Being arrested for DUI is frightening, especially the first time. Understanding what happens next — and acting quickly — can make a real difference in the outcome.
Two cases, not one
A DUI arrest in Washington sets two separate processes in motion:
- The criminal case in court, where you face the DUI charge itself
- An administrative case with the Department of Licensing (DOL), which can suspend your driver’s license
This surprises many people: the license suspension is handled separately from the criminal charge and runs on its own clock. The deadline to request a DOL hearing is short, and it can pass before your first court appearance. Missing it can cost you your license regardless of what happens in the criminal case — which is exactly why getting advice quickly matters.
Potential penalties for a first DUI
Even a first conviction carries mandatory minimums under Washington law, which commonly include jail time (or an electronic home monitoring alternative), a license suspension, fines and fees, probation, and frequently an ignition interlock device requirement. The breath-test result can raise those mandatory minimums.
A DUI can often be challenged
A charge is not a conviction. DUI cases frequently turn on details that can be challenged, including:
- Whether the traffic stop was lawful
- How field sobriety tests were administered
- Whether breath-testing equipment was used and maintained properly
- Whether your constitutional rights were respected
Depending on the evidence, a first DUI can sometimes be dismissed or reduced to a lesser charge such as reckless or negligent driving.
What to do now
Avoid discussing the details of your arrest with anyone but your attorney, note any deadlines you’ve been given, and get experienced help promptly. Our Spokane first-offense DUI attorneys focus first on getting cases dismissed. Contact Schwab Law or call (509) 795-1894 as soon as possible after an arrest.