Lynnwood Negligent Driving Criminal Defense Attorney

Negligent Driving Of A Motor Vehicle in Lynnwood, Washington

Sometimes when an officer pulls someone over for suspicion of DUI the officer does not get enough evidence to charge DUI.  There are many reasons for this, including a low breath test result, problems with the breath test machine, or the officer being called to another urgent matter.  In these circumstances, the officer will often charge a lesser crime know as Negligent Driving First Degree.  Commonly known as "Neg 1", Washington law defines Negligent Driving First Degree as:

"A person is guilty of negligent driving in the first degree if he or she operates a motor vehicle in a manner that is both negligent and endangers or is likely to endanger any person or property, and exhibits the effects of having consumed liquor or an illegal drug." RCW 46.61.5249

It does not take much for the officer to show negligence in these matters.  Basically any violation of a rule of the road, such as speeding, swerving, or failing to signal can be enough.  The officer also needs to how that you had recently consumed alcohol or an illegal drug.

The good news s that this is a lesser charge than DUI and does not include mandatory suspension of your driver's license.  The bad news is that this is still a serious criminal offense and is often punished by jail time, fines, and alcohol treatment.  In some cases the prosecutor will even overrule the police officer and amend the charge up to a full DUI.  For this reason, it is imperative that any Negligent Driving First Degree offense be dealt with immediately by consulting a Lynnwood criminal defense attorney. Negligent Driving - First Degree is a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment up to 90 days and a fine of up to $1,000 or both.

Dealing With Negligent Driving - First Degree Charges

I have over a decade of experience dealing with Negligent Driving First Degree charges. These can be scary, particularly if it's not a first time offense. As a criminal defense lawyer with a background as a prosecutor for the City of Lynnwood, I can assure you that getting my office involved at the onset can only help you get through this stressful situation. I will use my resources and skills to work to get you the most favorable outcome possible. 

Have you been charged with Negligent Driving - First Degree? Contact a criminal defense attorney for a free consultation and evaluation of your case.