If you follow the news, you have likely heard the story by now. Former Seattle Seahawks tight end Jerramy Stevens was arrested last week for allegedly assaulting his fiance, U.S. women’s national soccer team goalkeeper and Olympic gold medalist Hope Solo. The alleged assault occurred on the eve of the couple’s wedding.

The 33-year-old NFL star is accused of striking Solo during a fight at a party. The fight involved numerous people, including a 32-year-old woman, a 34-year-old man, and 31-year-old Solo. All were reported to have suffered injuries as a result of the melee. Reports indicate that Stevens and Solo were fighting over where they would live after the wedding.

This case may not fare well for Stevens, who has a lengthy criminal record that includes felony assault, reckless driving and DUI. In fact, Stevens has a long history of impaired driving issues. In 2001, he was cited for reckless driving after crashing into a retirement home and fleeing the scene In 2002, he was arrested for DUI and managed to plead down to reckless driving. In 2007, he was convicted of extreme DUI after his blood-alcohol content was measured at twice the legal limit more than two hours after he was pulled over.

This history of DUI may come back to haunt him as he faces charges for assaulting his fiancé. His past criminal record will surely be used against him in court, and may be used to attack his credibility. That’s not to say that Stevens shouldn’t be held responsible for the actions of which he’s accused. It’s not our job to say whether he did or didn’t commit the crime(s) in question, but instances like this do remind us that DUI cases can have lasting consequences, far beyond their immediate repercussions.

In Washington State, a DUI will remain on your record for 7 years. Any subsequent DUIs that you receive may result in more serious consequences and penalties, with the possibility of jail time. Likewise, if you’re accused of other crimes, your past DUI history may come back to haunt you. That’s why it’s so important to aggressively fight any DUI charges made against you.

Have you been charged with a DUI in Washington State? Contact the Seattle DUI lawyers at Wolff Criminal Defense, by visiting our website or calling us at 425-284-2000. We will listen to you and give you a free consultation. Don’t fight the battle alone. Call us today.