What alternatives to jail time are available for a DWI conviction?

In Washington, people convicted of DWI may be able to receive an alternative sentence to jail time. Common alternatives to jail time include community service, an ignition interlock device (IID) with an alcohol evaluation, or educational courses. Community service is a sentence that requires an offender to perform unpaid work in their local community, such as cleaning up graffiti or helping out in homeless shelters. An offender typically has to complete a certain number of hours of community service to meet the sentence, which is determined by the court. An IID is an in-car breathalyzer that measures the BAC of the driver as they attempt to start the car. The device requires the driver to blow into it before they can start the car, and if their BAC is over a certain limit, the car will not start. An offender would have to install and maintain the IID for a certain amount of time, depending on their sentence. Offenders convicted of DWI may also be required to attend alcohol education classes or other educational courses. These classes can help the offender understand the risks associated with drinking and driving and teach them healthier lifestyles. In Washington, DWI convictions can be serious and may result in jail time. However, people convicted of DWI may be able to receive an alternative sentence to jail time, such as community service, an IID, or educational courses.

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