DUI Trial

Vancouver WA DUI Attorney

dui trial


If you are charged with DUI, you have the right to require the State to prove the charge at trial.

In Washington, you also have a speedy trial right. In most cases, the deadline is 90 days from your first court appearance if you are out of custody, and 60 days if you are in custody. The State cannot simply take its time with a DUI case.

You also have the right to a jury trial. In District Court, a DUI jury is made up of six members of the community who listen to the evidence and decide whether the State proved the charge. Jury verdicts must be unanimous in Washington, meaning all jurors must agree. The State must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

What a DUI Trial Looks Like

At trial, the State usually calls witnesses such as the arresting officer, and may also call a State toxicologist or other witnesses to introduce breath test or blood test evidence.

After the State rests, the defense has the opportunity to call witnesses and present evidence, including expert testimony when appropriate. You are presumed innocent for the entire trial. If the State has not met its burden beyond a reasonable doubt, the defense may choose not to present any witnesses at all.

Trial Experience Matters

Going to trial is a core part of the justice system. Kris has tried 50+ jury trials, and that experience matters when you are deciding whether to go to trial, negotiating with prosecutors, or preparing a case for court.

Talk to a DUI lawyer

Call the office or submit the contact form to set up a consultation and talk to Kris about your DUI or other criminal charge.