What is the difference between dwi and dui? And out of the two which is the lesser charge in Washington state?
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What is the difference between dwi and dui? And out of the two which is the lesser charge in Washington state?
Asked on May 14, 2009 under Criminal Law, Washington
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 14 years ago | Contributor
While some states make a distinction between "DUI" and "DWI" Washington State does not. Many use the two terms interchangeably, although DUI is the exact legal term. Washington does have a "per se"law, meaning that you may be convicted of a DUI in Washington if you drive with an alcohol level of .08 or greater.
Drunk driving defense is a specialized area. You should contact a DUI attorney in the area where this happened. He will know the prosecutors and be familar with local practice.
For a look at the penalties for DUI, refer to: www.dol.wa.gov/driverslicense/dui.html
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