While a DUI case is pending, court’s routinely require the defendant to follow certain guidelines/ conditions. Standard ‘conditions of release’ include don’t drive within 24 hours of drinking, don’t have a BAC of .08 or greater, don’t refuse a breath or blood test if lawfully requested to take one, and don’t commit crime. In DUI cases involving an accident or that are deemed a second offense within a seven year period, judges often require more than the aforementioned standard conditions of release. It is not uncommon, in fact, for a judge to order a Defendant to wear a ‘transdermal alcohol monitoring’ device while their case is pending. Transdermal alcohol monitoring is a technology that permits the detection of alcohol as it passes through the skin as it is eliminated from the body. The results are then monitored and reported to court officials.
Currently, there are two primary transdermal alcohol detection devices being used around the country for monitoring DUI defendants. The one used in Washington is called the Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring (SCRAM). The SCRAM device consists of an ankle bracelet that measures transdermal concentration, stores data, then uploads the data to a modem that transfers data to computers monitored by the vendor. This information is then used to generate reports and alerts if alcohol is detected. If detected, the court is notified and the Defendant may be booked into custody while his case is pending.
The SCRAM bracelet is designed to prevent removal or tampering and any attempt to do so can be detected by the vendor. The SCRAM device has evolved over the years and the current version is smaller and slightly less bulky than its predecessor. That said, it is not the prettiest thing to look at, and certainly it is not one you will find being sold at any local jewelry store. Lest it be said, a SCRAM bracelet is anything but a trendy fashion statement.
Any person accused of DUI should consult with a qualified Seattle DUI lawyer. A qualified and respected Seattle DUI lawyer, among other things, can quite possibly save the aggrieved person thousands of dollars in court and insurance fees, the extent of loss of privilege to drive, and the amount of jail time to be served. We have said it before and will say it again, Washington DUI laws are far too complicated for any ol’ attorney to handle. Be smart and consult with a qualified and skilled Seattle DUI attorney when arrested for an alcohol and/or drug related DUI in Washington State.
