanding of the local legal landscape, including the prosecutors, judges, and law enforcement involved in your case, we can guide you on the best DUI defense strategy.
Rodriguez Law understands the far-reaching impact that a DUI conviction can have on your life, and we are dedicated to protecting the potential repercussions that can follow you for years to come.
By entrusting your case to Rodriguez Law, we can simplify the resolution process, minimize costs, and expedite the timeline by resolving your case, many times without needing a trial. Through relentless pursuit during pre-trial proceedings, our team reduces the risks associated with a trial by meticulously preparing your case as if it were going to trial. This approach often leads to successful outcomes for our clients.
However, if a pre-trial resolution cannot be reached, our team is fully prepared to provide you with the best defense at trial. With years of practicing in Washington courts, Rodriguez Law brings an exceptional advantage to your case. You will witness our ability to identify compelling evidence and craft winning defense strategies. Countless success stories from past clients illustrate the power of our strategic approach.
With an in-depth knowledge of DUI laws and a keen understanding of the legal intricacies involved, our firm possesses the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of your case.
At Rodriguez Law, we understand the gravity of DUI charges and the impact on your license, livelihood, and overall life. We combine our DUI defense experience, dedication, and relentless advocacy to give you the most vigorous defense possible. Trust our team to guide you through every step of the process and safeguard your rights. We are dedicated to our clients as a resource of support for the success of their future.
Contact us today for a consultation and let our experience and tenacity work in your favor.
Frequently Asked Questions
DUI
Act now to protect your driving privileges. It’s crucial to consult with a lawyer immediately, as failing to request a hearing from the Department of Licensing within seven days of your arrest can lead to severe consequences of license loss. At Rodriguez Law, we handle both administrative proceedings and criminal court cases or infraction cases associated with your DUI charges. Our office will request a hearing for you and keep you informed along the way. If you fail to request a DOL hearing to contest the suspension, keep an eye on your mail, as DOL will send you notice of when your license will be suspended, typically 30 days from your arrest. You may continue driving legally until your suspension date. We will guide you and hold your hand through the steps necessary to continue lawfully driving during the suspension with a restricted license, ignition interlock, and SR 22 insurance.
As part of your conditions of release, and during the pendency of your DUI court case, driving on a suspended license can have severe implications on your case and result in new criminal charges. It may not seem like a big deal, but it can impact your freedom, bail, finances, and our defense strategy for your pending DUI case.
Our experienced team is well-versed in DUI defense and is here to guide you through every aspect of your case. Don’t face the repercussions alone. Contact us today.
A DUI can be resolved in various ways, such as:
- Dismissal
- Reduction to a non-DUI charge
- Reduction of Penalties for DUI and other related charges
- Acquittal at trial
- Deferred Prosecution
Empowering Your Decision: Navigating the Path Ahead with Confidence:
As we embark on this journey together, understand that some potential resolutions have significant consequences. These consequences can impact various aspects of your life, including your freedom, employment, driver’s license status, commercial driver’s license status, and future opportunities. Our utmost priority is to support you in finding the best course of action that aligns with your goals and safeguards your future. We encourage you to schedule a consultation with Rodriguez Law so that you can seek answers and clarity to make a well-informed decision.
When facing a DUI charge in Washington State, several common strategies can potentially lead to a dismissal or reduction of the charges. As your dedicated legal team, we will explore these options with confidence and compassion to guide you through this challenging time.
Challenging the Stop
We will carefully examine whether the traffic stop was valid or if there was a proper legal reason for the officer to pull you over. If we find any issues with the stop, such as a lack of probable cause, we can challenge the evidence obtained after the stop.
Questioning Field Sobriety Tests
We will evaluate the administration of field sobriety tests and look for potential issues, such as improper training of the officer or factors unrelated to intoxication that may have affected your performance. Challenging the accuracy of these tests can help the outcome of your case.
Contesting Breathalyzer or Blood Tests
We will examine the procedures followed during the administration of breathalyzer or blood tests. If there are concerns about calibration, administration, or equipment maintenance, we can challenge the accuracy and reliability of these tests.
Considering Rising Blood Alcohol Content
We will investigate whether your blood alcohol content (BAC) was rising at the time of testing, potentially leading to a higher reading later on. This defense can involve expert testimony and evidence to support your case.
Exploring Medical Conditions or Medications
We will assess if any medical conditions or medications you were taking might have influenced the test results. This information can help challenge the accuracy of the tests and build a strong defense strategy.
Identifying Procedural Errors
We will review the arrest and investigation process for any procedural errors or violations of your rights. If we find any, we can use these issues to your advantage, potentially leading to the exclusion of evidence or even dismissal of the case.
Evaluating the Strength of the Evidence
Our team will analyze the prosecution’s evidence and assess its sufficiency. If we find weaknesses or gaps that cast doubt on their case, we will vigorously advocate for your rights and strive for the best possible outcome.
Power of Negotiation
When it comes to the outcome of a legal case, the power of negotiation should never be underestimated. It is important to recognize that every client has a unique background, circumstances, and a journey of personal progress. These factors can significantly influence the direction and potential resolution of a case. During the negotiation process, we leverage our wealth of experience in DUI defense on behalf of our clients, highlighting their individual circumstances and efforts toward progress.
Remember, you are not alone in this process. We are here to support you with confidence, compassion, and a personalized approach. By working together, we will explore these strategies and fight to protect your rights and achieve the best possible result.
Please reach out to us to schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you navigate through this challenging time and providing you with the dedicated legal representation you deserve.
Under RCW 46.61.502, driving under the influence (DUI) in Washington State carries significant penalties. In general, the penalties, in summary, are:
License Suspension:
Upon a DUI conviction, the offender’s driver’s license may be suspended for a period determined by the court. This means the individual will be prohibited from operating a motor vehicle during the suspension period.
Note: A separate administrative process through DOL may suspend your license before a conviction. Our firm is skilled at representing clients through those proceedings, and we carefully strategize our criminal case defense with DOL proceedings for the best outcome that can save you time and money. Our team will guide you through this complex process.
Fines
A DUI conviction can result in substantial penalties imposed by the court. The fine amount may vary depending on factors such as the number of prior offenses and the severity of the DUI incident.
Note: Through defending a few thousand DUI cases throughout the years, we can estimate what a possible fine will be and work hard to save you as much as possible considering the overall cost of a DUI that can result related to your license, classes, monitoring devices, and so forth.
Jail Time
DUI convictions carry mandatory minimum jail sentences; a court may impose a lengthy incarceration term for repeat DUI offenders or cases involving aggravated circumstances.
Note: Although there are mandatory minimum sentences, we have successfully secured alternative sentencing options for clients who could not serve a jail sentence for factors such as physical health, jobs, or other legal proceedings. Alternative sentences are not given lightly in DUI cases, and your lawyer should possess extensive knowledge of recent changes to the sentencing laws in Washington. With our experience, we can formulate a strategy to reach this outcome if warranted. We work with our clients to gather the necessary information to prepare for a sentencing hearing and or through our negotiations with a prosecutor to reach a joint resolution.
Ignition Interlock Device
As part of the penalty, individuals convicted of DUI may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle. This device serves as a breathalyzer, testing the driver’s breath for alcohol before allowing the car to start. The IID aims to prevent intoxicated driving by ensuring the driver is alcohol-free.
Note: Depending on your DUI history, this device, an at-home device, or a scram bracelet may also be required during the pre-trial phase. IID may be required as part of the outcome of the DOL administrative proceeding before a conviction. Suppose DOL suspends your license before a sentence, and you installed an ignition interlock to continue driving legally during the suspension. In that case, DOL will credit the months previously suspended to the conviction requirement. Contact our office to understand the complex DOL aspects involved with a DUI.
Alcohol Education or Treatment
To address the underlying issues related to driving under the influence, the court will order individuals convicted of DUI to participate in alcohol education or treatment programs.
Note: If you must complete these conditions, our office will provide you with a list of trusted referral agencies. We simplify things for you by holding your hand through this process so you can move forward successfully and at the least cost.
Under RCW 46.61.502, which addresses DUI offenses in Washington State. In determining the severity of DUI penalties, various factors come into play. Some of these factors include, but are not limited to, the presence of passengers in the vehicle, mainly if they are minors, any prior DUI convictions within the past seven years, involvement in an accident, and displaying highly confrontational behavior towards the arresting officer, among other things. To fully understand the specific implications and consequences relevant to your situation, we can advise you in a consultation. Below is a summary, but please note that this does not cover all circumstances.
First-Time DUI Offense
Standard jail time: 1 day to 1 year (actual jail time can vary within this range). Alternative sentencing options: Electronic home monitoring, work release programs, or other alternatives may be considered.
Repeat DUI Offenses
Longer jail time: Repeat offenses generally result in longer jail sentences than first-time offenses. Minimum sentences: Washington law mandates minimum jail terms for individuals with multiple DUI convictions. The minimums can range from 30 days to several months, depending on the number of prior convictions and your BAC level.
Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC)
BAC above the legal limit of 0.08 can enhance penalties, potentially leading to longer jail time. The specific increase in jail time can vary based on the judge’s discretion and the circumstances of the case.
Higher BAC (e.g., above 0.15%): If the BAC is significantly higher, the penalties, including longer jail sentences, can be more severe.
It is important to note that this is a general summary, and the actual jail sentences can vary based on the judge’s discretion, the defendant’s criminal history, and the specific details of the case. To fully understand the potential jail sentences and their application in your particular situation, schedule a consult, and we can advise you accordingly.
Aggravating Circumstances
Reckless Endangerment: If you have children in your car at the time of your arrest, penalties for jail sentences increase.
Reckless Driving
If the DUI offense involves reckless driving, it can lead to additional penalties, such as longer jail sentences.
Causing Injury or Death
DUI incidents that result in injury or death can have severe consequences, including substantial jail time and other legal repercussions.
When individuals are arrested for a DUI in Washington State, it’s completely normal to have concerns and fears. However, it’s important to remember that you have options and resources available to navigate this situation. Our team has helped many individuals facing the same situation, and these are the most common concerns expressed by our clients at our initial consultation.
Legal Consequences
One of the most prevalent fears is the potential legal consequences of a DUI arrest. This can include fines, probation, mandatory alcohol education programs, license suspension, ignition interlock device requirements, and even incarceration, especially for repeat offenses.
Impact on Driving Privileges
Losing the ability to drive is a significant concern for many individuals. The fear of a suspended or revoked driver’s license can impact daily life, including commuting to work, fulfilling family responsibilities, and maintaining personal independence.
Financial Impact
DUI convictions often come with substantial economic consequences. Fines, court fees, legal representation costs, increased insurance premiums, and potential loss of employment due to a criminal record can cause financial strain and worry.
Social and Professional Repercussions
A DUI arrest’s social and professional consequences can be distressing. The fear of damaging personal relationships, reputation, and future employment prospects can weigh heavily on individuals. A DUI conviction may also affect professional licenses or result in the loss of job opportunities, particularly in specific fields.
Criminal Record
The fear of having a permanent criminal record can be distressing. A DUI conviction can have long-term implications, potentially affecting future employment prospects, housing applications, educational opportunities, and other aspects of life.
Impact on Personal Life
Individuals arrested for a DUI may worry about the effect on their personal life, including strained relationships with family and friends. The stigma and shame associated with a DUI arrest can be emotionally challenging.
Alcohol and Substance Abuse Concerns
A DUI arrest can be a wake-up call for some individuals, prompting concerns about their relationship with alcohol or substances. They may fear the potential impact on their health, well-being and the need for intervention or treatment.
It’s important to note that while these fears are common, they are not exhaustive, and the specific concerns can vary depending on individual circumstances. If you or someone you know is facing a DUI charge, please get in touch with our office so that we can provide personalized guidance and support tailored to the situation.
