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Alcohol and drugs impair many of the functions that are necessary to drive safely. As a result, many states—including Washington—have very strict laws regarding driving under the influence (DUI).  Drivers who get behind the wheel while drunk or high could face serious penalties, including fines, jail time, and administrative penalties. These DUI penalties can…

Regardless of where inmates are housed or what types of crimes they may have committed, people who are incarcerated are entitled to basic protections under the United States Constitution. If you are incarcerated in Washington state, you have the right to safety, humane conditions, and medical care, among other protections. If a facility or…

A police officer pulls you over and examines your license and registration. Then, the officer asks if he or she could look around your vehicle. In these situations, you may wonder what to do next. Do you consent for the officer to search your vehicle? This is an unfortunately common scenario for many Washington…

According to the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, each and every person who is facing criminal charges has the right to legal counsel. This protection is so important that the state will provide a court-appointed attorney if the defendant is unable to afford one. If you are facing criminal charges, you need an…

Bulletproof vests and other types of body armor can help protect you against gunfire and light shrapnel from explosive devices. Many people choose to purchase bulletproof vests as personal safety devices, but some states do have laws that regulate their sales. In Washington, most people can purchase and use a bulletproof vest. However, those…

After an arrest in Washington, several processes will occur. Once a person is booked, the first courtroom-based proceeding that he or she will attend is arraignment. During this hearing, the judge will read the charges against the defendant and ask him or her to enter a plea. The arraignment process can be confusing, especially…