As Washington State prepares for significant changes to its DUI laws, drivers should be aware of the new regulations set to take effect in 2025. These changes aim to reduce DUI-related fatalities and introduce stricter penalties for repeat offenders while providing expanded opportunities for rehabilitation. 1. Lowering the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limit One of … Read more
Understanding Mandatory Minimums and Alternatives Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Washington State, carrying strict penalties that can significantly impact your life. One of the most pressing concerns for individuals facing a DUI charge is whether jail time is mandatory. This blog will explore the mandatory minimum jail sentences for DUI … Read more
In 2024, Washington State continues to expand its firearm regulations, focusing on enhancing public safety and imposing stricter requirements on gun dealers and owners. Governor Jay Inslee recently signed several new bills into law, which introduce significant changes to firearm possession, reporting requirements, and security measures for dealers. Here’s an overview of the key legislative … Read more
In the latest legislative session, Washington state has passed House Bill 1493, introducing significant changes to DUI laws. These amendments will affect both first-time offenders and those facing felony DUI charges. Here’s a detailed look at the key updates: 1. Expanded Lookback Period for Felony DUI Charges 2. Sentencing Alternatives for Felony DUI Convictions 3. … Read more
In 2024, Washington State will see significant changes to its gun laws, aimed at enhancing public safety and promoting responsible gun ownership. Here is a detailed overview of the new laws and their specific effective dates. Assault Weapons Ban: House Bill 1240 This bill introduces a major change in gun control by prohibiting the manufacture, … Read more
It’s Now More Difficult to Restore Gun Rights The Washington legislature passed a whole new law regarding firearm rights and possession, including a new standard for restoring gun rights in Washington State. The new restoration law still allows firearm restoration for those convicted of felonies and domestic violence misdemeanors, but the law makes it more … Read more
District Court judges in Kitsap County recently ruled that all Washington breath tests are unreliable and excludes them from DUI cases. The breath test machine does not comply with Washington law and all test results are invalid. This ruling applied to Kitsap District Court cases currently, but it’s only the beginning for the rest of … Read more
Oregon’s new expungement law went into effect today. It was a much needed change to the previous law that was overly complicated and limited who could erase their record. Under the new law, a person with a criminal record has can ask the court to expunge their criminal history if they have completed the conditions … Read more
On January 1, 2022, the State of Washington will enact new laws related to DUI sentencing. These laws give the judge more flexibility when sentencing on DUIs with the mandatory minimum laws in Washington. First Offense – House Arrest Option The court will now be able to order house arrest or the 24/7 sobriety program … Read more
Drug Possession Convictions are Invalid In a landmark opinion, the Washington Supreme Court in State v. Blake ruled that the law prohibiting possession of controlled substances in unconstitutional and those convicted may be eligible to have their conviction invalidated. The reasoning behind the opinion is that the law did not require the state to prove … Read more