DUI Attorney in Kent, WA
Over 25 Years of DUI Defense Experience in King County
DUI charges are some of the most frequent defense cases we handle at The Law Office of Erik P. Kaeding. While common, you can trust that our Kent attorneys take DUI cases seriously. A DUI offense carries severe punishments such as hefty fines and jail time as well as a permanent DUI record that can result in the increase of your insurance or even unemployment.
Whether this is your first or third DUI offense, make sure that you are represented by a skilled Kent DUI defense attorney. At our criminal defense firm, we strive to help clients get their DUI cases dismissed or at least have their punishments reduced.
Understanding DUI Charges in Washington
In Kent, you can be arrested for DUI if any of the following is true:
- Your blood alcohol level or BAC is .08 or higher
- The amount of marijuana in your system or blood THC is 5.0 ng/millimeter or higher
- You are clearly under the influence or affected by an intoxicating substance
- You are clearly under the influence or affected by a combination of drugs and alcohol
It is important to know that being intoxicated by drugs is not just limited
to illegal drugs such as cocaine or heroin. As long as the medication,
whether a prescription or over-the-counter drug, affects your physical
and mental control, you could still be arrested for DUI.
For more information on how our Kent DUI attorney can help with your DUI case, contact us at (253) 444-4432!
What are the Penalties for DUI in Kent, Washington?
Although DUI penalties may vary per charge, if convicted, you could face the following penalties:
First Offense:
- Up to one year in jail (minimum 24 hours)
- Fines between $350-$5,000
- License suspension for 90 days
- Ignition Interlock Device
Second Offense:
- Up to one year in jail (minimum 30 days)
- Fines between $500-$5,000
- License suspension for 2 years
- Ignition Interlock Device
Third Offense:
- Up to one year in jail (minimum 90 days)
- Fines between $1,000-$5,000
- License suspension for 3 years
- Ignition Interlock Device
Is a DUI a Felony in Washington?
There are a few circumstances under which a felony can be charged as a felony in WA:
- If you have four or more previous DUI charges (or charges related to DUI) in the past ten years.
- If you have already had a felony DUI conviction.
- If you have a previous charge that involved vehicular assault or homicide while under the influence.
Essentially, this has to be recurring behavior for a new DUI to get charged as a felony. In most circumstances, a DUI in WA is considered a gross misdemeanor.
Let our King County Defense Attorney Fight Your DUI
In his more than 25 years of dealing with DUI cases, Attorney Erik P. Kaeding has gotten to know the officers, prosecutors, and judges that usually handle DUIs. As a result, he has become skilled in anticipating the direction of the prosecutor’s case and providing a counter-strategy geared toward the end-result that you need.
Speak with a Skilled DUI Lawyer in Kent
Increase your chances of avoiding the harsh punishments of a DUI charge by seeking the representation of The Law Office of Erik P. Kaeding. Our DUI attorneys have successfully represented countless clients with cases similar to yours. Let us help you understand your rights and advocate for your best interests. We are committed to working hard for you to obtain the best outcome possible.
Call (253) 444-4432 to schedule a free initial consultation with our Kent DUI defense attorney today!