Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, DUI arrests spike dramatically across the country. Law enforcement agencies ramp up patrols, set up more checkpoints, and dedicate extra resources to catching impaired drivers.
Earlier this year, Washington State is updated its DUI laws in ways that could have significant consequences for drivers with prior DUI convictions. One of the most important changes involves how past offenses are counted when determining whether a DUI charge rises to a felony.
EXTENDED “LOOK-BACK” PERIOR FOR PRIOR DUI’S
Under the updated law, HB 1493 updates the “look-back” period used to determine whether an impaired driving offense becomes a felony by increasing it from 10 years to 15 years. This means that if a person has three or more prior DUI or physical control convictions within the past 15 years, a subsequent impaired driving offense can be charged as a felony rather than a gross misdemeanor. Also, older convictions that would not have counted under the previous 10-year rule may now be considered in charging and sentencing.
ADDITIONAL DUI LAW CHANGES
In addition to the extended look-back period, the new law also includes the following:
- New sentencing alternatives for some felony DUI cases, including treatment-based options aimed at addressing substance use issues.
- Expanded options for deferred prosecution, including limited eligibility for a second deferred prosecution in certain circumstances.
- Clarifications to ignition interlock and license processes, which may affect driving privileges and reinstatement procedures after a DUI.
WHY DO THESE CHANGES IN THE LAW MATTER?
A DUI conviction—especially a felony impaired driving charge—can carry serious penalties. Longer jail sentences, extended probation, ignition interlock device requirements, and lasting impacts on your driving record and insurance. And because the new law looks further back into a person’s history, older convictions now heavily influence how current charges are handled.
Please contact my office if you, a friend or family member are charged with DUI or any other crime. Hiring an effective and competent defense attorney is the first and best step toward justice.
