What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor charge for a DWI?

In Washington, a Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charge can be either a felony or a misdemeanor. The main difference between the two is the severity of the consequences. A misdemeanor DWI charge is less serious than a felony charge and can result in a fine, jail time, probation, or mandatory alcohol education classes. In contrast, a felony DWI charge often involves more serious consequences. These charges can result in imprisonment of more than a year, a longer probation period, or license suspension for a longer period of time. Additionally, a felony charge will result in a permanent criminal record. When determining the seriousness of a DWI charge, a judge in Washington considers a number of factors including the number of previous DWI convictions, the amount of alcohol consumed, and the age of the driver. A driver with no prior convictions, who only drank one beer, would likely face a misdemeanor DWI charge. However, if the driver had three prior convictions, a high blood alcohol content, and was under 21 years of age, they could face a felony DWI charge. In either case, a driver charged with a DWI in Washington should consult an experienced attorney as soon possible as the consequences of a conviction are serious and can have a long-term impact.

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What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor charge for a DWI?

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