Recent Blog Posts
Will There Be DUI Checkpoints in Washington?
The State of Washington is working hard to find sensible, effective ways to crack down on drunk driving. We already have some of the harshest punishments for first time and repeat DUI offenders, but the problem just seems to be getting worse. According to the Washington Department of Transportation, there were 38,000 DUI arrests… Read More »
Changes To Washington’s DUI Laws
EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1, 2012 Following the unanimous approval of the Washington House and Senate, Governor Christine Gregoire signed Second Substitute House Bill 2443, which by amendment to several statutes, effectively imposes greater sanctions and costs for Driving Under the Influence in the State of Washington. Below is a listing of some of the applicable… Read More »
Alcohol Related Driving Offenses: Negligent Driving In The First Degree
It is a common misconception that driving a vehicle while one’s blood alcohol level is below 0.08 ng/ml is not illegal. However, if the operation of the vehicle is determined to be both negligent and endangers person or property one can be cited for Negligent Driving in the First Degree with a blood alcohol… Read More »
Washington State Ignition Interlock License (IIL)
On January 1, 2009, the Washington State Dept. of Licensing created the Ignition Interlock License. This license allows individuals whose license has been suspended or revoked for an alcohol related driving offense to continue driving provided their vehicle is equipped with an ignition interlock device. The ignition interlock equipment will prevent your vehicle from… Read More »
Domestic Violence in Washington
Under Washington laws Domestic Violence is defined by RCW 10.99.020. The laws of Washington describe domestic violence as a crime committed by one family or household member against another family or household member. Domestic violence can also occur between individuals that are involved in a dating relationship. In addition to spouses, people that have… Read More »
General Info on DUI Defense
The consequences of a DUI /DWI conviction can have profound impact including mandatory jail time, suspension or revocation of your privilege to drive, mandated substance abuse evaluation and treatment, significant fines and high risk insurance premiums. In many instances the consequences of a DUI/DWI conviction can be as great or greater than a felony… Read More »
General Info on Criminal Defense
Whether you are charged with a felony, gross misdemeanor or misdemeanor offense the impact of criminal charge on one’s life can have devastating effects. It is at this time that you need to have an experienced criminal defense attorney in your corner. John Lutgens has been practicing criminal defense law in Southwest Washington and… Read More »
General Info on Bankruptcy
When facing financial difficulties the consideration of filing for bankruptcy protection is a difficult and often times emotional decision. With the current economic conditions many people are finding themselves unable to meet the financial obligations they were once able to meet. Understanding that sometimes good people find themselves in overwhelming financial problems the Law… Read More »
