DUI Lawyer in Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania DUI Laws

The penalties for DUI in Pennsylvania continue to be disproportional to the crime. Upon learning that the charge is typically a misdemeanor, a driver inexperienced with the criminal just system may decide an attorney is unnecessary. The truth of the matter is that a drunk driving conviction can lead to jail time, fines and probation, the loss of your driver's license, job loss and years of legal hassle.

Blaine Jones is a veteran Pittsburgh criminal defense attorney who will examine your case and help you decide upon the best course of action. In some cases, an Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition – a kind of alternative sentencing – may be the best course of action. In other cases, the best defense is an aggressive offense. Whatever your situation, though, your case should be examined by a Pittsburgh DUI lawyer to help ensure your rights are upheld.

Driver's License Penalties for First-Time and Repeat Offenders

In a first-time DUI case, for someone who agrees to have his or her breath or blood tested for blood alcohol content, the consequences are as follows:

General Impairment – BAC .08 to .099:

• Driver's License: Up to 12-month suspension
• Jail Time: Up to 2 years in prison
• Fines: Up to $5,000
• Other Sanctions: Alcohol highway safety school and treatment when ordered. Installation of ignition interlock device.

High BAC .10 to .159:

• Driver's License: Up to 18 months
• Jail Time: Up to five years in prison
• Fines: Up to $10,000
• Other Sanctions: Alcohol highway safety school and treatment when ordered. 1-year ignition interlock device.

Highest BAC Penalties:

• Driver's License: Up to 18 months
• Jail Time: Up to 5 years
• Fines: Up to $10,000
• Other Sanctions: Alcohol highway safety school and treatment when ordered. 1-year ignition interlock device.

Nearly 50,000 motorists a year face a drunk driving charge in Pennsylvania, making it the most commonly filed criminal charge in the state. Yet it is a very serious charge and conviction can impact your life for years to come. A first-offense is often the most beatable. As such, your case should always be reviewed by an experienced criminal defense attorney. A DUI conviction has been estimated to cost as much as $20,000. 

Seeking the advice of an experienced attorney can actually protect your future financial wellbeing.