Snohomish County DUI Trial Lawyers

How DUI Trials Work in Washington State

If you have been arrested for DUI in Snohomish County or anywhere in Western Washington, and the prosecution refuses to negotiate or plea bargain to reduce or dismiss your charge in the pretrial hearing, your case will go to trial. 

As a team of experienced and skilled DUI lawyers, we are very familiar with the many ways the prosecution's case and evidence can be challenged. Our Snohomish County DUI trial attorneys have successfully argued against the state's case on behalf of those accused of DUI throughout Washington. To learn how our firm can fight for you, reach out to us today and schedule a FREE consultation. We are available 24/7 to take your call, every single day of the year.

Call DUIHeroes at (425) 296-9358 or contact us online to get started with a completely free and confidential consultation. 

Bench Trials vs. Jury Trials: Key Differences

If your DUI case goes to trial, you can have either a jury trial or a "bench trial." There are several important distinctions between these two types of trials. 

Regardless, in either type of trial—a bench trial or jury trial—the prosecution and defense both have the opportunity to present their evidence and testimony. In each case, the burden of proof lies on the prosecution to clearly show that you were driving under the influence and if they cannot do so, your charges must be dismissed.

Bench Trials for DUI in Snohomish County

A bench trial has no jurors; instead, your case is heard and the sentence decided by a judge. This may be a strategic option, depending on the specifics of your case.

It may be wise to negotiate for a bench trial when your case involves: 

• Specific factors that may be swayed by jurors' emotions
• Technical evidence that may not be well-understood by the typical juror
• Highly complex legal arguments or aspects best understood by a judge
• Time-sensitive factors, as bench trial are often faster than jury trials

However, you always have the right to a trial by jury, and this is what we most often recommend for our clients whose cases proceed to trial.

Jury Trials for DUI in Snohomish County

A jury trial begins with the selection of a panel of six jurors. This process is called "voir dire," and both sides can affect which jurors are chosen. In a jury trial for DUI, the jury must reach a unanimous decision to either acquit or convict the defendant. Otherwise, it becomes a "hung jury." The prosecution must clearly prove that the accused is guilty of the DUI charge, and, if they cannot provide sufficient testimony and evidence to support the charges, the jury must find the defendant "not-guilty."

The Washington State DUI Trial Process

After the jury hears opening arguments, the prosecution presents its case. They begin by calling their witnesses, typically including the arresting officer, other witnesses at the scene, and any experts involved in testing the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of the defendant. 

An aggressive and well-prepared cross-examination of the witnesses by a competent defense attorney could result in the prosecution's case falling apart. If it proves necessary, the defense can call witnesses and present evidence on your behalf. 

After closing arguments, the jury is sent off to reach their verdict. Their decision must be unanimous to either acquit or convict.

How We Can Help with Your Snohomish County DUI Trial

If you have been arrested for or charged with DUI in Snohomish County, WA, or anywhere in the state, it's critical that you contact an experienced DUI defense attorney right away. At DUIHeroes, we can help you prepare for what comes next, including going to trial. Our team is well-versed in Washington State DUI laws and trial processes; we have a 95% average success rate in getting clients' first offenses reduced or dismissed*, and we are prepared to fight tirelessly for the best possible outcome in your case.

Contact us today at (425) 296-9358 to discuss how our DUI trial lawyers in Snohomish County can prepare a vigorous defense to your DUI charges and represent you at trial, if necessary.