DUI Archives - Vancouver WA Criminal Defense Attorney | DUI Lawyer

Major 2026 Changes to Washington DUI Laws: Felony Penalties, Sentencing Options, and Lookback Period

December 15, 2025December 10, 2025 by kriscarrasco

Washington’s DUI laws are changing significantly on January 1, 2026. These updates primarily affect how severe offenses, such as Felony DUI, are charged and sentenced. As a Washington DUI defense attorney, I’ve broken down the biggest 2026 changes in clear, practical language so drivers know exactly what to expect. 1. Washington Extends the Felony DUI Lookback … Read more

Washington’s New DUI Law in 2026: Second Deferred Prosecution and What It Means for You

December 10, 2025December 9, 2025 by kriscarrasco

Starting January 1, 2026, Washington’s DUI laws change in several important ways under Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1493 (ESHB 1493). One of the biggest shifts is that some drivers will now be eligible for a second deferred prosecution in DUI and physical control cases, something that was not allowed under prior law. What Is Deferred Prosecution? Deferred … Read more

Can You Vacate a Reckless or Negligent Driving Conviction Reduced from DUI in Washington?

June 3, 2025 by kriscarrasco

Driving abstract document stamped ‘VACATED’ next to car keys and a stamp on a wooden desk

If your Reckless or Negligent Driving conviction in Washington came from a reduced DUI, you may be eligible to vacate it after 10 years. Learn the legal requirements and how to clear your record.

How Washington’s Lower BAC Limit Could Affect DUI Defenses and Driver Rights

June 3, 2025 by kriscarrasco

As Washington State considers a dramatic shift in its DUI laws by lowering the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit from 0.08% to 0.05%, many drivers are left wondering: what does this mean for me? Senate Bill 5067 (SB 5067), if passed, could alter not only how DUI cases are prosecuted but also how they … Read more

Senate Bill 5067: Washington State’s New DUI Law Lowers BAC Limit to 0.05%

March 20, 2025 by kriscarrasco

A new DUI Law proposal currently working its way through the Washington State Legislature is Senate Bill 5067 (SB 5067), which aims to lower the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for driving from 0.08% to 0.05%. If passed, this would mark a dramatic shift in Washington’s DUI laws, potentially affecting thousands of drivers—and raising … Read more

Proposed DUI Law Changes in Washington State for 2025: What You Need to Know

October 17, 2024 by kriscarrasco

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

Is Jail Mandatory for DUI Offenses in Washington State?

October 14, 2024 by kriscarrasco

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

Upcoming Changes to DUI Laws in Washington State for 2024

June 11, 2024 by kriscarrasco

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

New DUI Laws in 2022

January 11, 2022January 10, 2022 by kriscarrasco

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

CDL Driver Charged with DUI Keeps License

January 30, 2020 by kriscarrasco

Client is a commercial truck driver with a CDL license and was charged with DUI in Clark County WA. Client was pulled over on I-5 freeway and arrested for DUI after a night out drinking. He requested a DOL license hearing and we won the hearing based on a officer error in the investigation. We … Read more

Feb 29, 2024

by GC on Kris Carrasco Attorney at Law

Out of State Restraining Order

I was in a horrible situation where the mother of my son had me arrested on false claims so she could kidnap our son and move to Washington from California. She filed a restraining order when she got to Washington, listing our son as a protected party and claimed I had been abusive to her and him, writing a statement filled with lies and stories going back many years. She went so far as to have her family members, whom had never left Washington submit statements as well. The whole thing was disturbing and as a result I wasn't able to see my son for months. Kris didn't get dragged into arguing the meritless claims she made but instead focused on the actual law. Washington did not have jurisdiction over me and as a result a restraining order was not legal. A temp judge granted the restraining order and Kris made the judge explain on the stand multiple times how Washington had jurisdiction. She could not. He filed a motion for reconsideration shortly after outlining case law and making it clear that the temp judge had made a mistake. A commissioner reviewed and granted the motion for reconsideration. As a result, I was able to be reunited with my son, 102 days later. Kris is an amazing lawyer and I can't thank him enough for what he did for me and my son. Don't hesitate to hire him.