The Prosecuting Attorney On Your DUI Case Matters

If you’ve recently been arrested for DUI in Washington, you might assume the laws and penalties are the same across the entire state—and technically, that’s true. Washington has a uniform DUI statute that governs what counts as a DUI, what penalties apply, and what rights you have. 

Here’s what most people don’t realize: your experience with the criminal justice system can vary significantly depending on where your DUI case is being handled.

That’s because each county—and even individual cities—can have very different approaches when it comes to prosecuting DUI cases. 

Local prosecutors, courts, and judges have discretion when it comes to how they enforce the law, how they handle plea negotiations, and what types of alternative resolutions they offer. 

For example, a DUI in Kitsap County might be eligible for a reduction to a lesser charge if you complete proactive steps early, particularly where there are no aggravating factors to the case. In contrast, a DUI in Pierce or Snohomish County might come with a much tougher stance, including mandatory jail time or stricter probation terms—even for first-time offenders.

These local differences aren’t outlined in the law itself, but they can have a huge impact on how your case plays out. That’s why it’s critical to work with a DUI defense lawyer who doesn’t just understand the law—but knows the local courts, prosecutors, and procedures in your specific jurisdiction.

If you call us, you will find out that we take cases from very few counties or cities – only those we have been working in for years, if not decades. If you think of the practice of law from a business perspective, this should make sense to most people. 

If a firm takes on every case in every county but doesn’t have the time or knowledge to know the nitty gritty of every city or county – the results will be average. From a business model, average can keep you afloat. Using the “average” skillset to apply to all courts will work in some and miss the mark in others, which results in your median success rate as average.

Conversely, a firm that has a special niche and targeted on very few courts is more likely to handle those cases like a specialist, which we believe results in more positive and predictable outcomes. 

DUI IN WASHINGTON – JAIL

While we want to help anyone accused of a crime in Washington State, we also want to do the best job. In our opinion, it is not possible to be an expert on every local jurisdiction. So, if the case isn’t in one of our courts, we will happily offer a referral to another great defense attorney (if we know one where you are charged).

At Witt Law Group, we understand and appreciate the nuances of each court. We know what each local prosecutor in the courts we practice will typically require for a favorable resolution, and we help our clients take the right steps quickly to protect their future.

If you’re facing a DUI charge, reach out to learn how your location may affect your options—and how we can help you navigate the process. (360) 792-1000

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