About Callahan Law
Led by nationally recognized DUI defense attorney Linda Callahan, Callahan Law has helped thousands of clients fight DUI charges across Washington.
Led by nationally recognized DUI defense attorney Linda Callahan, Callahan Law has helped thousands of clients fight DUI charges across Washington.
.webp)
%201.png)
Every DUI case is different. Learn more about the types of DUI charges and what to expect.
A DUI, or Driving Under the Influence, is a legal charge for operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or other substances. It is a serious offense because impaired driving significantly increases the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
BAC stands for Blood Alcohol Concentration — the percentage of alcohol in a person's bloodstream.
Legal limits in the U.S. typically include:
Exceeding these limits can result in arrest, license suspension, fines, and even jail time.
A DUI isn't limited to alcohol. Impairment can result from:
Legal limits in the U.S. typically include:
These substances can affect coordination, reaction time, judgment, and alertness—even at low doses—making it dangerous to drive.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) carries serious consequences that vary by state, prior offenses, and level of impairment. Below is a high-level overview of the most common penalties, with links to explore each in more detail.
Facing a DUI charge can be overwhelming. Here's a step-by-step guide through the legal process, from the moment of arrest to possible outcomes.

The process begins when a law enforcement officer stops a driver suspected of impairment. This may involve:
Once arrested, the driver is typically taken to jail or a holding facility.
The accused appears in court to hear the charges and enter a plea:
Bail may be set, and future court dates are scheduled.
.webp)
.webp)
In many states, the DMV automatically suspends the driver's license—separate from court proceedings.
You may have a limited window (e.g., 10 days) to request a hearing to challenge the suspension.
The defense and prosecution exchange evidence (discovery). Possible outcomes include:
At trial, evidence is presented and a verdict is reached.


If convicted or a plea is entered, sentencing may include:
Repeat offenses typically carry more severe penalties.





If you’ve been charged with a DUI, time is critical. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better your chances of protecting your rights and minimizing penalties. Here’s why acting now matters:

