Repeated DUI Consequences

Understanding Repeat DUI Penalties in Pennsylvania

When it comes to repeat DUI offenses in Pennsylvania, the consequences grow more severe with each conviction. The state’s laws take into account offenses committed within the last ten years when determining penalties. Factors like the number of convictions and your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) heavily influence fines, jail sentences, and license suspensions.

If you’ve been charged with multiple DUIs, seeking help from a DUI attorney is crucial to protect your future.

The Role of BAC in DUI Penalties

Your BAC directly impacts the severity of consequences for a repeat DUI. Penalties are categorized into three tiers:

Tier 3 (Highest DUI): BAC of 0.16% or Above

• Charge: First-degree misdemeanor
• Jail Time: Up to 5 years
• License Suspension: 18 months
• Other Penalties: Mandatory driving safety courses, community service, and a drug and alcohol evaluation
• Additional Notes: Refusing blood, breath, or urine tests can also result in a Tier 3 charge.

Tier 2 (High DUI): BAC of 0.10% to 0.159%

• Charge: Ungraded misdemeanor
• Jail Time: 30 days to 6 months
• License Suspension: 12 months
• Other Penalties: Drug and alcohol evaluation and mandatory safety classes.

Tier 1 (General Impairment): BAC of 0.08% to 0.099%

• Charge: Ungraded misdemeanor
• Jail Time: 5 days to 6 months
• License Suspension: 12 months

Third DUI Charge Within 10 Years

The penalties for a third DUI are particularly severe:

• Tier 1 or Tier 2 DUI: Jail time ranges from 5 days to 5 years.
• Tier 3 DUI: Punishment can include 1 to 5 years in state prison instead of county jail.

Stricter Penalties Introduced in 2018

Pennsylvania revised its DUI laws in 2018, imposing harsher penalties on repeat offenders:

• Third DUI (BAC ≥ 0.16%) or Fourth DUI: A felony charge is now applicable.
• Aggravated DUI With Injury: An additional two years of prison time can be added.
• DUI Resulting in Death: Now classified as a first-degree felony, carrying a potential five additional years of imprisonment if driving without a license or on a suspended license.

Facing DUI Homicide Charges in New Castle

Driving under the influence that leads to a fatality could result in homicide charges in addition to the DUI. This is considered a second-degree felony in Pennsylvania. Here’s what you need to know:

• Separate Charge Per Victim: A charge of homicide can be filed for each life lost.
• Penalties:
  • Up to $25,000 in fines per victim.
  • 3 to 10 years of prison time for each life lost.

Prosecutors must prove your intoxicated actions were the cause of the accident. Facing these penalties can be daunting, but a skilled New Castle criminal lawyer can help build a strong defense.

Why You Need a New Castle DUI Attorney

Repeat DUI charges or DUI with homicide penalties can be life-altering. Representation from an experienced New Castle DUI attorney is essential to navigating this challenging legal landscape.

Here’s How We Can Help:

1. Assess Your Case: We’ll evaluate the details of your situation and explain how the law applies to your charges.
2. Build Your Defense: Our attorneys have extensive experience handling DUI cases and will fight the evidence presented to protect your rights.
3. Provide Support: Legal processes are stressful. We’ll guide you step by step and ensure you’re never navigating this alone.

If you’ve been confronted with the above-stated charges, it’s best to have a New Castle criminal lawyer by your side to craft a robust defense strategy.

Why Choose a Logue Law Group?

We have a proven track record of representing clients across New Castle, West Virginia, and Eastern Ohio in DUI cases. Here’s why clients trust us:

• Extensive Experience: We’ve successfully handled hundreds of DUI cases, including repeat offenses and DUI with homicide.
• Free Consultations: Discuss your case with us at no charge so we can explore the best options for you.
• Local Expertise: We know Pennsylvania DUI laws in detail and understand the nuances of fighting charges in New Castle and beyond.

Act Now to Protect Your Future

The longer you wait to consult an attorney, the more challenging it becomes to fight your case. Don’t delay in securing representation from a qualified New Castle criminal lawyer. Contact Logue Law Group now at 844.PITT.DUI or reach us online for a free consultation.

Take the first step in safeguarding your future. Call today.