Being arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Silverdale, Washington, is a serious and often overwhelming experience. If this has happened to you or someone you care about, you likely have more questions than answers right now.
What happens next? Will you lose your license? Could you go to jail? What should you do and what should you avoid doing?
At LaCross Law, we understand that this is one of the most stressful moments in your life. We’ve helped clients throughout Kitsap County navigate the complex legal landscape after a DUI arrest, and we’re here to help you understand your rights, protect your future, and take control of what happens next.
What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Silverdale?
When someone is arrested for DUI in Washington State, two separate but equally important legal processes begin.
- The Criminal Case
The first is the criminal process. This takes place in court and involves formal DUI charges. Your first court appearance, called an arraignment, will usually occur within a few days of your arrest. During this hearing, you’ll be informed of the charges against you and asked to enter a plea. - The Department of Licensing (DOL) Hearing
The second process is administrative and handled by the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). After a DUI arrest, your driver’s license is automatically at risk, even before your case goes to court. You have just seven days to request a hearing to contest the suspension of your license. If you don’t request the hearing within that time frame, your license could be suspended regardless of the outcome of your criminal case.
Both processes require immediate action and careful strategy. That’s why it’s so important to work with an experienced Silverdale DUI defense attorney who can guide you through every step and protect your rights from the start.
Immediate Steps to Take After a DUI Arrest
What you do in the days following a DUI arrest can have a lasting impact on your case. Here’s what you should do as soon as possible:
- Request a DOL Hearing Immediately
You only have seven days to request this hearing. Missing the deadline could mean automatic license suspension.
- Hire a Local DUI Attorney
Choose a lawyer with experience in Kitsap County courts. Local knowledge can make a significant difference in how your case is handled.
- Attend Your Arraignment with Legal Counsel
Never go to court alone. A lawyer will help you understand your options, enter a plea, and begin forming a defense strategy.
- Do Not Drive with a Suspended License
If your license has been suspended, continuing to drive can lead to additional charges and harsher penalties.
- Document the Details of Your Arrest
Write down everything you remember, what the officer said, the types of tests you took, and how you were treated. These details can be crucial to your defense.
What Penalties Could You Face?
Washington takes DUI charges seriously.
Even a first-time offender can face substantial penalties.
For a first offense with a BAC under 0.15%:
- Minimum one day in jail
- Fines between approximately $990.50 and $5,000
- 90-day license suspension
- Mandatory alcohol assessment or treatment
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
If your BAC was 0.15% or higher, or you refused the breath test, you could be subject to:
- Harsher minimum jail time
- Longer license suspension (at least one year)
- Higher fines
- Longer requirement for ignition interlock
If this is not your first DUI offense, the stakes increase dramatically. Penalties for repeat DUI offenses in Washington may include:
- Mandatory jail time of 30 days or more
- License suspension for two years or longer
- Thousands in fines
- Mandatory participation in alcohol dependency programs
- Potential felony charges depending on prior offenses
How Will a DUI Affect My Life Outside the Courtroom?
Unfortunately, the consequences of a DUI conviction don’t end with court penalties. A conviction can have far-reaching effects on your personal and professional life.
- Employment Risks. If your job involves driving or you hold a professional license, a DUI could jeopardize your employment or certification.
- Auto Insurance Increases. Most people experience a sharp rise in their insurance premiums, or even have their policy canceled altogether.
- Background Checks. A DUI can appear in background checks used by employers, landlords, or licensing boards, potentially limiting your opportunities.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Defending a DUI charge is not something you should try to handle on your own. Washington’s DUI laws are complex, and prosecutors are aggressive in pursuing convictions. An experienced defense attorney can:
- Challenge the validity of the traffic stop or arrest
- Question the accuracy of field sobriety and breathalyzer tests
- Identify legal or procedural errors that may benefit your case
- Help you apply for an occupational/restricted license if your driving privileges are suspended
- Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced penalties or alternative sentencing options
At LaCross Law, we offer a hands-on approach and personalized legal strategies tailored to your situation. We don’t just know DUI law; we know Silverdale. We’ve built relationships with local prosecutors, judges, and court personnel, and we use that insight to pursue the best outcomes for our clients.
Contact the Kitsap County DUI Defense Lawyers at LaCross Law today
A DUI arrest is not the end of the road. With timely action and the right legal guidance, you may be able to avoid the most serious penalties, keep your license, and move forward with your life.
Don’t wait to get help. Contact LaCross Law for a confidential consultation. Call (360) 479-6644 or reach out online to speak with an experienced Silverdale DUI defense lawyer who will advocate for you from day one.
