What court handles DUI cases in Bellevue?
Bellevue does not have its own municipal court. All Bellevue DUI cases are heard at the King County District Court, East Division, Bellevue Facility, located at 1309 114th Avenue SE in Bellefield Office Park.
Where do I park at the Bellevue courthouse?
Parking is available right outside the front door of the courthouse in the Bellefield Office Park lot. The courthouse is accessible from both I-90 and I-405 off Southeast 36th Street.
What time does the Bellevue courthouse open?
The courthouse opens at 8:30 a.m., Monday through Friday. Court calendars typically begin at 8:45 a.m., though arraignment sessions may not get underway until 9:00 or 9:15 while paperwork is processed. The court provides a “Rights at Arraignment” form that must be filed at the time of arraignment. Counsel typically will review the form with a client a few days prior to the arraignment, and file the form with the court early.
What should I wear to Bellevue courthouse?
Business casual is appropriate. The court understands that many people come directly from work, and clean work clothes are perfectly acceptable. There is no need to purchase new clothing for a court appearance.
Do I have to appear in person for a DUI arraignment in Bellevue?
Yes. DUI arraignments at the King County District Court Bellevue facility require the defendant to appear in person. An attorney cannot appear on your behalf for this hearing. Later pretrial hearings can typically be handled by Zoom.
Who prosecutes DUI cases in Bellevue?
If you were arrested by Bellevue Police, your case is prosecuted by the Bellevue City Attorney's Office. If you were arrested in Bellevue by Washington State Patrol or the King County Sheriff's Office, the King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office handles the case instead.
How long after my arrest will I be arraigned?
The timeline from arrest to arraignment in Bellevue typically ranges from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the City Attorney's caseload. The prosecutor has up to two years to file charges, though most DUI cases are filed much sooner.
Where is the breath test administered after a Bellevue DUI arrest?
Breath testing for use in prosecuting the DUI charge is conducted at the Bellevue Police Department inside City Hall, not at the roadside. After a traffic stop, suspects are transported to the station for testing on the Drager Alcotest instrument following a mandatory observation period.
Can my lawyer appear without me at pretrial hearings?
For pretrial hearings and status conferences, yes. Defense attorneys can appear by Zoom on your behalf for most hearings after the arraignment. Testimonial motions, trial dates, guilty pleas, and sentencing require in-person attendance.
How long do I have to request a DOL hearing after a Bellevue DUI arrest?
Seven days from the date of arrest where a breath test was completed or the test was refused. This deadline applies statewide and is separate from the criminal case. Missing it means forfeiting the right to challenge the administrative suspension of your driver's license.
