Wayne PA DUI Lawyers

Expert DUI Defense in Wayne, PA with Ciccarelli Law Offices

If you or a loved one in Wayne, PA, face a DUI charge, you may already understand the serious ramifications it can have on your life. A DUI arrest doesn’t just involve fines and court appearances; it threatens your driving privileges, professional reputation, and even your personal freedom. At Ciccarelli Law Offices, our skilled criminal defense attorneys, led by Lee Ciccarelli, are here to defend your rights and make sure you don’t face these challenges alone.

This comprehensive guide will explore Pennsylvania’s DUI laws, penalties, and what makes Ciccarelli Law Offices the best choice to handle your case. From understanding statutes to explaining why prompt legal action is essential, this page guides you through every crucial element of your DUI defense.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s DUI Statutes

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) laws in Pennsylvania are stringent. Under the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code Title 75 § 3802, it’s illegal to drive, operate, or physically control a motor vehicle if you are impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances.

Types of DUI Charges in Pennsylvania

General Impairment DUI (BAC of 0.08%-0.099%)

For drivers 21 years or older, a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) between 0.08% and 0.099% is considered general impairment. However, officers may still charge you at lower BAC levels based on your observable impairment.

High BAC DUI (BAC of 0.10%-0.159%)

Higher BAC levels carry harsher penalties, including increased fines and mandatory jail time.

Highest BAC DUI (BAC of 0.16% and above)

A BAC of 0.16% or higher is classified as “Highest Rate” DUI, leading to the most severe penalties in the state.

Underage DUI

Pennsylvania has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under the age of 21. A BAC as low as 0.02% can lead to a DUI charge.

Drug-Related DUI

Pennsylvania DUI laws encompass impairment caused by illegal drugs, prescription medications, and even over-the-counter drugs, if they impair your driving ability.

Commercial Drivers

CDL holders can face DUI charges with a BAC limit of just 0.04% when operating a commercial vehicle.

Accident-Related DUIs

DUI charges can escalate if your impairment leads to a crash resulting in injury or property damage.

Pennsylvania’s Implied Consent Law

When you drive in Pennsylvania, you’re subject to the state’s Implied Consent Law. This means that if a police officer has reasonable grounds to suspect you are driving under the influence, you must submit to chemical testing, such as a breath, blood, or urine test. Refusing to do so results in automatic license suspension and other penalties, even if you are not ultimately convicted of DUI.

Penalties for refusing to consent include:

First Refusal: A 12-month license suspension.
Subsequent Refusal: An 18-month suspension, plus installation of an ignition interlock device.

Understanding these laws is critical, as refusal doesn’t protect you from a DUI charge; it simply adds more penalties to your case.

DUI Penalties and Mandatory Minimum Sentences in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania employs a tiered penalty structure based on BAC levels and previous convictions. Here’s what you could face for a DUI conviction:

General Impairment DUI Penalties

First Offense

Fine up to $300
No mandatory jail time
Alcohol highway safety school

Second Offense

5 days to 6 months in jail
Fine up to $2,500
12-month license suspension

High BAC DUI Penalties

First Offense

48 hours to 6 months in jail
Fine of $500 to $5,000
12-month license suspension

Second Offense

30 days to 6 months in jail
Fine up to $5,000
12-month license suspension

Highest BAC DUI Penalties

First Offense

72 hours to 6 months in jail
Fine of $1,000 to $5,000
12-month license suspension

Subsequent Offenses

Mandatory jail time increases sharply.
Fines and license suspension periods also increase.

What is the ARD Program in Pennsylvania?

The Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program is a lifeline for many first-time DUI offenders in Pennsylvania. Designed to offer a second chance, this program allows eligible individuals to avoid a criminal conviction, license suspension, and other penalties.

How Does the ARD Program Work?

Entry into ARD is entirely at the discretion of the local District Attorney’s Office.
Once accepted, participants must comply with specific requirements, including probation and community service.
Successful completion leads to expungement, wiping the DUI arrest from your record.

ARD Eligibility Guidelines in Wayne and Delaware County, PA

While eligibility criteria vary by county, most prosecutors reserve ARD for non-violent, first-time offenders. Common conditions include:

No prior criminal record
No passenger under 14 in the vehicle during the DUI
BAC under 0.30%
No involvement in a serious accident

Lee Ciccarelli and his team stay up-to-date on the local Delaware County guidelines for ARD admissions and will work passionately to help you qualify if it’s the best option for your case.

Driver’s License Suspensions

A DUI conviction in Pennsylvania often results in a license suspension:

First Offense (General Impairment DUI): No suspension.
First Offense (High/Highest BAC): 12-month suspension.
Second/Subsequent Offenses or Refusal to Test: Longer suspensions of up to 18 months.

Losing your driving privileges can drastically affect your life, from commuting to work to fulfilling family obligations. Lee Ciccarelli helps clients explore solutions such as applying for an ignition interlock license to minimize disruption.

Why Was I Arrested for DUI?

Understanding the circumstances leading to your arrest can help you build a robust defense. Pennsylvania officers must have:

Reasonable Suspicion: Evidence like erratic driving or traffic violations.
Probable Cause: Indicators of impairment, such as slurred speech, the odor of alcohol, or failing a field sobriety test.

If these criteria were not met, the arrest might be considered unlawful. Our attorneys evaluate every element of your case to uncover procedural errors or violations of your rights.

Why Hiring an Experienced DUI Attorney is Essential

Facing a DUI charge without an attorney is risky. Pennsylvania’s DUI laws are complex, and even a single misstep in the legal process can lead to devastating outcomes. You need someone with in-depth knowledge of local statutes and a proven track record of success.

At Ciccarelli Law Offices, we:

Analyze arrest procedures to identify rights violations.
Challenge evidence like BAC test results.
Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative penalties.
Represent you passionately in court whenever necessary.

Why Choose Lee Ciccarelli and His Team?

Lee’s Background and Commitment

Lee Ciccarelli has over 25 years of experience defending Pennsylvania residents and their futures. Raised in a blue-collar family, Lee understands the importance of hard work, dedication, and fighting until justice is served. His office has built a reputation of trustworthiness and success, handling thousands of DUI cases across Pennsylvania.

A Client-Centered Approach

We offer personalized representation tailored to the unique details of your case. From the moment you contact Ciccarelli Law Offices, you become part of a supportive environment focused on protecting your future.

With a team of skilled attorneys and staff, we fight tirelessly for reduced charges, favorable resolutions, or case dismissals. This isn’t just about avoiding penalties; it’s about minimizing the impact on your career, family, and reputation.

Get Help Today

A DUI charge doesn’t have to define your life. With the experienced DUI attorneys at Ciccarelli Law Offices by your side, you can face these challenges head-on while protecting your rights and future.

Contact our Wayne, PA office today for a free consultation. Call us or visit Ciccarelli.com to schedule your consultation. We’re here to help you take that first step toward a brighter, worry-free future.