If you were arrested for DUI in or around Selah, Washington, you are likely facing serious consequences — fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol treatment, and potentially jail time. A DUI conviction in Washington State can follow you for years, affecting your job, your insurance rates, and your freedom to drive. Attorney Tony Swartz represents drivers from Selah and throughout Yakima County, and he knows how to fight these charges aggressively.

Selah Drivers Are Charged in Yakima County District Court

Selah is located in Yakima County, which means most DUI arrests made within city limits are prosecuted by the Selah Municipal Court if arrested by a city officer, or if by State Patrol or County the case will likely be in Yakima County District Court. Tony Swartz has years of experience in this court and understands local prosecutors, judges, and procedures. That local knowledge matters when it comes to negotiating plea agreements, challenging evidence, or taking a case to trial.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Washington?

After a DUI arrest in Washington, you face two separate processes: a criminal case in court and an administrative license suspension through the Department of Licensing (DOL). You have only 7 days from your arrest to request a DOL hearing to contest the suspension of your license. If you miss this deadline, your license will be automatically suspended. Tony Swartz handles both the criminal defense and the DOL hearing process for his clients.

Washington DUI Penalties

A first-offense DUI in Washington carries a minimum of 24 hours in jail (or 15 days of electronic home monitoring), a minimum fine, 90-day license suspension, and mandatory ignition interlock after reinstatement. Penalties increase for a BAC of .15 or above, with prior convictions, or if there was a minor was in the vehicle. Washington also imposes a 7-year lookback period so any prior DUI within 7 years counts as a prior offense for sentencing purposes.

Can a DUI Charge Be Fought?

Yes. DUI cases are fact-intensive, and the prosecution must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. Tony Swartz examines the reason for the initial traffic stop, the officer's administration of field sobriety tests, the calibration and maintenance records of the breath test machine, and whether proper procedures were followed throughout the arrest. A single procedural error can be grounds to suppress evidence or negotiate a reduction in charges. Tony also uses a consultant to review every case for field sobriety test issues, stop issues, and breath test issues - this is no charge to you and different from most local attorneys. Two sets of eyes are always better than one!

Why Choose Tony Swartz for Your Selah DUI Case?

Tony Swartz is a dedicated DUI and criminal defense attorney who focuses his practice on Yakima and Kittitas County cases. He personally handles every DUI case. You will not be handed off to a paralegal or junior associate. He is familiar with the roads, the courts, and the law enforcement agencies that serve the Selah area, and he is committed to getting you the best possible outcome. Call today for a free consultation: (509) 293-7593