Lake Wallenpaupack DUI Attorney
Getting picked up for DUI is an unsettling experience, especially if this is your first offense. So much is up in the air, and many of our clients express fear that they will end up in jail or lose their license forever.
Fortunately, a drunk driving arrest is not the same as a conviction, and the state still needs to come up with proof beyond a reasonable doubt to convict you. Often, it is possible to reach a favorable resolution to your case—but you need the right Lake Wallenpaupack DUI attorney by your side.
DUI Penalties
Pennsylvania takes DUI very seriously and lodges stiff penalties against someone convicted. The precise punishments you face will depend on whether this is your first or subsequent offense, as well as your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of arrest.
First Offense
A first offense is an ungraded misdemeanor. If your BAC is at least .08 but under .10, then you will not have a license suspension or jail time, but you could have to pay a $300 fine and be put on probation.
If your BAC is at least .10 but less than .16, then you will serve 2 days to six months in jail and pay a $500-5,000 fine. Your license will also be suspended for 12 months.
If your BAC is .16 or higher, then you are looking at 3 days to six months in jail, a $1,000-5,000 fine, and a year-long license suspension.Those with BACs of .10 or higher also will need to undergo an evaluation for substance abuse and attend an Alcohol Highway Safety School.
Second Offense
Penalties increase if you have a second offense. Again, the precise penalties will depend on your BAC at the time of arrest.
If your BAC is under .10, then you must spend 5 days to 6 months in jail. You will pay a fine of $300-5,000.
If your BAC is at least .10 but less than .16, then a jail sentence of 30 days to six months is mandatory. Fines range from $750 to $5,000.
If your BAC is at least .16, then you are looking at 90 days to five years in jail and a fine of $1,500 to $10,000.
If you have been convicted of a second offense, then you will also have a 12-month license suspension followed by an ignition interlock device for another 12 months. Other penalties and requirements apply.
Third and Subsequent Offenses
The penalties increase considerably as you now show you have a recurring problem with drinking and driving. Depending on your BAC, you are looking at jail time of 10 days to 5 years, several thousand dollars in fines, and a license suspension that lasts for 18 months.
Speak with a DUI Attorney in Lake Wallenpaupack
After a DUI arrest, you might not know what to do or who to turn to. It is vital that you begin immediately planning your defense. At Farley & Weed, LLC, our DUI attorneys have helped countless drivers in DUI proceedings, and we know how to get favorable results. To find out more, please schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys.