Drink Responsibly—Know the Law, Protect Your Future

At Althauser Rayan Abbarno, we care about your well-being—and the well-being of everyone on the road. If you plan on drinking, plan ahead: designate a sober driver, use a ride-share, or stay put.

But if you ever find yourself facing DUI charges, know that we’re here to protect your rights with a free consultation.


⚖️ Washington DUI Laws & Penalties

Under RCW 46.61.502 and 46.61.504, you’re legally intoxicated in Washington with a BAC of 0.08% or higher for adults—and even lower if you’re under 21 or commercial driver.

Washington uses a sentencing grid based on BAC level and previous offenses:

  • First-offense DUI
    • 🧾 BAC < 0.15% (or no test): At least 24 hours jail (or 15 days electronic home monitoring), up to 364 days. Fines: $990.50–$5,000. License suspension: 90 days. Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 1 year.
    • 🧾 BAC ≥ 0.15% or refusing test: At least 48 hours jail (or 30 days home monitoring), up to 364 days. Fines: $1,245.50–$5,000. License suspension: 1–2 years.
  • Second DUI (within 7 years)
    • BAC < 0.15%: At least 30 days jail + 60 days home monitoring. Fines: $1,245.50–$5,000. License revoked 2 years.
    • BAC ≥ 0.15% or refusal: At least 45 days jail + 90 days monitoring. Fines: $1,670.50–$5,000. License suspension: 900 days–3 years.
  • Third DUI (two prior within 7 years)
    • BAC < 0.15%: At least 90 days jail + 120 days home monitoring. Fines: $2,095.50–$5,000. License suspension: 3 years.
    • BAC ≥ 0.15% or refusal: At least 120 days jail + 150 days monitoring. Fines: $2,945.50–$5,000. License suspension: 4 years.

Additional consequences include a 5‑year statutory probation, mandatory alcohol/drug evaluation, victim impact panels, and IID installation for a minimum of 1, 5, or 10 years depending on offense count.


🚨 Why It Matters

A DUI conviction can disrupt your life: you’ll face lost driving privileges, financial strain, higher insurance rates, and personal stress. With higher BAC or repeat offenses, penalties can quickly escalate—making certainty of legal guidance invaluable.


✅ How We Can Help

At Althauser Rayan Abbarno, our criminal defense team has the experience, resources, and local insight to defend your rights. We offer:

  • Free DUI consultations in Centralia by calling (360) 736-1301
  • 24/7 access to legal support centralialaw.com
  • Seasoned attorneys (some former prosecutors and defenders) centralialaw.com

Whether you’re preparing a defense, need help restoring your license, or exploring other options, we can walk you through the process—without any upfront cost.


Final Takeaway

Drinking responsibly isn’t just smart—it’s the law. But mistakes happen. If you’re charged, don’t face it alone. Contact Althauser Rayan Abbarno today for your free consultation. Your future matters—and so do your rights.