DUI convictions have a wide range of penalties. Everyone accused of a DUI in Washington State is at risk of:
- Jail time,
- Fines, fees and court costs,
- Loss of driver license,
- Installing the ignition interlock device,
- Paying high automobile insurance rates,
- Attendance at a DUI Victim’s Panel,
- Alcohol/drug testing and treatment, and
- Up to five years probation.
After a conviction, whether by trial or plea agreement, Washington law allows a judge to impose penalties up to the statutory maximum. For a misdemeanor DUI in Washington State the maximum penalty is 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. However, being ordered to serve the maximum sentence is rare, but DUI’s do have mandatory minimum penalties for the different offense levels.
A first offense DUI conviction requires a mandatory minimum sentence of one day in jail and a fine of just under $1,000.00. This jail sentence on a first offense DUI can be converted to electronic home monitoring. Second and third offense DUI’s do not have that option. At sentencing there are other fees and other court costs in addition to the mandatory fine so the total court bill is usually closer to $2,500.00.
After a first offense DUI conviction the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) is required to suspend your driver’s license for at least 90 days. Plus, when you’re ready to drive again, you’ll have to install the ignition interlock device for at least 12 months and purchase SR-22 insurance for three years. These are all mandatory penalties that are required by law after a DUI conviction.
Lastly, judges must order you to complete an alcohol/drug evaluation, complete the treatment recommended in the evaluation and attend the DUI Victim’s Impact Panel (VIP). These classes can range from a one day educational seminar to a two year outpatient treatment program or even an inpatient residential treatment program.
Remember these are mandatory minimum penalties for an actual DUI conviction. If your attorney can avoid a conviction for a DUI, then you might be able to avoid some of these mandatory penalties. Regardless of your DUI offense level you should consult with an experienced DUI attorney who can guide you through the specifics of your case. Contact Cooney Law Offices today. We can help!