Washington DUI Defense Guide — Charges & Options
DUI basics, court steps, and what happens next
A DUI arrest triggers two separate proceedings that run at the same time. The criminal case decides guilt, penalties, and your record. The administrative case decides whether your license is suspended — often on a much shorter deadline. Missing a step in one track can limit your options in the other, which is why understanding both paths from the start matters.
The two tracks: criminal and administrative
Track 1: Criminal prosecution
The criminal case is a court proceeding where the state must prove DUI beyond a reasonable doubt. Washington's per se BAC limit is 0.08 §46.61.502, but you can also be charged based on impairment regardless of BAC. A first offense is classified as a gross misdemeanor.
Track 2: Administrative license action
The administrative action is handled separately from the criminal case §46.20.308. It can result in license suspension even if the criminal case is eventually dismissed. You have 20 days after notice of suspension to request DOL hearing to request a hearing to contest the suspension.
What triggers enhanced penalties
- BAC ≥ 0.15 (mandatory additional jail and longer IID)
- Refusal of test
- Prior DUI within 7 years
- Child under 16 in vehicle
- Driving without valid license
Implied consent and chemical testing §46.20.308
Washington has an Implied consent law: by driving on Washington roads, you have implicitly consented to chemical testing when lawfully arrested for DUI. Refusing the test carries its own consequences: 1-year license revocation. In Washington, refusal to submit to chemical testing is admissible as evidence at trial §46.20.308.
BAC thresholds that matter
| Category | BAC Limit | Consequence | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard per se | 0.08 §46.61.502 | DUI charge without other evidence of impairment | |
| Enhanced penalty | 0.15 §46.61.5055 | Higher minimum penalties and longer license suspension | |
| Under 21 | 0.02 | Zero tolerance violation | |
| Commercial (CDL) | 0.04 §49 C.F.R. § 383.51 | CDL disqualification |
Why timing matters most
DUI cases are unusually time-sensitive. The administrative hearing deadline begins running from the date of arrest or notice — not from the first court date. Evidence (dashcam footage, witness recollections, calibration records) can deteriorate. Early attorney involvement can preserve options that disappear with delay.
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Frequently Asked Questions
General answers to common questions. Specific outcomes depend on your facts and timing.
If you have a deadline, court notice, or upcoming hearing, mention it when requesting assistance so timing can be evaluated promptly.
- Per se limit: BAC of 0.08 or higher
- Commercial vehicle limit: 0.04 (set by separate statute in some states)
- Under 21: 0.02 (zero tolerance; set by separate statute in some states)
- Refusal consequence: 1-year license revocation
- Refusal admissible at trial: yes
- Hearing deadline: 20 days after notice of suspension to request DOL hearing
- First offense suspension: 90 days (failed test); 1 year (refusal)