Depending on how a DUI case goes, a conviction can have long-lasting repercussions that can affect an offender for years after their case is closed. The truth is, you can have a significantly better outcome if you have an effective Pittsburgh DUI attorney. This one factor is often the difference in many DUI cases that result in a more favorable sentence or dropped charges. Explore more about the lasting consequences of DUI charges in Pittsburgh, PA.
The Short-Term Consequences of DUI in Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania as a Whole
Pennsylvania DUI laws impose harsher penalties for repeat offenders. Each level of DUI carries increased penalties. For first-time offenders convicted of a DUI in which they had a blood alcohol level (BAC), beyond the legal limit of 0.08% but not higher than 0.099%, it is a misdemeanor charge.
A conviction can lead to the following penalties:
- Probation for up to six months
- A $300 fine
- Mandatory alcohol safety classes
- Court-ordered treatment
- A one-year ignition interlock device on the cars they intend to operate
For a second DUI conviction with one prior DUI offense, which is a misdemeanor, offenders are subject to the following penalties:
- Suspension of license for 12 months
- 5-6 months of jail
- A fine of $300 to $2,500
- Mandatory alcohol safety classes
- Court-ordered treatment
- A one-year ignition interlock device on the cars they intend to operate
For a third DUI conviction with two prior DUI offenses, it is a second-degree misdemeanor. Offenders are subject to the following penalties:
- A 12-month suspension of your driver’s license
- 10 days and up to two years in prison
- A fine between $500 and $5,000
- Treatment, if court-ordered
- One-year ignition interlock on any vehicle you drive
Drivers arrested for driving with a BAC between 0.10% and 0.159% are subject to even steeper penalties. The worst of these are first-degree DUIs that are reserved for offenders with two or three priors that can carry sentences of up to five years in prison.
Whatever your charge is, a conviction would theoretically result in the corresponding penalties outlined above. These would typically be the most you would receive in sentencing. This is assuming there are no other aggravating charges or circumstances that worsen the crime. Thus, these are for basic, straightforward charges.
If you hire a DUI lawyer, however, your lawyer can potentially get your charges lowered in exchange for a plea deal by negotiating with the prosecutor. This also mitigates the maximum penalties you can receive. Having a DUI lawyer represent you can potentially lessen the severity of your case outcome by diminishing some of the consequences of DUI charges in Pittsburgh, PA.
The Lasting Consequences of DUI Charges in Pittsburgh, PA
Two years in prison or 12 months without a driver’s license may seem like a long time. However, some more permanent consequences of DUI charges in Pittsburgh, PA, can follow you around for many years to come. Some of the hardest consequences for DUI offenders to overcome are listed below:
- Difficulty finding employment
- Difficulty finding housing
- Problems with professional licensing
- Limited volunteer opportunities
- Problems with family personal relationships
- Child custody issues
Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition
The Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program in Pittsburgh is available for many first-time DUI offenders. It is administered through the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, and hearings for ARD program applicants are held at the Allegheny Courthouse in Pittsburgh at 436 Grant Street.
This program helps you avoid jail time and may expunge charges for offenders who complete the program. Talk to a trustworthy and reputable Pittsburgh DUI attorney to potentially avoid a conviction through the ARD program. The ARD program is a faster and more effective option for DUI defendants.
Why Choose Us?
If you want to improve your chances of getting as few short-term and lasting consequences as possible for your DUI charge, you need a good DUI attorney. Over the past 40 years, Louis W. Emmi, Attorney at Law, has represented a wide range of defendants with unique circumstances. Our team is highly skilled at adapting criminal defense strategies to fit our clients’ cases and is well-versed in PA DUI laws.
Louis W. Emmi, Attorney at Law, represents clients in Pittsburgh and the surrounding boroughs of Castle Shannon, Dormont, Scott Township, Bethel Park, Mt. Lebanon, and West Mifflin.
FAQs
What Are the Consequences of a DUI in PA?
The consequences of a DUI in PA can vary depending on prior criminal history, the judge’s discretion, and the skills and abilities of your DUI attorney. Consequences range from a few days in jail to a few years in prison, fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, and limited or restricted driving privileges for up to one year. A license suspension can last longer if the individual has multiple prior DUI convictions.
What Happens to First-Time DUI Offenders in PA?
First-time DUI offenders in PA who get arrested with a BAC of 0.08% and 0.099% may get probation for up to six months. They are also subject to a $300 fine and mandatory alcohol education classes at their expense. If the court orders treatment, offenders are required to meet those requirements. Finally, they must install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle for one year, also at their own expense. Hiring a DUI lawyer can help minimize these penalties.
What Is the Most Common Sentence for a First DUI?
The most common sentence for a first DUI involving no additional charges or circumstances is typically the payment of minimum fines and probation rather than jail time. First-time offenders are more likely to get an alternative sentence to jail if they have no prior criminal record. Many DUI first offenders realize the actions that led to getting a DUI and then are able to prevent a second.
Do Most People Go to Jail for DUI?
For first-time DUI incidents, most people may spend less than 24 hours in jail, if that, upon arrest. However, after that first booking, the majority of first-offense DUI convictions do not carry significant jail-time sentences, if any at all. Probation is typically the most severe penalty that first offense DUI cases receive.
Hire a DUI Lawyer With a Focused Approach to DUI Defense
Louis W. Emmi, Attorney at Law, thoroughly investigates all evidence to build a strong defense that can lessen penalties or see your case dismissed entirely. Call our office to schedule your free consultation.
