Getting arrested for a DUI can be a life-changing event. The consequences of a conviction can be severe, including jail time, hefty fines, and a criminal record that can affect your future prospects. If you have been arrested for a DUI in West Chester, PA, your first step should be to retain an experienced and skilled DUI defense lawyer. In this blog, we will discuss some strategies to increase your chances of getting your West Chester PA DUI dropped or dismissed.
- Challenge the Arresting Officer’s Observations
One of the most common defenses against a DUI charge is to challenge the arresting officer’s observations. This includes field sobriety tests, the breathalyzer test, and the officer’s observations of your behavior and appearance. Your DUI attorney may argue that the officer did not have reasonable suspicion to stop your vehicle, or that the breathalyzer was not properly calibrated or administered. If the officer did not conduct the field sobriety test according to standardized procedures, the results may be challenged as well. By casting doubt on the accuracy of the officer’s observations, your attorney may be able to get the charges against you dropped or dismissed.
- Challenge the Evidence Against You
Another strategy to get your West Chester PA DUI dropped or dismissed is to challenge the evidence against you. Your attorney may argue that the evidence was obtained illegally or was mishandled in some way. For example, if the arresting officer did not have a valid warrant to search your vehicle or your person, any evidence obtained through the search may be suppressed. Similarly, if the breathalyzer machine was not calibrated properly or the testing procedures were not followed, the results may be challenged as well. By thoroughly examining the evidence against you, your attorney may be able to get the charges dismissed or reduced.
- Negotiate a Plea Deal
In some cases, it may be difficult to get your West Chester PA DUI dropped or dismissed. However, you may still be able to avoid a conviction and the most severe penalties by negotiating a plea deal. Your attorney may be able to work out a plea agreement with the prosecutor, in which you plead guilty to a lesser offense. The advantage of a plea deal is that you avoid the uncertainty of a trial and the risk of a harsher sentence if convicted. Your attorney will negotiate on your behalf to obtain the best possible plea deal.
- Present Mitigating Circumstances
If you have been arrested for a West Chester PA DUI, presenting mitigating circumstances to the judge can sometimes help your case. For example, if you can show that you had a valid reason for driving under the influence, such as a medical emergency, you may be able to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed. Similarly, if you can demonstrate that you have taken steps to address your alcohol or drug addiction, the judge may be more lenient in sentencing. Your attorney will help you present your case in the best possible light.
- Hire a Skilled DUI Defense Lawyer
Perhaps the most important strategy to increase your chances of getting your West Chester PA DUI dropped or dismissed is to hire a skilled DUI defense lawyer. Your attorney will be familiar with the local courts, judges, and prosecutors and will know how to navigate the legal system on your behalf. By working with a experienced lawyer, you can ensure that your rights are protected throughout the DUI process.
Getting arrested for a West Chester PA DUI can be a traumatic event, but with the right strategies, you can increase your chances of getting the charges against you dropped or dismissed. These strategies include challenging the arresting officer’s observations and the evidence against you, negotiating a plea deal, presenting mitigating circumstances, and working with a skilled DUI defense lawyer. By taking these steps, you can achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
You need more than just one good DUI lawyer. You need the best. You need a team of experienced DUI lawyers fighting for you. Contact Lee Ciccarelli, and his team of West Chester, Pennsylvania DUI lawyers.
Watch out. There’s a lot of former prosecutors boasting about their experience: experience putting people just like you behind bars. Instead, look to Lee Ciccarelli and his team with nearly 100 years of experience fighting for clients facing the penalties of a DUI.
Contact Chester County DUI Defense Attorney
It may be possible to fight your Pennsylvania DUI charge and win, but you’ll never know if you plead guilty without first exploring your options. Ciccarelli Law Offices can review your case to determine whether the local Pennsylvania district attorney’s case has weaknesses that are open to challenge. We will prepare each case as though it is going to trial to insure preparation and thorough understanding and will take the case to trial if you are not satisfied with the resolution that is offered. We strive to be zealous advocates and always try to obtain the best results for our clients.
We are based in West Chester PA (Chester County) in Suburban Philadelphia and represent individuals charged with Drunk Driving, DUI, Driving After Imbibing cases Throughout Pennsylvania including but not limited to Philadelphia, Lancaster, Allentown, Oxford Exton Phoenixville Parkesburg Malvern Coatesville Lionville Chesterbrook Devon Newtown Square Glen Mills Pottstown Downingtown Kennett Square King of Prussia Paoli and beyond.
You deserve a West Chester Pennsylvania DUI lawyer that is available when you need him, treats you with respect, and protects your rights vigorously. For more information or to schedule an appointment with an experienced Pennsylvania DUI Attorney at Ciccarelli Law Offices, by contacting us at (610) 692-8700 or toll free at (877) 529-2422.