YOUR COMMUNITY RESOURCE: WASHINGTON STATE DUI AND CRIMINAL TRAFFIC BLOG - BY SEATTLE DUI LAWYER W. JAMES KOTLOWSKI

Does Negligent Driving 1st Degree have a license suspension?

No. If you are able to obtain a reduction from DUI to Negligent Driving 1st Degree you will not have a driver's license suspension in the State of Washington. However, you can still have a suspension on the civil administrative side. If your breath test readings are .08 or higher  you will also have to be successful at the DOL Hearing to avoid a license suspension. 

What are the DUI penalties in Washington State?

See link for DUI penalties in Washington State. Washington DUI Penalties. 

Are there "sliding scale" alcohol/drug treatment providers?

Yes. There are several agencies that provide alcohol/drug treatment services on a sliding scale basis. (some as little as a few dollars per session) I recommend you call around to find one suitable for your specific needs.

See links below to a few agencies that offer sliding scale. Alcohol/Drug Treatment Agency Alcohol/Drug Treatment Agency

What bail bondsmen do you use or recomend for my DUI case?

I have had good success with Lacy OMalley Bail Bonds. They have been very attentive to my clients needs and seem to get everything processed fairly quickly.

See link: Lacey O'Malley

What's the typical fee for bail bondsmen in Washington State for a DUI?

If you are on your second or subsequent DUI arrest, it is very likely a Washington Court will set bail. Seattle Municipal Court almost always sets bail on a second or subsequent DUI arrest. Therefore, finding a bail bondsmen is going to be necessary. Most Washington bail bondsmen charge 10% of the bail amount. For example, if your DUI bail is $5000.00 your fee will be $500.00. This fee is non-refundable and all agencies accept credit cards.

I usually try to arrange everything beforehand so that my clients do not have to be booked or see the inside of a jail cell.  A bail bondsman is essentially acting as a surety pledging moneys and/or property as bail to guarantee your appearance in court.

What's my BAC level?

See link: BAC level.

Remember, this is just an estimate only and your actual breath test reading could vary substantially. Other factors may also affect the actual breath test reading.