Are you worried about what comes next now that you’ve been pulled over by law enforcement? A traffic stop is not only stressful in the moment. It also creates mixed feelings for days—if not weeks—after the fact, especially if you haven’t received any updates.
This type of situation can be a lot to handle, particularly if your mind is wandering and your thoughts are getting the better of you. Instead of overthinking about what could happen, why not reach out to our Olympia criminal defense lawyers for legal advice and professional input?
At NextLaw, our attorneys have more than 100 years of combined experience. Together, we have participated in over 150 jury trials, and we know what it takes to represent you. If you’re in need of help from an Olympia traffic offenses lawyer, Call Dan Next!
The Impact of a Traffic Offense in Olympia
Many people assume traffic tickets are minor issues until the consequences begin to surface. In Olympia, traffic offenses can affect far more than just your driving record.
Even a single citation can lead to higher insurance premiums, employment complications, or license restrictions that disrupt your daily life. Olympia traffic offenses attorneys focus on protecting drivers from penalties that extend beyond what people usually expect.
Whether your case remains civil or moves into criminal court, early legal guidance can help prevent small issues from becoming long-term problems.
For a free legal consultation with a traffic offenses lawyer serving Olympia, call (253) 238-2558
Understanding Washington Traffic Laws
Washington traffic laws are incredibly detailed and highly specific. Outcomes depend not just on what happened, but how the incident was documented, charged, and processed.
Officers are required to follow strict procedures when issuing citations or making arrests, and courts rely heavily on that documentation.
Our Olympia traffic offenses lawyers help clients understand how Washington laws apply to their situations and where legal defenses exist. Knowing your rights early on in the process means you can make informed decisions before the consequences escalate.
Olympia Traffic Offenses Lawyer Near Me
Call: (253) 238-2558Civil Infractions vs. Criminal Traffic Charges
Washington State law distinguishes between civil traffic infractions and criminal traffic offenses, and the difference matters. Civil infractions include violations such as speeding, running a red light, or failing to yield.
While these do not often coincide with jail time as a consequence, they will still impact your driving record and insurance rates. In fact, multiple infractions within a short period can lead to license suspension by the Department of Licensing.
Criminal traffic offenses include DUI, reckless driving, and negligent driving in the first degree. These cases are prosecuted in criminal court and can carry jail time, probation, license suspension, and long-term consequences that follow you well beyond the resolution of the case.
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DUI Charges in Washington State
DUI charges in Washington are serious traffic-related offenses. Washington applies a 10-year lookback period, meaning prior DUI-related convictions can influence charging decisions and sentencing even years later.
The idea that older DUI convictions do not count is misleading. Even convictions decades old may affect how prosecutors evaluate a case. Washington also no longer uses outdated breathalyzer devices.
The state now relies on the Dräger Alcotest, which comes with technical standards and calibration requirements that must be examined carefully. Olympia traffic offenses lawyers understand how DUI cases are built and where weaknesses may exist.
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Department of Licensing Hearings
A DUI arrest triggers two separate legal processes. One takes place in court, and the other occurs through the Washington Department of Licensing. These processes move on different timelines and have different rules.
Drivers generally have seven days to request a DOL hearing to challenge a license suspension. Missing that deadline can result in an automatic suspension, regardless of what happens in court. This is where The NextLaw Edge applies.
Our DUI defense attorneys pay the DOL hearing fee for clients who act within the required timeframe. We fight license suspensions because preserving your ability to drive often protects your ability to work and support your family.
Reckless and Negligent Driving Charges
Reduced charges—such as driving recklessly or engaging in negligence in the first degree—are often viewed as lesser alternatives to DUI. However, these offenses still carry serious consequences under Washington law.
Reckless driving is a gross misdemeanor. It can result in jail time, license suspension, and long-term insurance implications. Negligent driving in the first degree also carries criminal penalties that can influence future DUI-related sentencing decisions.
For Legal Advice From Our Olympia Traffic Offenses Attorneys, Call Dan Next!
At NextLaw, we help Olympia residents who are facing traffic citations, and we can help you through Washington State’s fast-moving legal system. Our traffic offenses attorneys in Olympia have decades of combined trial experience and insider knowledge as former prosecutors.
Even seemingly minor traffic matters can escalate quickly. From missed deadlines and lost evidence to license penalties and everything in between, a lot can happen before you even get the chance to step foot in court. That’s why taking legal action early on is so important.
With our Olympia traffic offenses lawyers by your side, you’ll receive clear advice, a practical strategy, and personalized advocacy. We’re here to protect your rights while working toward a favorable outcome in your case. If you’re in need of representation, Call Dan Next!
Call or text (253) 238-2558 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form