Regardless of where in the State of Washington you were arrested for DUI, the reality of an ignition interlock device is becoming more and more common. What further complicates this area is that the laws regarding ignition interlock devices (IIDs) seem to change on an annual basis. Currently there are four (4) situations when an IID might come into play. These laws are scheduled to change again in 2011.
IID as a pretrial condition of release
Though not extremely common, many courts will order the installation of an IID at arraignment as a condition of continued release while the DUI charge is pending. Courts that order an IID at this stage normally do so when the defendant has prior convictions for DUI or alcohol related offenses. It is uncommon, though sometimes happens, even if it is a person's first DUI charge.
Getting an IID in order to continue driving after administrative suspension
One of the most beneficial changes to Washington State's DUI laws over the last several years was the allowance for an Ignition Interlock License (IIL) for individuals whose licenses have been suspended administratively. This means that if the Washington State Department of Licensing suspends a license as the result of a DUI arrest, in most cases that person can continue driving, as long as they have a car equipped with an IID and have proof of SR-22 insurance. There is an application process that must be followed and it can take a while for the IIL request to be processed. But for the most part, a DUI arrest does not have to mean the end of driving for extended periods of time.
Court mandated IID as a condition of a DUI conviction
One of the not so beneficial changes to Washington's DUI laws is the requirement that anyone who is convicted of a DUI, who intends to continue driving, must obtain an IIL. This is regardless of the level of the BAC, whether the person has had any prior DUIs and even though they may not suffer from alcohol dependency or alcohol abuse. Violation of this condition would mean mandatory jail time.
IIDs and Deferred Prosecution
Currently, anyone who petitions and receives and deferred prosecution for a DUI charge must obtain an IIL.
As mentioned, IIL and IID laws are always changing. Go to the following link for a broader treatment of the subject. Washington's Ignition Interlock Laws. Or contact one of the Seattle DUI lawyers at Milios Defense for a consultation.