Tacoma Drunk Driving Defense Lawyer

What To Do If You Are Stopped for Drunk Driving in Pierce County

The Law Offices of Harry S. Steinmetz, headed by Tacoma drunk driving defense lawyer Harry Steinmetz, offers the following advice on what to do if you are stopped or arrested for driving while intoxicated.

Upon the report of law enforcement that you were driving with a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher or refused a breath or blood test, Washington State Department of Licensing begins a separate action to suspend or revoke your driving privileges. This action is completely unrelated to any criminal action. You have only 20 days from the date of the offense to request a hearing to fight your suspension. It is vital that you hire an experienced Tacoma DUI lawyer to fight for your driver's license as soon as possible.

In Washington, the first drinking and driving offense leads to a driver license revocation for 90 days. For your second and subsequent DUI charges, you lose your license for two years.  An ignition interlock device may be added to your vehicle, meaning that you have to pass a mandatory test before you can start your car.

If you are stopped for a DUI in Tacoma:

• Provide the officer with your driver's license, registration and proof of insurance.
• Tell the officer you will not be answering any questions or making any statements.
• Tell the officer
  • You will not volunteer to perform any field sobriety tests
  • You will not voluntarily blow into a PBT (Portable Breath Test)
  • You will blow into a BAC machine at the station if the officer has probable cause to arrest you.
• Tell the officer
  • If you are not under arrest, you wish to leave immediately
  • If you are under arrest, you wish to talk to Mr. Steinmetz immediately.

Contact us

At The Law Office of Harry S. Steinmetz, we offer cost-effective legal counsel to those charged with DUI/DWI. Tacoma drunk driving lawyer Harry S. Steinmetz will work diligently on your case and keep you informed of all options and developments. Contact our Tacoma law firm today for a free initial consultation.