On March 8, 2012 the Washington State Legislature approved a host of changes to state laws against driving under the influence (“DUI”) of alcohol or drugs. The proposed laws awaiting the governor’s signature would:

(1) keep felony DUI-related convictions on a person’s criminal record permanently; (2) require impaired drivers who get their licenses reinstated to install in their car an ignition-locking device equipped with a camera (that way, authorities can better determine whether the person breathing into the device to start the car is, in fact, the person behind the wheel.); (3) allow prosecutors to bring DUI charges against people who drive impaired after inhaling or huffing chemicals. The bill that Gov. Christine Gregoire is expected to sign would also make the jail/ prison penalty for DUI vehicular homicide 6 ½ to 8 ½ years, the same as manslaughter. Currently the maximum prison sentence for DUI vehicular homicide is four years.

Another bill currently in the House rules committee would allow courts to order impaired DUI drivers to pay child support to the minor children of the those folks killed or harmed by the impaired driver.

Now, more than ever, it is critical to retain a reputable and qualified Seattle DUI lawyer when arrested for DUI in Washington State. The right Seattle DUI attorney will be worth his/her weight in gold when protecting your rights, freedom and future. The Seattle DUI attorneys that make up the litigation team of SQ Attorneys are dedicated to defending those accused of drunk driving. They have the experience, knowledge and resources to successfully defend your case. Unlike other law firms that practice in many areas of the law, SQ Attorneys is focused on criminal defense representation with an emphasis on DUI defense in Western Washington.

If you or a loved one is faced with a DUI charge in Western Washington, you deserve the assistance of a reputable and qualified Seattle DUI attorney who will relentlessly defend your case. You deserve a Seattle DUI lawyer who has an intimate understanding of Washington DUI laws and the legal issues that could win your case. You deserve a Seattle DUI attorney who is not afraid to stand up against the prosecution and aggressively fight for your rights and interests. SQ Attorneys is the right Western Washington DUI law firm for the job. Call for a free initial consultation – (206) 441.0900 (Seattle); (425) 998-8384 (Eastside) – it will be the best decision you make all day.