DUI While on Probation

When you’re in Butler and find yourself committing a crime while on probation, things can quickly become complicated. The prosecution will stop at nothing to pursue the harshest punishment in such cases, especially if it’s a repeat offense like a DUI charge. The consequences can be incredibly dire as the legal system strictly prohibits alcohol consumption during probation, and any violation can result in severe consequences. In such a difficult situation, it’s crucial to reach out to a skilled Butler PA DUI Lawyer immediately for guidance and support in handling the charges.

How the System Works During Probation Period

Once you’re arrested for a DUI while on probation, the path to conviction is set in motion swiftly:

• Immediate Incarceration: There’s a possibility of immediate incarceration without a chance of release on bond.
• Probation Revocation: Your probation officer will file a statement documenting your fresh violation and revoke your probation.
• Negotiating with Prosecution: Your Butler PA Criminal Lawyer will put their negotiation skills to the test as they advocate for you with the prosecution.
• Facing Trial: You will have to face a trial for the DUI charge, and your attorney will strive to mitigate the sentence considering the probation violation.
• Sentencing: The final stage of the process is the sentencing.

Three-Tier System

In Butler, DUI cases follow a three-tier system based on the accused’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels.

First Tier Offense

A BAC level between 0.08% and 0.099% is classified as General Impairment, which is the lowest level of punishable offense. Here’s what you could face:

• First Offense: Probation of up to six months, a $300 fine, and potential requirements for a treatment program and alcohol highway safety school.
• Second Offense: Imprisonment between 5 days and six months, a fine of $300 to $2,500, one year of license suspension, and the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle for one year.
• Third Offense: Imprisonment between 10 days and two years, a fine of $500 to $5,000, one year of license suspension, and the installation of an IID for one year.

Second Tier Offense

For blood alcohol concentration between 0.10% and 0.159%, considered high impairment, the following punishments may apply:

• First offense:

1.         Fines ranging from $500 to $5,000
2.         Imprisonment for two days to six months
3.         One-year license suspension
4.         Mandatory treatment program
5.         Attendance to Alcohol highway safety school

• Second offense:

1.         Imprisonment for thirty days to six months
2.         One-year license suspension
3.         Fines of $750 to $5,000
4.         Mandatory treatment program
5.         Attendance to alcohol highway safety school
6.         Installation of an IID for one year

• Third offense:

1.         Strict penalties include imprisonment for 90 days to 5 years
2.         Fines from $1,500 to $10,000
3.         18 months license suspension
4.         Mandatory treatment program
5.         Installation of an IID for one year

Third Tier Offense

A blood alcohol concentration of 0.16% and above is considered the highest impairment, carrying severe punishments:

• First offense:

1.         Possible imprisonment for 3 days to 6 months
2.         Fines between $1,000 and $5,000
3.         One-year license suspension
4.         Mandatory treatment program
5.         Attendance to Alcohol highway safety school

• Second offense:

1.         Imprisonment for 90 days to 5 years
2.         Fines ranging from $1,500 to $10,000
3.         Installation of an IID for one year
4.         18 months license suspension
5.         Mandatory treatment program
6.         Attendance to alcohol highway safety school

• Third offense:

1.         Serious consequences include imprisonment for one to five years
2.         Fines between $2,500 and $10,000
3.         18 months license suspension
4.         Mandatory installation of an IID for one year

How to Handle The Situation on the Road

• Do not resist arrest as it can be used against you.
• Refrain from acknowledging that you are drunk.
• Do not make any statements without the assistance of your Butler PA DUI Lawyer.

How Your Lawyer Will Defend You

To receive a thorough defense, rely on a skilled Butler PA criminal lawyer from Butler who will carefully assess the charges against you and devise a robust legal strategy. Your attorney will explore every available option to have the charges fully dismissed or, in more severe situations, negotiate for a lighter sentence. Remember, each DUI probation case is unique, requiring a personalized approach.

For a complimentary consultation with one of our esteemed DUI defense attorneys in the Butler area, reach out to us online today or give us a call at 412-389-0805 or (844) PITT-DUI. Your legal rights and peace of mind matter to us.