I know that the penalty for DUI offense here in Washington involves jail time. I’m not quite sure though for how long. Can you tell me? Also, can you tell me the other penalties for DUI conviction?

Beth

Olympia, WA

Sure Beth!

For first time offenders, the penalty for DUI offense in Washington includes a jail time for 24 hours up to one year. However, instead of a jail time, the court may allow you to serve a 15-day home electronic monitoring program, which is the minimum time.

Moreover, the fine would be $350 to $5,000. Also, your operating privileges would be suspended for 3 months minimum or 90 days. And after a month or 30 days, you may get a restricted license depending on the court’s ruling. Also, you may be required to get an ignition interlock for your car which you would pay personally.

It would never be a good idea to be cited for a DUI offense. As you can see, the DUI penalty is serious. Plus, once convicted of DUI, your auto insurance rates will be astronomical. And you will be labeled as a high risk driver and this normally makes it difficult for DUI offenders to get insurance provider that would insure them.

Meanwhile, if you are looking for ways on how you can lower DUI insurance rates, you can use the Internet. Shopping for DUI insurance through the Internet can give you affordable DUI insurance rates. So start getting your insurance quotes now to save on your insurance premiums.

Here is the situation; my dad was driving drunk on his way home to our Lakewood’s residence. A police pulled him over and charged him with DUI. Now, he is on trial waiting for his conviction. I want to know what are the possible punishments with regard to DUI in Washington.

Justin

Lakewood WA

Hi ya Justin,

Kinda a sad situation knowing about your dad facing a trial for DUI charges. My mom who loves to drink, was in the same footing with your dad right now. As far as I can remember, the Washington DUI lawyer that my mom hired told us, that the possible punishments that she will be facing will be the following:

1. Jail time (one year for first time offenders)
2. Fines ($5,000 for first time offenders)
3. Suspension or Revocation of Driver’s License
4. Electronic Home Detention
5. Ignition Interlock

A lot is at stake when being charged and convicted of DUI, right here at Washington. Just like my mom, she was a first time offender. She was in jail for a year and even had a fine of $5,000. If your dad is a first time offender, there is a greater chance of having same punishment as my mom did.

Don’t lose hope, your dad had a chance not to be convicted if he has the best Washington DUI lawyer to defend him and make sure to have all the possible remedies and apply the laws into your dad’s side. Winning the case is just a step away only if the Washington DUI lawyer your father hired is a competent one.