Bothell, Washington DUI Lawyer 

Determined & Personalized Legal Counsel Available 24/7 

Washington is known for having some of the toughest DUI laws in the nation. In Bothell, law enforcement and prosecutors are relentless in their efforts to secure convictions, often armed with extensive evidence and resources intended to prove their case. 

However, this does not mean a DUI conviction is unavoidable. With meticulous preparation and a thoughtful legal strategy, there are opportunities to challenge the charges against you. 

We provide steadfast legal counsel and advocacy to help you understand your options. Hale Law Enterprises has represented individuals in situations like yours for over 25 years and has handled more than 10,000 criminal defense cases. While every case is unique, our dedication to building the strongest possible defense remains the same. 

Protect your future with strong DUI defense. Call (206) 207-4776 or contact us online to arrange your free consultation with an attorney committed to your case.

What Can a Bothell DUI Attorney Do for You? 

Being accused of driving under the influence can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life. We are here to help you through every step of this difficult process. Here are some of the core ways we can assist in your defense against a DUI charge. 

Legal Counsel & Advocacy 

Facing DUI charges requires navigating a complex legal system, which can be confusing and intimidating if you’re unfamiliar with it. Our role as your legal counsel is to guide you through every stage of the process, from court appearances to administrative hearings.

Investigation & Evidence Gathering 

Building a strong defense begins with a thorough investigation. We examine the details of your case, including police reports, field sobriety tests, and any breathalyzer or blood test results. Our approach also involves questioning witnesses and determining whether law enforcement followed proper protocols during your arrest.

Case Analysis & Defense Strategy 

Each case involves unique circumstances, and we develop legal strategies focused on those specific details. This may include evaluating how evidence was obtained or reviewing the validity of police procedures to build a comprehensive defense based on the facts of your case.

Negotiation & Plea Bargains 

Sometimes, the next step forward involves negotiation rather than trial. We actively engage in discussions with prosecutors to explore potential plea agreements that may reduce charges or minimize the penalties you face. Choices will always be made with your best interests in mind. 

Courtroom Representation 

When your case proceeds to trial, our role is to advocate aggressively on your behalf. By challenging witness testimonies and exposing weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, we work relentlessly to present a compelling and effective argument in court.

Sentencing Advocacy & Appeals 

If a conviction occurs, we work to present mitigating factors about your background and circumstances, aiming to influence the sentencing decision in your favor. Additionally, if errors occurred during the trial, we can explore potential opportunities for appeals or other forms of post-conviction relief. 

Possible Defenses Against a DUI Charge 

Our firm has handled over 10,000 criminal defense cases during more than two decades of focused practice. A significant portion of those involved DUI cases. With nearly 90% of our cases resulting in reductions, dismissals, or acquittals, we’ve built a solid understanding of how to pursue favorable outcomes for our clients. Here are some of the most common defenses we use when challenging DUI charges.

• Unlawful Traffic Stop: Law enforcement officers must have reasonable suspicion or probable cause to pull you over. If the stop was conducted unlawfully, meaning there was no valid reason for the officer to initiate the traffic stop, any evidence gathered afterward, including test results or observations, may be deemed inadmissible in court.
• Improper Field Sobriety Tests: Field sobriety tests are standardized and must be conducted under specific guidelines and conditions to ensure reliability. If these tests were conducted on uneven surfaces, in poor lighting, or in unsuitable weather conditions, or if the officer failed to properly administer the tests, the validity of the results can be challenged.
• Breathalyzer or Blood Test Errors: Breathalyzers and blood tests are far from infallible. Breathalyzer devices require regular calibration and proper maintenance to provide accurate readings. Similarly, blood tests can be compromised by issues such as contamination, mishandling of samples, or procedural errors in the chain of custody.
• Medical Conditions or External Factors: Certain medical conditions can sometimes lead to false positives on breathalyzer tests. Similarly, external factors like using certain mouthwashes or being exposed to specific chemical substances can interfere with test results.

Each DUI case is unique, and our approach is always tailored to the specific circumstances of your situation. By carefully examining the details of your case, including the officer's actions, the evidence collected, and any potential errors in procedure, we strive to build a robust defense strategy to protect your rights and achieve a favorable outcome.

Get the legal support you need. Call (206) 207-4776 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with an attorney who understands DUI defense strategies.

What Happens After You’re Charged with a DUI in Bothell? 

Understanding what to expect once you’ve been charged with a DUI can help ease some of the fear and uncertainty surrounding the process. 

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what typically happens:

1. Arrest – If a police officer suspects impairment, they may perform chemical tests or field sobriety tests. An arrest follows if they decide there’s probable cause for a DUI charge. 
2. Arraignment – This is your first court appearance. The court formally reads the charges against you, and you enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. 
3. Pretrial – This stage involves motions, evidence gathering, and negotiations. Your attorney works to build your defense, assess the evidence, and explore any plea deal options. 
4. Trial (if applicable) – If negotiations don’t lead to a resolution, your case may go to trial. Your attorney will assertively argue your defense before a judge or jury. 
5. Sentencing (if convicted) – A sentencing hearing determines the penalties you’ll face. Sentences can include fines, license suspension, mandatory classes, or jail time. 

DUI Laws & Penalties in Washington State

For a first offense, if your BAC is 0.08% or higher, the penalties include a minimum of 24 hours in jail (up to one year possible), 15 days of electronic home monitoring or 90 days of 24-hour sobriety monitoring, fines ranging from $350 to $5,000, and a 90-day license suspension. If your BAC is 0.15% or higher, the penalties increase to a minimum of 48 hours in jail (up to one year possible), 30 days of electronic home monitoring or 120 days of 24-hour sobriety monitoring, fines ranging from $500 to $5,000, and a one-year license suspension.

For a second offense within seven years, the penalties include a minimum of 30 days in jail (up to one year possible), 60 days of electronic home monitoring, fines ranging from $500 to $5,000, and a license suspension for two years (or 900 days if your BAC is 0.15% or higher).

For a third or subsequent offense within seven years, the charge becomes a felony. Penalties include a minimum of 90 days in jail (up to one year possible), six months of 24-hour sobriety monitoring, 120 days of electronic home monitoring, and fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.

Additional penalties include zero tolerance for underage DUI, where minors with a BAC of 0.02% or higher face misdemeanor charges, up to 90 days in jail, two years of probation, and a $1,000 fine.

An Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is required for one year for a first offense, five years for a second offense, and ten years for a third offense.

Why Choose Hale Law Enterprises for Your DUI Defense in Bothell, WA? 

When it comes to DUI defense, navigating the legal complexities ahead requires knowledge, preparation, and commitment. At Hale Law Enterprises, we are focused on delivering legal defense that prioritizes your well-being. Here’s why you should choose us to help with your case. 

• Personal Attention to Your Case – You’ll work directly with Attorney Matthew T. Hale throughout your representation. Your case won’t be handed over to a junior associate. 
• High-Profile Cases Handled – We have successfully represented high-profile clients with discretion and effective strategies tailored to protect their careers and reputations.
• Affordable & Accessible Services – We are committed to providing cost-effective legal counsel, offering clear pricing with no surprise fees. 
• Experienced & Aggressive Attorney – Attorney Matthew T. Hale has extensive experience that spans decades and a background of fighting assertively for his clients.
• Free Initial Consultation – Take the first step without financial obligations. Your first consultation is always free of charge. 
• Virtual Consultations Available – We provide flexible options to meet with you, whether in person or remotely. 

Call (206) 207-4776 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. We are here to listen, guide, and advocate for you during this challenging time.