Getting arrested for a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) can be a frightening and overwhelming experience, especially if it’s your first encounter with the criminal justice system. At Eloquence Law, we understand the stress, confusion, and fear that come with a DUI charge. We’ve helped countless individuals navigate the legal system, protect their rights, and fight for their futures as your Tacoma criminal defense attorney since 2016.
In this post, we’ll walk you through what happens when you get a DUI in Washington. You’ll learn what to expect, what’s at stake, and how we can help from start to finish.
The DUI Arrest: What You Should Know
If you’ve already experienced a DUI arrest, you’ll know this part. But if you haven’t, knowing what to expect can help you navigate the situation calmly.
It Starts With a Traffic Stop
A DUI typically begins with a routine traffic stop. Law enforcement may pull you over for a minor infraction—swerving, speeding, or even a broken taillight. If they observe signs of impairment (such as slurred speech, the odor of alcohol, or bloodshot eyes), they’ll likely conduct field sobriety tests or a portable breath test.
You are not legally required to perform the field sobriety tests, and the results can be subjective. If you’re unsure what to do, remember you have the right to remain silent and to request an attorney. Exercising those rights early can be critical.
Arrest and Chemical Testing
If the officer believes they have probable cause, they will arrest you for DUI and transport you to the station for further testing. This is usually a breath or blood test. Washington’s Implied Consent Law means that by driving in the state, you’ve consented to chemical testing if arrested for DUI. Refusing this test can lead to an automatic license suspension, regardless of the outcome of your criminal case.
Depending on the circumstances, after you’re booked, you may be released on bail, on your own recognizance, or held until your arraignment.
Your License Is Immediately at Risk
One of the most urgent and often overlooked consequences of a DUI arrest in Washington is the immediate threat to your driver’s license. This happens even before you step foot in a courtroom.
Administrative License Suspension
From the moment of your arrest, you have just seven days to request a hearing with the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) to challenge the suspension of your license. If you miss this window, your license will be automatically suspended. Even if you are later found not guilty in court.
This is why contacting our team right away is essential. At Eloquence Law, we handle DOL hearings regularly and can build a strong argument on your behalf to help you retain your driving privileges.
The Criminal DUI Process in Washington
The DUI process in Tacoma (and throughout Washington State) involves multiple court appearances, legal filings, and negotiations. Without a skilled DUI defense attorney, you risk facing the full weight of the system alone.
Arraignment
This is your first court appearance, where you’ll be formally charged and asked to enter a plea. In many cases, the judge may impose conditions of release. These might include mandatory alcohol monitoring, no driving without a license, or even home detention.
Having us by your side from the start ensures that your rights are protected and your case starts off on solid footing.
Pretrial Conferences and Motions
This stage includes negotiations with the prosecutor, discovery (the exchange of evidence), and the filing of legal motions. Our team carefully examines every detail—challenging the legality of the stop, questioning the reliability of breath test machines, and scrutinizing officer conduct. A strong pretrial strategy can lead to reduced charges, favorable plea deals, or even case dismissal.
Trial
While most DUI cases are resolved before trial, we prepare every case as if we’re going to court. If trial is the best option for your case, we’ll be ready. Our attorneys are seasoned litigators who fight fiercely to protect your rights and reputation.
DUI Penalties in Washington
Even for first-time offenders, the penalties for DUI in Washington are serious—and they get more severe with each subsequent offense. Potential penalties include:
- Jail time: One day to 364 days (depending on BAC level and prior offenses)
Fines: Up to $5,000 - License suspension: From 90 days up to four years
Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Installation is required for most convictions - Alcohol or Drug Education Programs: Mandatory evaluations and treatment may be ordered
- Probation and monitoring: You may be required to check in regularly with a probation officer or comply with sobriety monitoring.
These penalties aren’t just legal—they’re personal. A DUI conviction can impact your employment, housing, insurance rates, and even custody matters. That’s why our team fights so hard to minimize or avoid these consequences whenever possible.
What Sets Eloquence Law Apart
We don’t just defend cases—we advocate for people. At Eloquence Law, we bring a strategic, compassionate approach to DUI defense that’s grounded in deep legal knowledge and unwavering commitment to our clients.
What We Bring to Your Defense:
- Comprehensive case review: We analyze police reports, breathalyzer maintenance logs, video footage, and more.
- Experienced negotiation: We know how to work with prosecutors to explore all options, including deferred prosecution, reduced charges, and alternatives to jail.
- Trial-tested defense: If a trial is necessary, we bring the skill, preparation, and tenacity to fight for the best possible outcome.
Our firm is proud to serve Tacoma and the surrounding areas with thoughtful, assertive DUI defense. We treat every case with the respect and diligence it deserves—because we know what’s at stake.
Don’t Wait—Call Our DUI Defense Team Today
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Tacoma or the surrounding counties, time is not on your side. Between the 7-day deadline for a DOL hearing and the complexity of the criminal process, the sooner you speak with a skilled attorney, the better.
At Eloquence Law, we offer free, confidential consultations to help you understand your options and take control of your defense. You are not just a case number to us—you’re a person, and you deserve a team that will fight for your future.
Call or email us today to schedule your consultation. We’re ready to stand by your side from day one.