Protect Your Future with Ciccarelli Law Offices – Your Top DUI Defense Attorneys in Broomall, PA

If you’re facing DUI charges, the stakes couldn’t be higher—for your reputation, finances, and, most importantly, your future. At Ciccarelli Law Offices, we understand the profound impact a DUI arrest can have on your life. Our team of experienced DUI defense attorneys, led by Lee Ciccarelli, is here to provide the guidance and relentless advocacy you need. Located right in Broomall, PA, we are committed to helping you fight for the best possible outcome.

Below, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about Pennsylvania’s DUI laws and penalties, why hiring an experienced attorney is crucial, and why Lee Ciccarelli and his team are the right choice to defend your case.

Understanding DUI Charges in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s DUI Statute

Driving under the influence (DUI) in Pennsylvania is governed by Title 75, Section 3802 of Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. Under this law, it is illegal for any individual to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or greater for general drivers, 0.04% for commercial drivers, or 0.02% for drivers under the age of 21.

The statute also addresses DUI related to drugs, meaning any amount of a controlled substance in your system can lead to impairment charges.

Types of DUI Charges

There are several categories of DUI charges in Pennsylvania, determined by the level of impairment, previous offenses, and surrounding circumstances. These include:

• General Impairment: BAC between 0.08% and 0.099%.
• High BAC: BAC between 0.10% and 0.159%.
• Highest BAC: BAC 0.16% or higher, or DUI involving controlled substances.
• Underage DUI: Drivers under 21 with a BAC of 0.02% or higher.
• Commercial Vehicle DUI: BAC of 0.04% or higher while operating a commercial vehicle.
• Drug-Related DUI: Impairment caused by drugs, including prescription medications.

Pennsylvania’s Implied Consent Law

When you obtain a driver’s license in Pennsylvania, you agree to abide by the state’s implied consent law. This law requires you to submit to chemical testing (breath, blood, or urine) if you are lawfully arrested on suspicion of DUI. Refusing this test can result in the following penalties, even if you are not convicted of DUI:

• Automatic license suspension of 12 to 18 months.
• Fines & penalties separate from any DUI charges.

Penalties for DUI Convictions in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania employs a tiered penalty system for DUI offenses that factors in your BAC level and whether it’s your first offense. Here is a breakdown of the criminal penalties and mandatory minimum sentences for DUI convictions:

1st Offense (General Impairment):

• Up to 6 months probation
• $300 fine
• Alcohol highway safety school
• Treatment, if ordered

2nd Offense (High BAC):

• 5 days to 6 months imprisonment
• Fines between $300 and $2,500
• License suspension of 12 months
• Alcohol highway safety school

3rd Offense (Highest BAC):

• 1 to 5 years imprisonment
• Fines between $2,500 and $10,000
• 18-month license suspension
• Installation of an ignition interlock device

Note that penalties increase significantly with aggravating factors such as DUI accidents, injuries, or vehicular manslaughter.

Pennsylvania’s ARD Program for First-Time Offenders

The Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program offers first-time DUI offenders the chance to avoid a criminal conviction. Governed by Title 75, Section 3807, ARD allows qualifying individuals to complete rehabilitative requirements, including community service and alcohol education, to have their charges dismissed.

Eligibility for ARD

Eligibility for ARD is determined at the county level, where the local District Attorney sets the guidelines. Common eligibility criteria include:

• No prior DUI offenses in the last 10 years.
• No involvement in accidents causing serious injury or death.
• BAC must not exceed 0.30%.
• No passengers younger than 14 at the time of arrest.

Delaware County ARD Guidelines

The District Attorney’s Office of Delaware County, where Broomall is located, evaluates each ARD application on a case-by-case basis. Individuals accepted into ARD can significantly reduce the impact of a DUI, including the possibility of record expungement upon completion.

The Impact of a DUI Conviction on Your Driver’s License

A DUI conviction has severe repercussions for your Pennsylvania driver’s license. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) enforces the following suspensions based on DUI type and prior offenses:

• 1st Offense (General Impairment): No suspension.
• 1st Offense (High BAC): 12-month suspension.
• Refusal to Submit to Testing: 12 to 18-month suspension.

Reinstating your license may require fines, participation in driving courses, and obtaining an ignition interlock device.

What Police Officers Look For Before Making a DUI Arrest

Under Pennsylvania law, police officers must have reasonable suspicion to stop your vehicle and probable cause to arrest you for DUI. Typical observations include:

• Erratic driving (weaving, speeding, stopping abruptly).
• Slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, or the odor of alcohol.
• Failed field sobriety tests, such as walking in a straight line.

To secure a conviction, the officer also needs results from breathalyzer or chemical tests and must demonstrate that the arrest was made lawfully.

Why You Need an Experienced DUI Attorney

Navigating Pennsylvania’s DUI laws without an experienced attorney is incredibly risky. An attorney can:

• Challenge the legality of your stop or arrest.
• Question the accuracy of breathalyzer or chemical tests.
• Negotiate with the District Attorney for reduced charges or ARD.
• Advocate on your behalf in court to fight for a favorable verdict.

Your future is too important to leave in inexperienced hands.

Why Choose Lee Ciccarelli and Ciccarelli Law Offices

Who is Lee Ciccarelli?

Lee Ciccarelli is an accomplished criminal defense attorney with a stellar reputation in Broomall, PA, and beyond. A native Pennsylvanian and passionate advocate for justice, Lee built his practice on the values of integrity, dedication, and results.

Our Commitment to You

At Ciccarelli Law Offices, we take a client-first approach, providing personalized attention and a solid defense strategy tailored to your unique case. Our team of attorneys understands the nuances of DUI cases in Delaware County, particularly how to leverage local court procedures and prosecutorial discretion in your favor.

Proven Track Record

We have successfully helped thousands of clients avoid DUI convictions, secure participation in ARD programs, and reduce license suspensions. Our results speak volumes about our expertise and dedication.

Contact Ciccarelli Law Offices Today

If you or a loved one are facing DUI charges in Broomall, PA, don’t wait. Your defense begins now. Call Ciccarelli Law Offices at [Insert Contact Number] or fill out our online consultation form to schedule a free case evaluation.

Put your trust in Lee Ciccarelli and his team. We’re here to fight for you, your freedom, and your future.