If you've been arrested for a DUI in the Washington and Seattle areas, you may already know that you face criminal drunk driving charges.

However, a DUI charge may just be the start of your problems.

That's because many drunk drivers may also be in violation of other laws that are closely related to a DUI. Here's a look at some of these criminal charges:

1. Open Container Laws. Even if you are not drunk, you may be in violation of Washington open container laws for having an open bottle of beer or other liquor with you in the driver seat.
2. Drug Possession. Similar to open container laws, drugged and drunk drivers frequently are arrested for drug possession like having a small amount of marijuana or cocaine in the car. Similar to open container laws, you can be arrested for this crime regardless of whether you are actually drunk.
3. Suspended License. Driving with a suspended license can lead to monetary fines and can also increase the penalties you face for drunk driving. Prosecutors may also be less willing to work on a favorable plea deal with drivers who have a suspended license.
4. No Insurance. You must have valid insurance if you want to drive. Many drunk drivers are caught without proper insurance and face increased penalties and fines.

If you have been arrested for drunk driving, you may face a host of penalties that are unrelated to the underlying DUI charge. These penalties may aggravate the DUI charge or they may simply provide for penalties regardless of whether you are exonerated of the DUI.

A drunk driving arrest is serious and you will want to work with a Seattle DUI defense attorney if you have any questions. Contact the attorneys at Wolff Criminal Defense at 425-284-2000 if you have any questions.