People who are arrested and charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in the state of Washington often ask whether a DWI defense lawyer in Kent, WA is really necessary: in most cases, the answer is an unequivocal “yes.” Most people do need a DWI lawyer in the state of Washington due to the state’s very tough DWI laws. Even a first DWI conviction can be very serious and have an extremely negative impact on a person’s life.
The penalties for a first DWI conviction can include a fine of $865.50 to $5,000. People arrested for the first time for a DWI can be jailed for anywhere from a day to an entire year. Driving privileges are automatically suspended for a minimum of three months, but can be suspended for as long as a full year. People who get a first DWI conviction are also required to have an Ignition Interlock Device, a device that measures blood alcohol content, installed in their vehicles once they get their driver’s license back.
With a second and third DWI conviction, the penalties become far tougher. Fines of up to $5,000 may be assessed, and the convicted person may lose their ability to drive a car for up to four years. Because the state of Washington takes DWI convictions so seriously, an equally serious approach to defense is needed. Some people think that their cases might be hopeless because they clearly tested as intoxicated during their breath test or blood test. However, it is important to realize that tests are not infallible, and neither are the police officers who administer those tests. Mistakes may be made during testing or during the arrest, and a skilled DWI attorney will recognize those mistakes and use them to their client’s advantage. If the police officer acted improperly in any way, the DWI conviction might never have to occur. Even if a conviction is inevitable, a good lawyer can make sure their clients get the lightest penalties possible.
If you think you might need a DWI defense lawyer in Kent, WA, contact Woods Law Office, PLLC. They are experienced DWI lawyers who can advise you on the best path to take.
