Receiving a late-night phone call that a family member has been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) and booked into SCORE Jail can be frightening and confusing. You may not know where they are, whether they can be released, or what happens next.
The good news is that there are practical steps you can take to help your loved one while protecting their legal rights. Knowing what to expect after a DUI Arrest at SCORE Jail can reduce stress and help your family make informed decisions during a difficult time.
Confirm They Are Being Held at SCORE Jail
Before taking any other action, verify that your family member is actually being held at the South Correctional Entity (SCORE) Jail in Des Moines, Washington. SCORE houses inmates for numerous South King County cities, including Auburn, Burien, Des Moines, Federal Way, Renton, SeaTac, Tukwila, and several other jurisdictions.
If they were arrested by one of these agencies, there is a good chance they were booked into SCORE.
Once you confirm their location, you can determine:
- Their booking status
- The charges
- Whether they have been released
- Their scheduled court appearance
Understand That DUI Cases Are Different
Many people expect someone arrested for DUI to be released immediately after booking. That is not always the case.
Washington law allows officers to hold individuals arrested for DUI until certain release requirements are satisfied. Depending on the circumstances, the person may:
- Be released after the mandatory hold period ends
- Be required to appear before a judge
- Be released with conditions
- Remain in custody if bail is set
Every case is different, particularly if the arrest involved:
- A high breath or blood alcohol concentration
- A collision
- Injuries
- Prior DUI convictions
- Refusal of a breath test
- Additional criminal charges
Avoid Discussing the Case by Telephone
Families naturally want to know what happened.
However, it is important to remember that most jail telephone calls are recorded.
Avoid asking questions such as:
- “How much had you been drinking?”
- “Why didn’t you pull over?”
- “Were you actually driving?”
Instead, focus on practical matters like:
- Medical needs
- Arranging transportation after release
- Obtaining medications if appropriate
- Contacting an attorney
Detailed discussions about the facts of the case should occur privately with defense counsel.
Help Prepare for Release
If your loved one is released from SCORE Jail, they may need assistance with:
- Transportation home
- Retrieving personal property
- Getting back to work
- Childcare
- Medical appointments
- Scheduling legal consultations
Having reliable family support can make the transition much easier.
Encourage Them to Contact a DUI Defense Attorney Immediately
The hours following a DUI arrest are important.
An attorney can begin reviewing:
- Police reports
- Body camera footage
- Field sobriety testing
- Breath test procedures
- Blood draw warrants
- Constitutional issues surrounding the stop and arrest
Early legal intervention may also help preserve evidence before it becomes unavailable.
Remember the Department of Licensing Deadline
Many DUI arrests trigger separate proceedings involving the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL).
Depending on the circumstances of the arrest, important deadlines may apply regarding the person’s driving privileges. Missing these deadlines can affect their ability to legally drive.
An experienced DUI attorney can explain how the criminal case and any licensing issues interact.
Attend Court Dates
Missing a scheduled court appearance can create additional legal problems, including warrants and additional charges.
Help your loved one:
- Keep track of court dates
- Arrive early
- Dress appropriately
- Bring required paperwork
- Stay in communication with their attorney
Emotional Support Matters
A DUI arrest can be one of the most stressful experiences a person faces.
Families often experience fear, embarrassment, frustration, and uncertainty.
Providing calm, practical support often helps far more than assigning blame. Encourage your loved one to take the legal process seriously while working closely with qualified legal counsel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bail someone out of SCORE Jail after a DUI arrest?
It depends. Some individuals may be released after a mandatory holding period, while others may have bail set by the court or be released on conditions. The circumstances of the arrest will determine the process.
Can I bring them medication?
SCORE Jail has specific procedures regarding prescription medications. Contact the facility directly before attempting to deliver medications.
Should I talk to the police for them?
Generally, no. Your loved one has the right to consult with an attorney before making statements. Family members should avoid speaking to investigators on behalf of the arrested person unless advised by legal counsel.
Will they lose their driver’s license?
Possibly. A DUI arrest can involve both criminal court proceedings and administrative licensing consequences. Prompt legal advice is important to understand the available options.
Contact Blanford Law
If your family member has been arrested for DUI and booked into SCORE Jail, obtaining experienced legal representation as soon as possible can make a significant difference. Early action can help protect important legal rights and prepare for the court process ahead.
Contact Blanford Law today at ken@blanfordlaw.com or 253-720-9304 for guidance on your legal matter.
Additional Resources
How Do I Look Someone Up in the SCORE Jail?
If your loved one has been booked into SCORE Jail, this guide explains how to locate an inmate, understand the booking process, and find important contact information.
https://blanfordlaw.com/how-do-i-look-someone-up-in-the-score-county-jail-where-are-they-how-do-i-find-them-what-is-the-score-jail/
Understanding Washington Offender Scores
Washington’s offender score system can significantly impact sentencing, especially in felony DUI and repeat-offense cases. This article explains how prior convictions may affect the outcome of a criminal case.
https://blanfordlaw.com/offender-score-washington-wysgoll/
State v. Drake (Washington)
Explore an important Washington appellate court decision addressing criminal procedure and defendants’ rights, and learn how court rulings can influence the handling of criminal cases.
https://blanfordlaw.com/state-v-drake-washington/
Passenger Dies in I-90 Crash
Read about a serious Washington crash investigation and how incidents involving fatalities can lead to complex felony prosecutions, including vehicular homicide or felony DUI charges.
https://blanfordlaw.com/passenger-dies-i-90-crash/