Potential DUI clients who visit with us for the first time often ask us similar questions. One such question is, “What can I do to show that I am taking this seriously?” Greg and I answer this question the same way each and every time, immediately attend a DUI Victims Panel. Attending a DUI Victim’s Panel helps show that you are taking responsibility for the situation you find yourself in (without admitting guilt), and it may help reduce the number of conditions of release a court may impose upon you while your case is pending in a court of law.
A DUI Victim Impact Panel is an awareness program for those facing a driving under the influence of alcohol or other drug related charge. The participant attends a two – two point five hour educational session, consisting of a non-confrontational presentation by individuals who volunteer to tell their own personal stories of how impaired drivers forever changed their lives. Once completed, the participant receives a ‘certificate of completion’ that can be filed with the court.
First time offenders may also want to participate in an alcohol/ drug information class, which is geared toward helping people make more responsible decisions concerning alcohol and other drug use. Classes are typically 8 hours, and are intended to be non-judgemental forums for honest and open discussions about drug and alcohol use. The participant also learns valuable information about the effects of drugs and alcohol on the body, and similar to the victim panel, receives a ‘certificate of completion’ that can be filed with the court.
So there you have it, two things that can be done right away if facing a first time DUI in Washington State. We have said it before, but it definitely bears repeating … Washington DUI laws are getting tougher. Be smart when arrested for DUI, immediately seek the assistance of a Seattle DUI lawyer. A qualified and trained Seattle DUI attorneys will sift through the myriad and numerous defenses in a Washington DUI case. So if facing a DUI, do not go it alone, and do not just hire some ‘general’ practitioner. Washington DUI laws are far too complicated for any ol’ attorney to handle. Be smart … hire a qualified, skilled Seattle DUI attorney when arrested for DUI in Washington State.
