Weighing in on Deferred Prosecutions
Spokane Criminal Defense Lawyer Steve Graham posted recently on his blog discussing the perceived double standard of deferred prosecutions. I thought, as it is often seen as a “Get out of Jail Free” card (I’ve even used the phrase myself) that I’d weigh in.
As a Lynnwood DUI Lawyer I am of course well versed in the deferred prosecution program, and have had several clients apply for it. But do not under any circumstances expect it.
I give the example of a client who has racked up three DUIs in recent history, and appeals to the court for help with his drinking problem through the DP program. The court, knowing that this is seen as a get out of jail free card questions his commitment to sobriety and his future. The court continues the case just to see if the defendant is serious about it. Then puts him on ZERO TOLERANCE for the length of the DP.
I’ve seen these revoked and a full year be imposed.
Steve said it right. They’re easy to get (sometimes) – but HARD to complete.
If you want a lawyer to evaluate whether or not a DP is the right choice for YOUR DUI case – call Lynnwood DUI Attorney Jonathan Dichter at 425-424-9401 now for your FREE CONSULTATION!
Breath Tests in King County – Coming Back?
Not yet – at least that’s my take on it. Although Dan Satterberg and his friends at the King County Prosecutor’s office would like to have it differently.
As you may recall – 2 years ago the Washington State Toxicology Lab engaged in fraudulent and misleading science (some say potato, some say perjury) – and breath tests disappeared as a result. Now they think they’ve cleaned up their act, as I’ve reported previously here on these pages.
If you have a Washington DUI (King County Especially) – this story should interest you. Read More about King County Breath Tests
Dog House DUI
Every now and again, I want to highlight folks who get drunk and do stupid things, so that you know that you’re not alone. Anyone can make a mistake and get a Washington DUI. Anyone at all.
Even a sheriff’s deputy!
Meet Deputy Samuel Bledsoe, who, according to the Kingsport Times-News, was arrested for DUI in Tennessee and was so belligerent that he was locked in a dog cage.
From the Associated Press: Read More about Dog House DUI
No Bail on a Snohomish County DUI
It used to be that you could always count on the judge at least setting some bail amount, if not outright releasing you from custody. However, that all changed recently, when local Snohomish County District Court Judge Jeffrey Goodwin held a defendant who got popped for another Washington State DUI while his was pending in Goodwin’s court, without bail being set.
A Snohomish County Superior Court Judge upheld the decision.
