Washington State DUI Court Appearances
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some answers to the many questions I'm asked about DUI Laws and
procedures in Washington State. The categories of questions are as follows:
Washington State Drunk Driving Court Appearances - FAQs:
- If I hired an attorney, do I have to go to court?
- I missed a court date, what should I do now?
- I live in another state; do I still have to go to court?
- Will the judge treat me differently if I hire an
attorney?
- What should I wear to court?
If I hired an attorney, do I have to go to court?
Since you have been charged with a DUI, you MUST appear at every
court hearing, even if you have an attorney.
I missed a court date, what should I do now?
Typically, if you miss a court date a warrant will issue for your
arrest. Depending on the court, you may be able to walk in and quash the
warrant, call and reset, or turn yourself in to the jail. With an attorney's
help, a new date can be set for your appearance.
I live in another state; do I still have to go to
court?
Most likely you will have to appear at the arraignment. You must
appear at all court hearings, like a citizen from the State of Washington.
Will the judge treat me differently if I hire an
attorney?
The short answer is no. An experienced attorney will guide you
through the system and that generally saves the court time. As a general
rule, having an attorney usually gets you into and out of court faster.
What should I wear to court?
If you are attending a criminal court you should dress in good quality
clothing. Such as clothes that you would wear to a job interview in an
office, or what you would wear to a wedding or church. It is important to
show respect for the court. Whether you like to show respect or not, you
will not get a Judge to exercise discretion in your favor if you dress with
disrespect.
Never wear a hat, chew gum, or leave your Walkman and headphones on in a
courtroom. Never permit your cell phone or pager to be turned
on in the courtroom; leave it locked in your car.
Judges get very upset when people wear shorts, light flimsy tops,
revealing necklines, bare belly buttons, or bare shoulders.
Shirts should be tucked in and buttoned up. Belts should be fastened.
Shoes should be worn. If you wear a t-shirt, I don't recommend it. Please
make sure it doesn't bear any beer or alcohol advertisement, or any
anti-social slogan.
If your son or daughter or spouse has been placed in custody and does not
have appropriate clothing, contact the police or the jail where they are
being held, and bring them appropriate clothing. It is amazing how many
accused persons in custody come to court without shoes. You can't expect the
custodial authorities to supply them with clothing, any clothing.
[more WA DUI FAQs
- Dept of Licensing]
Please call me for your free consultation to discuss any of these
questions and how they may apply in your case, or if you have additional
questions that I haven't covered.
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