Pennsylvania DUI/DWI Defense That Puts Your Future First
A driving under the influence (DUI) arrest doesn’t have to mean automatic conviction. At Robert S. Andrews, Jr. Attorney at Law, I challenge the evidence against you. Pennsylvania’s tier system for DUI results in some of the region’s harshest penalties, with consequences increasing based on your blood alcohol content (BAC). Even before conviction, a DUI license suspension can immediately impact your ability to work and support your family.
As a criminal defense lawyer with nearly 35 years of experience, including my work as a former Senior Deputy Attorney General, I understand how prosecutors build their cases – and how to challenge them to protect your future.
Understanding Pennsylvania DUI Charges
Pennsylvania law categorizes DUI offenses based on several key factors:
- First offense DUI: May qualify for the accelerated rehabilitative disposition (ARD) program
- Multiple DUI offenses: Result in harsher penalties
- Underage DUI: Subject to strict zero-tolerance rules
- Commercial driver DUI: Can affect professional driving licenses
- DUI with accident: May involve additional criminal charges
- Refusal to submit to testing: Triggers automatic driver’s license suspension
After conviction, penalties range widely based on your BAC and prior record: first-time, low-BAC offenders face fines and probation. However, high-BAC offenders, repeat offenders and those convicted of DUI involving drugs can face more years in jail, very high fines (up to $10,000), lengthy license suspensions and having an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle.
How My Firm Fights On Your Behalf
Many clients trust me because I’m to-the-point and aggressive when it matters – and in a DUI case, it often does. The DUI arrest process has critical stages where your rights may be compromised, from field sobriety and breath test accuracy issues to potential Miranda rights violations during traffic stops.
If the answer to the question “Was anything done improperly before or during your arrest?” is yes, then, as your DUI attorney, I will investigate and use those errors to challenge the prosecution’s case.
Pennsylvania DUI FAQs: From Initial Arrest To Case Outcomes
Clients facing DUI accusations often have pressing questions. Here are some of the most frequent inquiries I hear and their answers.
How are first-time DUI offenses treated in Pennsylvania?
First-time offenders sometimes receive consideration. For instance, they may be able to enter the ARD program instead of going to jail, and this can even result in their record being expunged. The program is focused on rehabilitation rather than incarceration.
How can I challenge the results of a breathalyzer test?
You can challenge breath test results due to issues with the device itself, errors in how police conducted the test or medical conditions that could affect the outcome. Illegal traffic stops can also be a reason to question the test, which a DUI attorney can explore.
Will I lose my license after a DUI arrest in Pennsylvania?
License suspension after a DUI arrest depends on your BAC, prior record and test refusal. Suspensions range from no suspension (for a first-time, low BAC offense) to 18 months for high BAC or refusing a test. ARD program participants may have shorter suspensions and occupational limited licenses are available in some cases.
Get Legal Help From A Trusted Lawyer In Western Pennsylvania
Whether you’re dealing with the immediate aftermath of a DUI arrest, navigating the court process, or considering expungement, contact me at 724-460-0400 or via my website. My private practice as a DUI attorney serves clients in Cranberry Township and throughout Butler, Allegheny and Beaver counties. I also meet clients at my Pittsburgh office by appointment.