James Eric Gaston

Unfortunately, in 2012 I was irresponsibly driving after drinking alcohol and got in a moderately serious accident with another vehicle- and I was at fault. After being taken to the Hospital the Police took blood and I was released. I immediately began searching for attorneys and likely called 20 a...nd met 10, all referrals from other attorneys or legal friends- Eric was one. Since I had not been charged I simply waited, as I didn't now what we would be dealing with. 13 months later, yes 13, I received a letter charging me with Vehicular Assault, a felony. Sadly, a person in the other car I was in the accident with broke her finger, triggering the felony; and my BAC was high. Having a prior Reckless Driving charge x years earlier that was alcohol related (failed a field sobriety test, no BAC test, reduced from DUI), I was looking at 6-9 months in jail minimum and a felony conviction. As a corporate executive who also travels internationally- this would have ended my career. Even if this was reduced a DUI was going to cause me serious consequences. So I was in a very emotionally distraught state- and Eric was always able to talk be down off the ledge. I decided to hire Eric after meeting he and his partners; he is compassionate, smart, works very hard, knows the law, knows the system, knows the courts, knows prosecutors, knows judges, and most importantly- trust me on this- he focuses on the legal agreement and supporting that first rather than trying to negotiate or plea and pray. We did not go to trial for another year and two months; and in the mean time Eric was always available to talk, meet, respond to emails and texts-- and trust me I had some very bad days during this two year period. His commitment is supreme- to you, the law, and the defense. Now, on the legal side Eric was masterful in getting evidence suppressed due to the fact that my constitutional rights were violated, using a supreme court ruling-- this is VERY difficult in a blood draw and was very high drama. His legal skill and preparation was exceptional, and this allowed us to get the felony reduced to a DUI in a plea. We pondered going to trial on the felony-- but the plea outweighed the felony conviction as Eric negotiated a solid outcome. He advised and assisted me, along with his staff, on all of actions one must deal with in a DUI-- assessments, licensing, treatment, classes, court hearings and locations, paperwork, fines, the works. This should be a very important part of your thought process. I have subsequently been in a program of recovery that puts me in contact with hundreds who have dealt with DUIs-- and a common topic are attorneys and the legal issues. Most thought using their wallets instead of the recommendations of professionals; and most received more consequences than I for far less serious situations. Nothing is guaranteed in legal cases; but do not think with your wallet-- and I can guarantee Eric will put you on the best footing possible for your defense, be there for you, and be solid as a rock-- he is "good people".

Almost a year ago I got pulled over for driving under the influence in downtown Seattle. I did a lot of research on attorney's specializing in this area of law, narrowed down the field to 5 and met with each in turn. Every single attorney I interviewed informed me that DUIs in Seattle over the past 1...-2 years have become increasingly more difficult to beat. There have been some very nasty, high profile DUI related accidents recently. I decided to have Eric represent me and I'm very glad that I did. Eric is knowledgeable, well spoken and kept me informed throughout the lengthy process. He is extremely effective in court and was able to answer all my questions. Ultimately, my charges were reduced to reckless driving with minimum sentencing. I have no hesitation in recommending Eric.

I had the unfortunate circumstance of being arrested for a DUI in an area very well known for aggressive prosecution, and right in the middle of a complicated immigration case as well that it would significantly impact. Mr. Gaston did an absolutely *outstanding* job. I was amazed at the level and de...pth of his dedication and detail into representing me. He left no stone unturned in researching every possible facet of my case, from the basics of DUI law, right through to laws affecting immigrants and also any medical implications. His depth of knowledge and generosity with his time were also outstanding. Quite possibly without Mr. Gaston's extremely hard work, talented representation and his dedication, my life would quite possibly have taken a very different turn, very unpleasant turn but thanks to Mr. Gaston's exceptional work we arrived at a favorable settlement with the prosecution. Many attorney's have a reputation for charging excessively with their time, but certainly not the case with Mr. Gaston, even months after the case is closed he has been able to assist with further questions and when I needed more information. I would highly recommend Mr. Gaston, and despite whatever outcome I would say any individual has the best possible chance with him defending them.

Eric Gaston is awesome DUI Defense Attorney he beat my DOL hearing and had me in and out of court in less then five minutes.I am very happy I found him. He is very effective as well as informative always returns my phone calls immediately.I absolutely would recommend The Cowan Smith Kirk Gaston Law F...irm