Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can lead to serious legal consequences, particularly if the offender’s blood alcohol level is above the legal limit or if the individual has prior DUI convictions. While most first-time offenders face misdemeanor charges, those involved in serious DUI incidents can face felony DUI charges. In Chester County, PA, the severity of DUI charges depends on a variety of factors, including a driver’s blood alcohol level and criminal record. This blog post provides an overview of felony DUI charges in Chester County and outlines the consequences of these charges.
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In Chester County, a DUI becomes a felony if the offender meets certain criteria. First and foremost, a DUI can become a felony if it causes injury or death to another person. A DUI resulting in injury, commonly referred to as a DUI with injury, is a third-degree felony punishable by up to seven years in prison. If a DUI accident results in death, the offender may be charged with vehicular homicide, which is a second-degree felony punishable by up to ten years in prison.
Another way a DUI can become a felony is when an offender faces multiple DUI convictions. In Pennsylvania, multiple DUI convictions within a ten-year period can result in felony charges. A third DUI conviction within ten years is a third-degree felony punishable by up to seven years in prison, while a fourth DUI within ten years is a second-degree felony punishable by up to ten years in prison.
Additionally, a DUI can become a felony if the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is extremely high. In Pennsylvania, a DUI with a BAC of 0.16 percent or higher is considered a high-BAC DUI and can result in felony charges. A first-time high-BAC DUI is a second-degree misdemeanor, but a second or subsequent offense is a first-degree misdemeanor and can result in up to five years in prison.
When a person faces felony DUI charges in Chester County, PA, it is crucial to hire an experienced DUI defense attorney. The penalties for felony DUI are severe and can impact an individual’s life for years to come. In addition to potential jail time, an individual may also face hefty fines, probation, community service, and license suspension.
Felony DUI charges in Chester County, PA, are serious and carry significant legal consequences. A DUI can become a felony if the driver causes injury or death to another person, has multiple DUI convictions within ten years, or has a high BAC. Offenders facing felony DUI charges should seek professional legal help to navigate the legal system, fight for their rights, and potentially reduce penalties. If you find yourself charged with a felony DUI, do not hesitate to reach out to a DUI defense attorney who can provide you with the necessary guidance and support. Remember, preventing DUI incidents is the best way to avoid felony DUI charges and protect yourself and others on the roads.
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.