Some folks ask SQ Attorneys, “how long does the government have to charge me for DUI?” This question arises because often folks cited for DUI don’t go to court right away. The truth of the matter is that prosecutors have up to 2 years to charge someone for DUI (so long as it doesn’t rise to the level of a felony). One reason the prosecutor may take her sweet time to charge someone for DUI is that she is waiting on blood results to come back from the state toxicology lab.
The City Seattle City Attorney recently submitted an editorial opinion in the Seattle Times lamenting about the length of time it takes to get blood results back. She noted one solution that she felt was necessary – allowing private nationally accredited labs to test DUI toxicology samples.
Currently only the Washington State Patrol Toxicology lab can do testing on DUI blood samples. The lab has been overwhelmed with work for several years now and as a direct consequence, it can take over a year to get the blood test results back. According to government officials, the rub with the delay is that those facing possible DUI charges aren’t facing any consequences during that wait period. This – claims the Seattle City Attorney – is a key factor in being unable to effectively reduce impaired driving in Washington State; she claims justice is abated and public safety is at risk.
In order to effectuate change on the DUI toxicology front, the Washington State legislature would need to modify state law. There is little doubt that such a change would meet with feisty opposition. The real resolution perhaps lies with the WSP toxicology lab getting more efficient with better government support; there is no need to farm out the WSP’s job to a private entity.
If you or a loved one is in a bind as a result of a criminal charge, immediately contact a Seattle DUI Attorney. A DUI lawyer is not going to judge you and understands that everyone makes mistakes. Hiring a Seattle DUI Lawyer to help can – at a minimum – reduce penalties and can help direct people on how to best deal with their DUI charge, and many times even get them dismissed. So, it should go without saying that someone cited for a Gross misdemeanor or felony DUI should hire a qualified Seattle DUI Lawyer as soon as possible. DUI charges can cause havoc on a person’s personal and professional life. Anyone charged with a DUI in Washington State should immediately seek the assistance of a seasoned Seattle DUI Lawyer. SQ Attorneys can be reached at (425) 359-3791 and/or (206) 441-0900.
