Blog

Alcohol related driving offenses: Negligent Driving in the First Degree

john@jlutgenslaw.com (John J. Lutgens Attorney at Law) — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 21:24:11 +0000

It is a common misconception that driving a vehicle while one's blood alcohol level is below 0.08 ng/ml is not illegal. However, if the operation of the vehicle is determined to be both negligent and endangers person or property one can be cited for Negligent Driving in the First Degree with a blood alcohol level under the legal limit of 0.08 ng/ml. Under Washington law a person can be cited for 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.

Washington State Ignition Interlock License (IIL)

john@jlutgenslaw.com (John J. Lutgens Attorney at Law) — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 21:19:38 +0000

On January 1, 2009, the Washington State Dept. of Licensing created the Ignition Interlock License. This license allows individuals whose license has been suspended or revoked for an alcohol related driving offense to continue driving provided their vehicle is equipped with an ignition interlock device.

The ignition interlock equipment will prevent your vehicle from starting if the equipment detects any alcohol on your breath. Additionally the equipment will require testing samples while the vehicle is being driven.

Am I Eligibile for an Ignition Interlock License?

Domestic Violence in Washington

john@jlutgenslaw.com (John J. Lutgens Attorney at Law) — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 21:16:44 +0000

Under Washington laws Domestic Violence is defined by RCW 10.99.020. The laws of Washington describe domestic violence as a crime committed by one family or household member against another family or household member. Domestic violence can also occur between individuals that are involved in a dating relationship.

In addition to spouses, people that have children together or are related by blood or marriage, family or household members can include adults currently or formerly living together. In parent-child relationships natural parents, step-parents, step-children, grandparents, grandchildren are included within the definition.

General Info on DUI Defense

john@jlutgenslaw.com (John J. Lutgens Attorney at Law) — Sat, 11 Jun 2011 00:57:13 +0000

The consequences of a DUI /DWI conviction can have profound impact including mandatory jail time, suspension or revocation of your privilege to drive, mandated substance abuse evaluation and treatment, significant fines and high risk insurance premiums. In many instances the consequences of a DUI/DWI conviction can be as great or greater than a felony conviction.

General Info on Criminal Defense

john@jlutgenslaw.com (John J. Lutgens Attorney at Law) — Sat, 11 Jun 2011 00:57:13 +0000

Whether you are charged with a felony, gross misdemeanor or misdemeanor offense the impact of criminal charge on one's life can have devastating effects. It is at this time that you need to have an experienced criminal defense attorney in your corner. John Lutgens has been practicing criminal defense law in Southwest Washington and the Portland Metropolitan area since 1992.

General Info on Bankruptcy

john@jlutgenslaw.com (John J. Lutgens Attorney at Law) — Sat, 11 Jun 2011 04:52:11 +0000

When facing financial difficulties the consideration of filing for bankruptcy protection is a difficult and often times emotional decision. With the current economic conditions many people are finding themselves unable to meet the financial obligations they were once able to meet. Understanding that sometimes good people find themselves in overwhelming financial problems the Law Office of John J. Lutgens, is here to help you in determining whether bankruptcy is a viable option. We will provide you with the guidance necessary to allow you to make the right choice for your specific situation.

What is a Chapter 7 bankruptcy?