Repeat or Felony DUI Charges
Repeat or Felony DUI Charges in Vancouver, WA
If you’ve been charged with a repeat DUI or felony DUI in Vancouver, WA, you are facing far more than just fines and a suspended license — your freedom, your career, and your future are on the line. Washington State imposes increasingly severe penalties for repeat offenses, and under certain circumstances, a DUI can be charged as a felony.
At the Law Office of Adin Johnson, our DUI defense attorney provide focused, results-driven defense for clients charged with second, third, or felony DUI offenses. We understand the stakes — and we are ready to fight for you.
Types of DUI Charges We Handle
What Is Considered a Repeat DUI in Washington?
Washington has a 7-year lookback period for DUI offenses. This means that any prior DUI conviction, deferred prosecution, or amended charge like reckless driving within the last 7 years will be counted against you when facing new charges.
Second DUI in 7 years = elevated jail time, fines, and license penalties
Third DUI in 7 years = even higher penalties and mandatory treatment
Four or more DUIs in 10 years may result in felony DUI charges
What Makes a DUI a Felony in Washington?
Most DUI charges in Washington are misdemeanors. However, a DUI becomes a Class B Felony under RCW 46.61.502(6) if:
You have four or more prior DUI offenses within the last 10 years
You have a prior conviction for vehicular assault or vehicular homicide while under the influence
You were driving with a suspended or revoked license due to a prior DUI
You have prior felony DUI convictions
Felony DUI penalties can include:
Up to 10 years in prison
$20,000 in fines
Permanent loss of driving privileges
Felony record that can impact employment, housing, and civil rights
Penalties for Repeat DUI Offenses in Washington
Below is a breakdown of typical sentencing outcomes for repeat DUIs:
Second Offense (within 7 years)
30 to 45 days in jail, plus 60 to 90 days of electronic home monitoring (EHM)
$1,200–$5,000 in fines
2-year license suspension
Ignition interlock device (IID) for at least 5 years
Mandatory alcohol or drug treatment
Up to 5 years probation
Third Offense (within 7 years)
90 to 120 days in jail, plus 120 to 150 days EHM
3-year license suspension
Higher fines and longer IID requirements
Mandatory participation in alcohol treatment programs
Up to 5 years probation
How the Law Office of Adin Johnson Can Help
Facing repeat or felony DUI charges in Washington demands a strategic, experienced defense. At the Law Office of Adin Johnson, we provide personalized legal representation designed to reduce or eliminate the long-term consequences of your charges.
We Offer:
✅ Thorough Case Analysis
We analyze all aspects of your arrest — including whether police followed proper procedures during your stop, testing, and booking. Any mistake could be used to weaken the prosecution’s case.
✅ Challenging the Evidence
We evaluate the reliability of breath or blood tests, scrutinize field sobriety test results, and challenge the legality of any search or seizure.
✅ Minimizing Penalties Through Negotiation
For repeat offenses, we may negotiate alternatives such as treatment-based sentencing or argue for reduced charges when appropriate.
✅ Prepared for Trial if Needed
If your case must go to court, we are fully prepared to mount a strong and strategic defense. Our courtroom experience allows us to confidently advocate for our clients.
✅ Protecting Your License
We represent you during Department of Licensing (DOL) hearings to fight administrative suspensions and help preserve your ability to drive.
Repeat or felony DUI Offenses Attorney FAQs
What qualifies as a repeat DUI in Washington?
A repeat DUI in Washington refers to a second or subsequent DUI offense committed within seven years of a previous DUI conviction or a reduced charge such as reckless driving or negligent driving stemming from a DUI. Washington’s laws become significantly harsher with each additional offense.
When does a DUI become a felony in Washington
A DUI can be charged as a Class B felony if:
You have four or more prior DUI offenses within the last 10 years
You have a prior conviction for vehicular assault or homicide while under the influence
You were driving with a suspended or revoked license related to a DUI
You have a prior felony DUI conviction
Felony DUI charges carry much steeper penalties, including prison time and permanent license revocation.
Can a third DUI result in jail time?
Yes. A third DUI conviction in Washington often leads to 90 to 120 days in jail, along with 120 to 150 days of electronic home monitoring (EHM), increased fines, longer license suspension, and mandatory treatment. It also puts you at risk for felony charges if there is another offense.
Is it possible to avoid jail time for a repeat DUI offense?
In some cases, yes. Depending on the circumstances, your attorney may negotiate for alternative sentencing, such as electronic home monitoring, work release, treatment-based programs, or deferred prosecution. However, repeat offenses often include mandatory minimum jail terms, so early legal intervention is critical.
Do I need a lawyer if this isn’t my first DUI?
Absolutely. Repeat or felony DUI charges are complex and carry serious consequences. Without skilled legal representation, you risk extended jail time, long-term license loss, and a felony record. The Law Office of Adin Johnson will help protect your rights and your future with experienced, focused DUI defense.