For those facing a DUI in Washington State don’t get too excited or overly expectant when reading about Tiger Woods’ resolution of his Florida DUI case. Friday Tiger Woods is expected to enter a ‘diversion program’ for intoxicated drivers. It is one of several programs across the country aimed at reducing the number of repeat DUI offenders in the US. Sadly, as of yet, this type of program is not offered in Washington state to those charged with DUI.
Via the diversion program Woods will spend a year on court supervised probation, pay a $250 fine and court costs, be subject to regular drug testing, attend “DUI School”, perform community service, and attend a workshop where victims of impaired driving detail accounts of how DUI’s have impacted their lives (in Washington, similar courses are called “DUI Victim’s Panels”). Under the diversion program guidelines, all offenders must first show they have started the aforementioned requirements before being accepted into the program. As of now, there are no efforts underway to have Washington enact such a diversion program. This is so even though Florida’s Deputy State Attorney claims that less than one percent of Florida’s program’s participants have reoffended.
If you or a loved one is accused of DUI, you should immediately 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.
