Below is a like the a "Letter to the Editor" written by a Bellevue, WA resident and published in the Bellevue Reporter. This is an example of the public perception that can be attached to you if you are charged with a DUI or DWI.

The Letter to the Editor written by Mr. Brickman says "We are too soft on those who kill someone due to uncontrolled use of the weapon of choice. A vehicle is just as dangerous of a weapon as anything else. It may not be premeditated murder, but it is just as deadly."

The problem is that the vast majority of people charged with  DUI's and DWI's are responsible social drinkers who may have made a poor choice on one given night. They are not murderers or killers on our roads. The State of Washington has some of the toughest DUI and DWI penalties in the nation. These penalties are put in place by voters, who like Mr. Brickman, have a zero tolerance policy toward DUI's and DWI'.

If you are a responsible social drinker that is charged with DUI or DWI you could very likely find a citizen like Mr. Brickman on your jury. They may not care that you are a responsible social drinker or what the situation was. You may be judged by a jury like you are a potential killer with little respect for human like, as opposed to a social drinker who maybe had one too many drinks on one specific night.

If you have been charged with a DUI or DWI it is important to know your rights and weigh your options.  Feel free to contact me at (425) 830-7520 for a free consultation to talk more about your rights and options.

http://www.bellevuereporter.com/opinion/letters/266951931.html