Multiple DUI Attorney in Murrysville, Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, the severity of DUI penalties escalates with each subsequent offense. If you're facing multiple DUI charges--especially within 10 years--you're likely looking at more severe consequences than you would with a first-time offense.

It's crucial to understand that the number of prior DUI convictions on your record significantly impacts the penalties you may face, including longer license suspensions, higher fines, mandatory alcohol treatment programs, and potentially even imprisonment. 

At the Law Offices of James Crosby, we understand how challenging this time can be - the fear of what could happen next, the impact on your personal and professional life, and the feeling that you're navigating uncharted waters after a DUI charge.

Our team, led by James Crosby, is based in Murrysville, Pennsylvania. We have a deep understanding of Pennsylvania's DUI laws, and we serve clients throughout Harrison City, Greensburg, Latrobe, and Westmoreland County. Our team takes pride in providing personalized, empathetic counsel while aggressively defending your rights. 

Potential Penalties 

You must note the potential penalties you may face depend on your specific situation. These penalties are pressing, but with the right criminal law attorney, your chances of facing lesser charges increase.

The following are a few offenses you can face with multiple DUI's:

Second DUI offense within 10 years: 

• Mandatory minimum of 5 days to 6 months in jail 

• Fines ranging from $300 to $2,500 

• License suspension for 12 months 

• Completion of an alcohol treatment program

Third DUI offense within 10 years: 

• Mandatory minimum of 10 days to 2 years in jail 

• Fines ranging from $500 to $5,000 

• License suspension for 12 months 

• Completion of an alcohol treatment program

Fourth or subsequent DUI offense within 10 years:

• Considered a felony offense 

• Mandatory minimum imprisonment of 1 to 7 years 

• Fines ranging from $1,500 to $10,000 

• License suspension for 18 months 

• Completion of an alcohol treatment program  

DUI Laws in Pennsylvania  

The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in Pennsylvania is 0.08% for individuals aged 21 and above. However, it's important to note that even if your BAC is below the legal limit, you can still be charged with a DUI if your ability to operate a vehicle is impaired.  

Also, in Pennsylvania, a person can be convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) even if their car isn't in motion. According to Pennsylvania law, a person can be convicted of a DUI if they were "driving, operating, or in actual physical control" of a motor vehicle while under the influence.  

Aggravating Factors 

Certain factors can aggravate a DUI charge, leading to enhanced penalties. Some specific aggravating factors that can impact your DUI case include: 

• High Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC): Pennsylvania categorizes DUI offenses based on BAC levels. The state recognizes three types of DUI: general impairment (BAC of 0.08% to 0.099%), high-rate (BAC of 0.10% to 0.159%), and highest-rate (BAC of 0.16% and above). Penalties increase with each category. 

• Minor Passengers: If you were arrested for DUI while transporting a minor, you could face additional penalties. This situation often leads to an elevated offense classification and extended license suspension. 

• Operating a School Bus: If you're charged with DUI while operating a school bus, it's generally considered a felony. School bus drivers are subject to a lower BAC limit compared to regular drivers. 

• Serious Injuries or Death: If your DUI resulted in serious injuries or the death of another person, you could be charged with a felony. Some states incorporate injuries and fatalities as aggravating factors, leading to felony classification and enhanced penalties for DUI convictions. 

• Underage Drinking: Drivers under the age of 21 can be convicted of DUI for a BAC of .02% or more, with additional penalties for driving with a measurable amount of alcohol below .02%. 

Possible Defenses 

If you're facing multiple DUI charges, it's crucial to mount a strong defense to safeguard your future. At the Law Offices of James Crosby, we're experienced in handling complex DUI cases and can help you navigate the legal process. Here are some of the potential defenses we may use: 

• Challenging the accuracy of the breathalyzer or blood test results. 

• Questioning the legality of the traffic stop or arrest. 

• Presenting evidence of a medical condition or medication that may have affected the test results. 

• Disputing the reliability of field sobriety tests. 

• Asserting violations of constitutional rights during the arrest or investigation process. 

• Seeking to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully. 

• Establishing an alibi or providing evidence of being elsewhere at the time of the alleged DUI. 

• Questioning the credibility or qualifications of the arresting officer or prosecution's witnesses. 

Remember, each case is unique, and the best defense strategy will depend on the specific circumstances of your situation. Our team is ready to fight for your rights.

Alternative Sentencing Options 

Pennsylvania offers alternative sentencing options for eligible individuals facing multiple DUI charges. Here are some of the potential alternatives:

• Accelerated Rehabilitative Program (ARD): This is a program for first-time offenders. Participants must complete a highway safety program, substance abuse treatment, and endure six to twelve months of court-supervised sobriety and license suspension. If you successfully complete the program, your DUI charges could be dismissed. 

• Probation Instead of Jail Time: In some cases, we might be able to negotiate probation instead of jail time. This option allows you to serve your sentence within the community under the supervision of a probation officer. 

• Community Service: Depending on the specifics of your case, community service might be an alternative to other penalties. This could involve various tasks, such as cleaning public spaces or volunteering at local charities. 

• Substance Abuse Treatment Programs: If alcohol or drug addiction played a role in your DUI, participating in a substance abuse treatment program could be a beneficial alternative. These programs focus on recovery and rehabilitation, which courts often view favorably. 

• House Arrest/Electronic Monitoring: In certain scenarios, house arrest with electronic monitoring might be a viable alternative to jail time. This option allows you to serve your sentence at home while wearing an electronic device that monitors your location.