Your Community Resource for DUI Defense in Washington State. Writings of Seattle DUI Lawyer and Seattle Criminal Lawyer W. James Kotlowski. A Discussion of Washington State DUI, Department of Licensing and Criminal Traffic Law Issues. 20 years of experience. Call or Text - 206.335.2422 for a Free Consultation.
Contact Information Law Office of W. James Kotlowski PLLC
520 East Denny Way Seattle, WA 98122
Tel: (206) 325-2801
james@duiseattle.com
Located in the Historic Ward House: Seattle's Oldest Residence (Restored and converted into office space by attorney David Leen in 1986)
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This blog is made available by the lawyer publisher for educational purposes only as well as to give information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide specific legal advice. By using this blog site you understand that there is no attorney client relationship between you and the Blog publisher. The linked sites are not under the control of the Law Office of W. James Kotlowski PLLC and the Office is not responsible for the contents of any linked site. The Blog should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state. W. James Kotlowski is licensed to practice law in the State of Washington only.
The Washington State Patrol (WSP) Website allows you to look up your criminal history/records. See Look-up my Washington Criminal Records. The cost is $10.00 and you will need a credit card.
You were arrested for DUI or Physical Control - months ago - but no charges were filed. What's happening??
This is a very common occurrence for State cases (State Patrol, Sheriff), especially in King County where charges are typically filed 2-4 months after your DUI arrest.
Regardless, the State of Washington has 2 years to file charges from the date of the incident or arrest on a DUI or Physical Control.
You only have 20 days from the date of your arrest for DUI or Physical Control in Washington State to request a Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) hearing. If you do nothing your license will be suspended 60 days from the date of your arrest. I favor mailing the hearing request to the DOL with the $200 fee and getting "proof of mailing" from the post office. This gives the DOL the opportunity to make a mistake in it's handling of the hearing request. (slim odds but you never know)
See following links for requesting a hearing and follow instructions: