If you are stopped at a DUI checkpoint or DUI patrol in Pierce County, it’s important to understand your rights — especially when facing municipal court charges in cities like Tacoma, Puyallup, Lakewood, or University Place. While Washington State does not allow random DUI checkpoints, law enforcement agencies across Pierce County conduct aggressive DUI patrols.
At Blanford Law, we help drivers fight DUI charges and protect their futures throughout Pierce County municipal and district courts.
Are DUI Checkpoints Legal in Pierce County?
DUI checkpoints are not permitted in Washington State, including Pierce County.
In the case of Seattle v. Mesiani, the Washington Supreme Court ruled that DUI roadblocks violate state constitutional privacy rights. This decision prohibits police from setting up random DUI checkpoints anywhere in Washington, including in Tacoma or other Pierce County cities.
Officers must have individualized suspicion or probable cause to pull you over. Random stops without cause remain illegal.
🔗 Learn more about DUI checkpoint law in Washington.
How DUI Enforcement Works in Pierce County
Even without checkpoints, DUI enforcement remains a high priority in Pierce County. Law enforcement agencies like Tacoma Police, Puyallup Police, Lakewood Police, and Pierce County Sheriff’s Office often conduct DUI patrols—especially during holidays or big events.
Officers focus on signs of impaired driving, including:
- Swerving or erratic lane changes
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Running stop signs or red lights
- Obvious signs of intoxication (slurred speech, glassy eyes)
If an officer observes suspicious behavior, they can initiate a traffic stop and investigate further.
Your Rights During a DUI Traffic Stop in Pierce County
If you are pulled over during a DUI patrol in Pierce County, remember:
- You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about drinking, activities, or destinations.
- You may refuse field sobriety tests. These roadside tests are voluntary.
- You are subject to the Implied Consent Law. Refusing a post-arrest breath test can lead to license suspension and harsher penalties.
Knowing your rights can make a major difference when facing DUI charges in a Pierce County municipal court.
DUI Charges in Pierce County Municipal Courts
DUI cases in Pierce County are often heard in municipal courts for city-level arrests, including:
- Tacoma Municipal Court
- Puyallup Municipal Court
- Lakewood Municipal Court
- University Place Municipal Court
- Fircrest Municipal Court
- Bonney Lake Municipal Court
Other cases are handled in Pierce County District Court.
Penalties for DUI convictions are severe, including mandatory jail time, fines, ignition interlock device requirements, probation, and loss of driving privileges.
How Blanford Law Defends DUI Cases in Pierce County
At Blanford Law, we defend drivers across Pierce County by:
- Challenging the legality of the traffic stop
- Fighting improper BAC tests or breathalyzer procedures
- Negotiating for reduced charges or alternative sentencing
- Preparing strong defenses for municipal and district court cases
We have experience with Pierce County’s prosecutors, judges, and court procedures — and we fight to protect your record, license, and freedom.
Contact Blanford Law for Help with Pierce County DUI Charges
If you are facing a DUI charge in Tacoma, Puyallup, Lakewood, or anywhere in Pierce County, don’t wait. Contact Blanford Law today to discuss your options.
📧 Email: ken@blanfordlaw.com
📞 Call: 253-720-9304
We offer free consultations and aggressive defense tailored to Pierce County municipal court cases.
Additional Resources
Explore these related articles to better understand your rights, Pierce County procedures, and DUI laws in Washington:
🔗 DUI Checkpoints in Washington State: Navigating the Legal Landscape Post-Seattle v. Mesiani
Summary: Learn how the Seattle v. Mesiani case changed the legal status of DUI checkpoints in Washington and what that means for current enforcement.
🔗 How Do I Look Someone Up in the Pierce County Jail?
Summary: A step-by-step guide to locating someone in Pierce County Jail and understanding how jail records and booking systems work.
🔗 21 FAQs About Security at Pierce County Court
Summary: Know what to expect when entering Pierce County courthouses, from security screening procedures to what items are prohibited.