SPOKANE, WA · DUI DEFENSE
TWO CASES START AT ONCE
A DUI arrest in Washington starts two separate cases: a criminal case in court, and an administrative action by the Department of Licensing (DOL) against your driver’s license. Each has its own deadlines, and the decisions you make in the first few days affect both.
With more than 30 years of criminal law experience, including serving as a Spokane County prosecutor and handling nearly 200 jury cases, Chris Bugbee brings extensive courtroom knowledge to every DUI case he defends. His experience on both sides of the courtroom provides valuable insight into how prosecutors build their cases and how to identify weaknesses in the evidence, including breath and blood tests, field sobriety tests, and police reports. Recognized with a 10.0 Superb Avvo rating and an AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, Chris personally handles each client’s case, from the initial consultation through DOL hearings, negotiations, and trial when necessary.
DUI PROCESS & FAQ
As soon as possible. You generally have only 7 days from your arrest (or from receiving notice of suspension, if later) to request a DOL hearing, and acting early protects your options in the criminal case too.
Washington is an “implied consent” state, so a first qualifying breath-test refusal generally results in a one-year license revocation, and later refusals can mean a longer revocation. Ask to speak with an attorney before you decide.
No. Neither test is foolproof, and the evidence can often be challenged by an experienced DUI lawyer.
Some jail time is mandatory on conviction. For a first DUI in Washington it ranges from 24 hours to one year, and a felony DUI can mean up to five years in prison.
Yes, if the evidence is insufficient or was obtained illegally. Even when a charge is not dismissed, it may be reduced to a lesser offense depending on your history.
DUI DEFENSE SERVICES
WHAT TO KNOW
Every DUI case is different. A careful defense reviews the reason for the stop, how field sobriety tests were given, whether breath or blood testing followed the rules, and whether your rights were respected.
Problems in any one of these areas can lead to reduced charges, suppressed evidence or a dismissal.
Request your DOL hearing within 7 days of your arrest (or of receiving the DOL’s notice of suspension, if later), or your license suspension can begin automatically.
PENALTIES & SENTENCING
DUI DEFENSES
SPECIAL SITUATIONS
Every DUI case is different. Call Bugbee Law Office, P.S. today for a free, confidential case evaluation.
FREE CASE EVALUATION
Arrested for DUI in Spokane? Speak directly with an experienced former prosecutor about your options, your license and your next steps.
The information on this website is general information, not legal advice. Every case is different, and past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Read the full disclaimer.
