DUI

Bellevue, Washington, DUI Attorney

General Form

At our northwestern Washington law firm, we help clients facing drunk driving charges. Many people stopped for a DUI have never encountered the criminal justice system before, and don't know how to respond to police questions. Law enforcement procedures can be confusing. The consequences of conviction are significant. Our Bellevue law office is prepared to assist you with any issue related to a drunk driving charge. We work hard to get you the best possible outcome. If you've been charged with a DUI, contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately. Call Amini Law Firm, P.S.

Don't risk your future

Being convicted of a DUI charge can create serious problems for your family, your job, and your driving privileges. It may limit your ability to maintain a professional license, apply for certain types of loans, or obtain admission to education programs. If you are a foreign national, a DUI conviction can put you on the path to removal, depending on the level of the charge. Your auto insurance rates may increase. In some cases, you may even face jail time. If you have been charged with a DUI, don't risk your future. Call our Bellevue attorney, Susan H. Amini. She has handled hundreds of drunk driving cases and has the experience to help you.

Field sobriety tests and portable breath tests

When you are stopped by the police on suspicion of a DUI, you will be asked to take a field sobriety test. This test, administered at the site of the stop by the officer, evaluates your ability to drive. Such tests include the classic walking a straight line, picking up coins, answering questions, moving your hands at the direction of the officer, and other exercises that could be difficult for anyone who has never done them before. You may also be asked to take a portable breath test (PBT) at the scene; this is also voluntary. You are not legally required to take either of the tests, although refusal increases the chances that you will be arrested.

Required station-administered breath test

You are legally required to take the DataMaster breath test administered at the police station. Refusing to take this test will cause your license to be suspended because, by obtaining a license, you have already given your consent to this test. Flunking the test will also result in suspension, although often for less time than if you refuse the test. It is usually to your advantage to take the test, even if you flunk it, because your refusal to take it will be used against you. It is important to have the advice of an attorney before you decide what to do.

How the Amini Law Firm can help

• We advise clients to respond politely to an officer who makes a stop without telling them anything except the information printed on the driver's license. You can ask the law enforcement official if you are free to leave. If you are told you cannot leave, you can ask to speak with a lawyer before answering any other questions.
• We help people restore their driver's license at an administrative hearing with the Department of Licensing (DOL). It is important to request the hearing quickly, as there is a 30 day limit.
• We defend you against the DUI charge in court — a separate proceeding from the administrative hearing to reactivate your license. We make sure that the arresting officers followed all required procedures when conducting the traffic stop, the field sobriety tests, and the official breath test, giving you the required warnings and information. Depending on the level of the charge and your previous record, we can negotiate lower charges and treatment for alcohol abuse as an alternative to jail time if you are convicted.

We understand that facing a DUI charge is terrifying for many people, especially for those who have not been involved with the legal system before. We explain your options and your rights, outlining your choices. We stand by you, developing creative approaches that provide you with the best possible outcome under the circumstances. If you have been charged with driving under the influence, contact a King County lawyer at Amini Law Firm, P.S.

Experienced, Aggressive, and On Your Side