First Time DUI Consequences

Getting arrested for a DUI involves serious repercussions, regardless of the circumstances. The penalties are determined by factors such as blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and whether any drugs (legal or illegal) are present in the system. To protect your rights and ensure the best outcome, seeking guidance from a skilled Somerset criminal lawyer is essential.

Pennsylvania’s DUI Offense Tiers

Pennsylvania classifies DUI offenses into three distinct tiers. These tiers determine the severity of the penalties for first-time DUI offenders:

Tier 1 DUI: General Impairment

• BAC Range: 0.08% to 0.099%
• Penalties:
  • No jail time for first-time offenders.
  • No license suspension.
  • Criminal charges may be expunged by completing the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program.

Tier 2 DUI: High DUI

• BAC Range: 0.10% to 0.159%
• Penalties:
  • Jail time of 2 days to 6 months.
  • Driver’s license suspension for 1 year.

When dealing with a Tier 2 DUI, the suspension of a driver’s license can significantly impact daily life. An experienced Somerset DUI attorney can help in such cases, potentially minimizing the suspension period through enrollment in the First Offender Program or even avoiding suspension altogether.

Tier 3 DUI: Highest DUI

• BAC Range: 0.16% or higher.
  • This level is twice the legal limit in Pennsylvania.
• Escalating Factors:
  • Illegal narcotics or prescription drugs found within the offender’s system.
  • Refusal to submit to BAC testing (blood, breath, or urine).

Penalties for Tier 3 (First Offense):

• Fines ranging from $1,500 to $5,000.
• Jail time between 3 days and 6 months.
• Driver’s license suspension lasting 1 year.
• Possible community service based on the region.
• A mandatory alcohol evaluation and participation in safe driving classes.

The First Offender Program (ARD)

For first-time offenders, Pennsylvania offers an alternative known as the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program. This program is designed to prioritize rehabilitation over harsh punishments.

Benefits of the ARD program include:

• Charges may be dropped upon successful completion.
• The option to expunge the DUI arrest from the individual’s permanent record.

Eligibility Criteria for ARD:

• No prior DUI convictions on record.
• Valid driver’s license and registration at the time of the incident.
• No accident-related incidents stemming from the DUI offense.

Key Takeaways for First-Time DUI Offenders in Pennsylvania

Why You Need a Somerset DUI Attorney

If you’ve never dealt with the legal system before, defending yourself against a DUI charge is daunting. Since Tier 2 and Tier 3 offenses carry severe consequences, involving an experienced Somerset criminal lawyer can make a significant difference. A seasoned Somerset DUI attorney can:

• Assist in getting charges reduced.
• Support enrollment into the ARD program.
• Minimize or completely eliminate license suspension.

Where to Get Help

Logue Law Groupoffers comprehensive assistance for DUI arrests in Somerset. Our team specializes in defending clients charged with DUI offenses, providing expert guidance to achieve the best possible outcome.

Whether you need advice on entering the ARD program or require representation, our seasoned Somerset criminal lawyers are here to help.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

• Call us at 844.PITT.DUI
• Visit our website for more details about the services we offer.