Back to Search Results
W. James Kotlowski

W. James Kotlowski

Kotlowski Law Office PLLC
520 East Denny Way
Seattle, WA 98122
Map

Phone: (206) 325-2801  |  Fax: (206) 325-1424
http://www.DUIseattle.com

http://www.DUIwa.com

Contact W. James Kotlowski

Bookmark and Share

Effective DUI Defense, 17 Years of Experience

Legal Topic

Criminal Defense

Preferred New Clients

DUI, Physical Control, BUI, Hit and Run, Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving and Driving Without a License.

Assault, Domestic Violence, No Contact Order, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Drug Possession, Reckless Endangerment, Minor in Possession, All Misdemeanors and some Felonies.

Sub-Topics

Automotive

  • Driving with a Suspended License
  • Driving without a License
  • DUI / DWI
  • Traffic Violations

Criminal Records

  • Expungement or Expunction

Drug Crime

  • Drug Cultivation & Manufacturing
  • Drug Possession
  • Intent to Distribute Drugs
  • Intent to Sell Drugs
  • Medical Marijuana

False Identification

Felonies

Fraud & Financial Crimes

  • Embezzlement

Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transsexual, Transgender (LGBT) Rights

Juvenile Crime

Misdemeanors

Plea Negotiation

Probation

Property Crimes

  • Arson
  • Embezzlement
  • Larceny
  • Shoplifting
  • Theft
  • Trespass
  • Vandalism

Search & Seizure

Sex Crimes

  • Indecent Exposure
  • Prostitution, Solicitation, & Pandering
  • Stalking

Violent Crimes

  • Assault & Battery
  • Domestic Violence

Bar Admissions

WA, Jun 1993
Bar Number: 22712

Other Court Admissions

Supreme Court of Washington, United States District Court, and Western District of Washington.

Association Memberships

King County Bar Association, King County Bar Association Solo Small Firm Section, Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Washington State Bar Association, American Bar Association, and Qlaw (GLBT).

Continuing Education

I attend continuing legal education seminars on cutting edge topics relevant to DUI and Criminal Law to ensure I am up-to-date on the latest Washington State developments that may be helpful to your case.

Papers and Publications

I maintain a DUI and Criminal Traffic Blog on which I post daily writings on Washington State DUI, Criminal and Department of Licensing Issues. I try to address and anticipate questions you may have if you were charged with a DUI or Physical Control in Washington State.

See http://www.duiseattleblog.typepad.com/dui_seattle.

Example Cases

• DUI case in King County District Court, Burien Courthouse with a 0.22 - 0.23 breath test dismissed at Pre-Trial Motions Hearing.
• DUI case in Snohomish County District Court reduced to Negligent Driving 2nd Degree - an infraction.
• 5th DUI case in King County District Court, Redmond Courthouse reduced to Reckless Driving. Client never did any jail time.
• Assault 4th Degree Domestic Violence case in Seattle Municipal Court dismissed at Pre-Trial Hearing.

Education 

School:

Regent University

Degree:

Juris Doctorate

City:

Virginia Beach

State:

VA

Year:

1991

 

School:

McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific

Degree:

LL.M.

City:

Sacramento

State:

CA

Year:

1992

Focus and Accomplishments:

Transnational Business Practice

 

School:

Oral Roberts University

Degree:

Bachelor of Science

City:

Tulsa

State:

OK

Year:

1987

Focus and Accomplishments:

Double Major: Government and Business Administration

Number of Attorneys

1

State Licensed In

Washington

Firm Focus and History

Kotlowski Law Office was established in 1994. At one time or another I have handled a case in practically every practice area. This provides me with a unique perspective and background that is helpful in recognizing other issues that may apply to your DUI or Criminal case. (i.e. employment, insurance issues).

Kotlowski Law Office focuses on defending DU's and Criminal Traffic cases as well as all misdemeanors in all Washington State District and Municipal Courts. Over 98% of our practice is devoted to DUI and Criminal Defense.

Previous Employment Summary

I have always worked for myself.

Activities and Awards

Chair, King County Bar Association, Solo Small Firm Section 2010 to 2011.

What is your opinion regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?

I think it is good for clients to educate themselves on the DUI or Criminal legal process. I try to involve the client in defending their case as much as possible. I find the more the client is involved or understands the process, the more I can effectively represent them.

Are you willing to review documents prepared by clients?

I am always willing to review documents prepared by clients that are relevant and helpful to their cases. You never know what you may find out that is helpful to the client's defense.

Are you willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?

I do not feel this is appropriate in the DUI and Criminal Defense practice areas. If you can afford a lawyer you should hire one that you are comfortable with and are confident in his or her abilities. If you cannot afford a lawyer, a public defender will be appointed for you by the Court. This is not an area where one should represent themselves because too much is at stake.

Why did you decide to be a lawyer?

At 15 years old, I decided to become a lawyer so that I could make a difference and help others. My goal every day is to help the client navigate successfully - with the least amount of stress - what is usually one of the most "traumatic experiences" of their life.

What work experience and education helps you be a better lawyer?

I grew up in a family with six boys. Having five brothers made me realize there are many ways to look at a particular situation or specific set of facts. I have become very effective at seeing the other side's point of view and finding some common ground. This has allowed me to get some great deals or resolutions for my clients while avoiding the obvious risks of trial.

Why did you decide on your primary area of practice?

The main reason I chose this area is that the people I am helping are not the typical "criminal" - they are often professionals and lay people who have never been in trouble before. "Bad things do happen to good people." Some of my clients don't even have a speeding ticket on their driving record. My job is to guide them through the twists and turns of the legal process while mitigating any potential damage to their personal life and career.

What do you like best about your career?

I like DUI and Criminal Defense because you spend many of your days in the Courtroom. There is nothing like standing before a Jury and telling your client's story, especially when the Jury comes back "not guilty."

Tell us about your law firm:

I chose to be a solo practitioner so that I could deal directly with my clients.

What are your strengths and style?

I tend to be pretty stubborn, persistent and determined to get the best possible result for my client, no matter how long it takes. I have had cases last over two years, but I finally got the plea deal I wanted for my client. I am a fairly laid back individual and have been told by many clients that I have a calming influence on them - "that everything is going to be alright." I realize that a lot of my job is to make the client feel comfortable and lift the weight of this predicament off of them.

Personal Interests:

I enjoy world travel (most of my family lives in Australia including my mother), tennis, working-out, the outdoors (hiking, camping and fishing) and politics. I also enjoy a glass of wine or two with my NY Times newspaper or a good book.

Fax

(206) 325-1424

Office Hours

Monday through Friday
8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Evenings and weekends by appointment. For emergency after hours, please call (206) 335-2422

Emergency After Hours

Yes

Fixed-Price Services and Fees

I charge flat fixed fees. The fee varies depending on your DUI and criminal history, if any. I will work with you depending on your financial situation, if necessary. I provide a 10% discount if you mention you found us on Nolo.

Hourly Rates

I charge only fixed flat fees. This fee includes both the Washington State Department of Licensing and Criminal aspects of your DUI case.

Free Initial Consultation?

Yes. I provide a free 90 miniute consultation. I also provide a Free Online Case Evaluation.

Typical Retainer

Typically one-half of the fee upfront. However, this can vary somewhat depending on the client's particular financial situation. Flexible Payment Arrangements are also offered.

Understanding Fees

Nolo's Licensing Check

Attorneys have passed a licensing check. Nolo has confirmed that every member attorney has a valid license and is in good standing with the state agency that licenses lawyers upon joining the directory.

Directory lawyers are required to notify Nolo immediately if they become the subject of any disciplinary action by any state licensing agency.