Driving under the influence (DUI) laws vary from state to state, and it’s important to understand the specific laws in your state to avoid legal troubles. In Pennsylvania, DUI is taken very seriously, and law enforcement is constantly working to curb drunk driving incidents on the road. However, many people wonder whether DUI in Pennsylvania is a felony or misdemeanor offense. In this post, we’ll explore the DUI laws in Pennsylvania and answer this question for you.
In Pennsylvania, the severity of a DUI charge depends on a few factors. One of the most significant factors is the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC). In general, a first-time DUI offender with a BAC of 0.08% to less than 0.10% is charged with a misdemeanor offense. However, for first-time offenders with a BAC of 0.10% or more, Pennsylvania law considers their charge to be a more serious misdemeanor.
For repeat offenders or individuals who have caused injury or property damage while driving under the influence, the charge can escalate to a felony. Specifically, a third or subsequent DUI charge within ten years, or a DUI incident that causes serious bodily injury or death to another person, is considered a felony offense in Pennsylvania. Possible consequences of a felony DUI charge can include years of jail time and a lifetime revocation of a driver’s license.
The consequences of a DUI conviction in Pennsylvania can be severe, even for a misdemeanor offense. For first-time offenders, the penalty might include probation, attending alcohol awareness courses, and paying fines. Repeat offenders could face jail time, community service, and the loss of their driver’s license. It’s worth noting that even a misdemeanor DUI conviction can have long-lasting effects on a person’s life, such as trouble finding employment or even obtaining housing.
One of the best ways to avoid a DUI charge in Pennsylvania is to avoid driving after consuming alcohol altogether. First-time offenders can take advantage of Pennsylvania’s ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition) program, which offers an alternative to traditional court proceedings and can result in a reduced sentence or even a dismissal of charges. Additionally, working with an experienced DUI defense attorney can help you fight against DUI charges, minimizing the impact on your life
In conclusion, understanding the DUI laws in Pennsylvania is crucial to avoiding legal troubles and understanding the severity of a DUI charge. While first-time DUI offenses with a BAC below 0.10% are usually charged as misdemeanors, a BAC of 0.10% or above or causing injury while driving under the influence can lead to more severe misdemeanor charges or even a felony. It’s always best to avoid drunk driving, but if you’re facing DUI charges in Pennsylvania, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced DUI defense attorney to help you fight for your rights.
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.