Medina, WA DUI & Criminal Defense Lawyers
Your DUI Case in Medina, WA: Two Separate Battles for One Arrest
When facing a DUI charge in Medina, WA, it’s important to understand that a single DUI arrest triggers not one, but two separate legal battles. Hiring a Medina, WA DUI Attorney such as Rob Ault can help you understand this process.
In addition to facing criminal prosecution in court, you will also have to contend with the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL), which independently handles your driving privileges.
At Veitch Ault Defense, our seasoned Medina, WA DUI attorney, Robert J. Ault, is well-versed in the intricacies of Washington State DUI law. We are committed to defending your rights and interests, ensuring all legal documents are processed correctly and on time. With a track record of helping thousands of clients successfully navigate their cases, our team is ready to provide the defense you need.
What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Medina, WA?
Following a DUI arrest in Medina, immediate action against your driving privileges begins, which is entirely separate from the criminal case in court.
At the time of your arrest and release, the arresting officer should provide you with a DOL Hearing Request Form. You must submit this request within seven days of your arrest (including weekends and holidays). If the seventh day falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline extends to the next weekday.
Failing to request a hearing within this timeframe will result in an automatic suspension or revocation of your license. Even if your criminal case is still pending, losing at the DOL hearing will lead to the automatic suspension or revocation of your driving privileges. If your license was valid at the time of your arrest, you may continue driving until the outcomes of both your DOL hearing and court case are determined.
The DOL hearing, typically conducted over the phone, involves you, your Medina, WA DUI attorney, and a Department of Licensing hearing examiner. In some instances, you may request an in-person hearing. Generally, this hearing takes place within 60 days of your arrest.
DUI Cases in Medina, WA: What You Need to Know
Medina, Washington, is a quaint residential city in the Eastside region of King County. It is known for its prime location along Lake Washington and proximity to Seattle and Bellevue. Despite its picturesque setting, DUI charges in Medina are taken very seriously, and the consequences can be severe.
If you are arrested for DUI by a Medina Police Department officer, your case will be filed in Kirkland Municipal Court. This court, located at 11740 NE 118th St in Kirkland, handles all DUI cases from Medina. If there is no prior DUI offense or blood draw at the time of arrest, your first court appearance will occur four to eight weeks after the incident. Judge John Olson presides over these cases, with the firm Moberly Roberts prosecuting for the City of Medina.
What Are the Penalties for DUI in Medina, WA?
First DUI Offense (No Prior Offense in the Last 7 Years)
- BAC of .15% or Less:
- Minimum of one day in jail OR 15 days of Electronic Home Detention
- Fines starting at $990.50
- 90-day license suspension
- SR-22 insurance for three years
- Probationary driver’s license for five years after reinstatement
- Ignition interlock device for at least one year (6-month compliance required for removal)
- Court-ordered alcohol evaluation and treatment
- BAC Over .15% or Refusal to Take Breath Test:
- Minimum of two days in jail OR 30 days of Electronic Home Detention
- Fines starting at $1,245.50
- One-year license revocation for BAC over .15%; two-year revocation for refusal
- Ignition interlock device for at least one year
- SR-22 insurance for three years
Second DUI Offense (One Prior Offense in the Last 7 Years)
Penalties escalate significantly, including:
- 30-45 days in jail and 60-90 days of Electronic Home Detention
- Fines ranging from $1,245.50 to $1,670.50
- Two-year license revocation for BAC over .15%; three years for refusal
- Probationary license and SR-22 insurance requirements remain
Third DUI Offense (Two Prior Offenses in the Last 7 Years)
- 90-120 days in jail AND 120-150 days of Electronic Home Detention
- Fines ranging from $2,095.50 to $2,778
- Three-to-four-year driver’s license revocation
- Probationary license and SR-22 insurance for three years
One arrested for DUI in the City of Medina is wise to contact Veitch Ault Defense immediately to ensure they provide themselves the best opportunity to fight the charge.
Seek Expert Legal Help from a Medina, WA DUI Attorney
Taking action is crucial if you’re facing DUI charges in Medina, WA. Contact Veitch Ault Defense to ensure you have the best chance to defend yourself against these serious charges. Our experienced Medina, WA DUI attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.
Contact Us