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Everyone makes mistakes. Some mistakes are bigger than others, though, and the consequences can be severe. This is especially true if you’ve been charged with aggravated assault with a vehicle while intoxicated. A conviction carries severe penalties. You need an aggressive Pittsburgh aggravated assault with a vehicle while intoxicated lawyer to protect your rights and advocate on your behalf.
Louis W. Emmi, Attorney at Law, provides strategic, detailed defense strategies for clients facing high-stakes charges. We can challenge the legality of traffic stops and scrutinize evidence to protect your rights and freedoms.
In 2023, there were almost 41,000 DUI arrests in Pennsylvania. A conviction for DUI can also impact your driver’s license and employment. Our team takes the time to understand your circumstances and tailor the defense to your needs. We explore all legal options, including reduced charges, alternative sentencing, and dismissal, if possible.
Comprehensive legal assistance in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
In Pennsylvania, an aggravated assault with a vehicle while intoxicated charge is defined in 75 Pa. C.S.A. § 3735.1. This law explains that if a driver under the influence causes an accident resulting in serious bodily injury to another party, the intoxicated driver’s negligence can result in a conviction of a second-degree felony. A second-degree felony conviction is punishable by up to 10 years of prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
If additional charges were involved, penalties could result in a longer prison sentence. For example, if the driver was driving without a license, an extra penalty may be applied. The final sentencing is ultimately determined by the judge presiding over the case. When you hire an aggravated assault with a vehicle while intoxicated lawyer, you may be able to get the charges or penalties reduced through plea negotiations with the prosecutor.
In most criminal defense cases, the difference between mitigated charges and penalties and a conviction with the maximum sentencing is a strong legal defense. Having an aggressive legal team working on your case can make a long-lasting difference in your future. Ways a Pittsburgh aggravated assault with a vehicle while intoxicated lawyer can contribute to your case are listed below:
State law enforcement and judicial agencies take aggravated assault with a vehicle while intoxicated charges more seriously than other DUI charges. This is because 35% of fatal accidents in Pennsylvania involve an intoxicated driver. Anyone facing these charges needs an aggravated assault with a vehicle while intoxicated lawyer to protect their rights and defend their freedom.
Representation by an established Pittsburgh aggravated assault with a vehicle while intoxicated lawyer who has over four decades of experience has its advantages. You not only benefit from their legal skills and knowledge but also from their familiarity with and reputation in local courts.
Louis W. Emmi, Attorney at Law, is no stranger to the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, located at the Allegheny Courthouse, 433 Grant Street, in Pittsburgh. He is well-known and well-respected among courthouse staff.
The sentence for aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI in PA is up to 10 years in prison. In addition, offenders can incur a fine of up to $25,000. Aggravated assault with a vehicle while intoxicated is a second-degree felony in PA. If there were additional charges, an extra two years in prison may be added on in addition to the maximum 10 years at the judge’s discretion.
There is no minimum sentence established in any of the PA aggravated assault laws or aggravated assault with a vehicle while intoxicated laws. The sentencing handed down is determined based on the severity of the injury caused by the assault. An offender’s prior record can also play a role in sentencing. Homicide by vehicle, which is a different crime, does carry a minimum mandatory three-year imprisonment.
Yes, aggravated assault charges can be dropped in PA. A knowledgeable attorney familiar with PA assault laws and skilled in criminal defense may be able to identify and effectively challenge one or more case details or pieces of evidence that can warrant dropped charges or a case dismissal. Valid reasons for charges to be dropped include a lack of causation between the defendant and the injured party, a problem with evidence, or a violation of the defendant’s constitutional rights.
The punishment for hitting another car while intoxicated in PA depends on whether another party was injured. If the collision did cause an injury and it was caused by a driver who was DUI, it could result in an aggravated assault with a vehicle while intoxicated charge, which is a second-degree felony. The punishment for a second-degree felony in PA is a maximum 10-year prison term. The actual sentence depends on the severity of the injury.
Louis W. Emmi, Attorney at Law, serves clients in the Pittsburgh area and surrounding boroughs of Mt. Lebanon, Bethel Park, Scott Township, Dormont, West Mifflin, and Castle Shannon. Call our office to schedule your free consultation.
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