What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Post Falls, Idaho? A Complete Guide from a DUI Lawyer
Arrested for DUI in Post Falls or Kootenai County? Learn Idaho DUI penalties, the court process, and how a local DUI lawyer at Valiant Law defends your future with proven results.
Arrested for DUI in Kootenai County? Here’s What You Need to Know
A DUI arrest in Kootenai County — whether in Post Falls, Coeur d’Alene, Hayden, or Rathdrum — is stressful and overwhelming. You may be worried about jail time, losing your license, or how this will affect your future.
📞 Call Valiant Law — (208) 667-5437
But here’s what’s important: being arrested does not mean you will be convicted. With the right defense strategy and a lawyer who knows the Kootenai County courts inside and out, you can protect your license, your record, and your future.
At Valiant Law, we provide aggressive DUI defense with flat fees, payment plans, and proven results across Kootenai County — with a special focus on Post Falls DUI cases.
What Happens During a DUI Arrest in Post Falls?
The DUI arrest process in Post Falls or anywhere in Kootenai County follows several legal steps that can affect the outcome of your case.
Initial Traffic Stop and Field Testing
Police must have reasonable suspicion to stop your vehicle. Once pulled over, they may ask you to perform field sobriety tests or provide a breath sample.
Under Idaho Code § 18-8004, DUI charges may be filed if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is:
0.08% or higher for drivers 21+
0.02% or higher for drivers under 21
0.04% or higher for commercial drivers
👉 Even below these thresholds, you can still be arrested if officers believe alcohol or drugs impaired your ability to drive.
Chemical Testing and Implied Consent
Idaho’s implied consent law means you have already agreed to chemical testing by driving in the state. Refusing the test results in:
1-year automatic license suspension
$250 civil penalty
Ignition interlock device after reinstatement
Booking and Release
After arrest, you’ll be processed at the Kootenai County Jail. Release may be on your own recognizance, bail, or third-party custody.
📞 Call Valiant Law — (208) 667-5437
DUI Penalties in Idaho
Penalties depend on BAC, prior history, and case facts.
First Offense DUI (Misdemeanor)
Jail: Up to 6 months (often reduced with negotiation)
Fine: Up to $1,000 plus court costs
License suspension: 90–180 days (restricted possible after 30 days)
Probation: 12–24 months
Mandatory alcohol evaluation
Excessive DUI (BAC 0.20%+):
At least 10 days in jail
Fines up to $2,000
year absolute license suspension
Second Offense DUI (within 10 years)
10 days to 1 year in jail
Fines up to $2,000
Minimum 1-year suspension
Ignition interlock device required
Felony DUI
Third offense or DUI with injury
Up to 10 years in prison
Fines up to $5,000
License revoked 1–5 years
Permanent felony record
Why You Need a DUI Lawyer in Kootenai County
Local Court Knowledge
All DUI cases are handled at:
📍 Kootenai County Courthouse
324 W. Garden Avenue, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814
We know the judges, prosecutors, and courtroom procedures in Post Falls and across Kootenai County. That local experience is a powerful advantage.
Defense Strategies
We carefully review your case for:
Whether the stop was lawful
Errors in field sobriety testing
BAC machine calibration and operator certification
Medical conditions that mimic impairment
Rising BAC arguments
License Protection
You have 7 days from your arrest to request a hearing to protect your license. Miss the deadline, and suspension is automatic — even if you win in court.
Long-Term Impact
A DUI conviction can affect:
Professional licenses
Employment requiring background checks
Insurance premiums
College or financial aid eligibility
📞 Call Valiant Law — (208) 667-5437
The DUI Court Process in Kootenai County
Administrative Hearing
Must be requested within 7 days
Separate from the criminal case
Focuses only on license suspension
Criminal Court Proceedings
Arraignment: Charges read, plea entered.
Pretrial: Motions, discovery, negotiations (often where dismissals or reductions happen).
Trial: Bench or jury trial if no resolution is reached.
👉 Learn more about Pretrial Hearings in Kootenai County.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a DUI stay on my record?
A DUI conviction is permanent. For sentencing, Idaho considers prior offenses within 10 years.
Can I get a payment plan?
Yes. At Valiant Law, we offer flat fees with payment plans — no surprise hourly bills.
What if I miss my court date?
A bench warrant is issued immediately. Call an attorney right away. See: Missed Court Date in Idaho.
Should I refuse field sobriety tests?
You may refuse them, but refusal often leads to arrest. Chemical test refusal carries automatic penalties.
Is hiring a Post Falls DUI lawyer worth it?
Yes. Local experience in Kootenai County courts provides an edge. Read: First DUI in Coeur d’Alene — Is My Life Over?
Take Action Now
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Post Falls or anywhere in Kootenai County, time matters. Evidence can be challenged and options can be negotiated, but only if you act quickly.
At Valiant Law, we provide:
Flat fees and flexible payment plans
Immediate responsiveness
Local knowledge of Kootenai County courts
A track record of dismissals and reductions
Personal attention from a lawyer who limits caseloads
About Valiant Law
Valiant Law defends DUI and criminal cases across Kootenai County, serving clients in Post Falls, Coeur d’Alene, Hayden, and Rathdrum. We combine deep knowledge of Idaho DUI law with proven strategies and client-focused defense.