Out-of-State DUI

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense across all fifty states and at the federal level. This strict stance exists for a tragic reason: drunk driving accidents cause a significant number of vehicle-related deaths every year.

If you are arrested for a DUI in Pennsylvania but live in another state, it’s crucial to understand how the local laws affect you. Since the arrest happened in Pennsylvania, your case will be handled here. Just like any other criminal charge, a DUI conviction in Pennsylvania can lead to your driver’s license being suspended, regardless of which state issued it. In the Commonwealth, drunk driving is legally defined as operating a vehicle with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of .08 percent or higher for those over 21. For drivers under 21, having any amount of alcohol in their system counts as a DUI. Facing charges as an out-of-state resident adds a layer of difficulty, as you’ll likely need to return to Pennsylvania for court dates. A Philadelphia federal crimes lawyer can help manage these appearances for you. You may also face a separate hearing in your home state.

Out-of-State DUI Process

Pennsylvania’s DUI laws differ from other states, especially regarding penalties like mandatory license suspension. Here are the potential consequences for DUI offenses in Pennsylvania:

• Installation of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle
• A jail sentence ranging from five days up to two years
• A 12-month suspension of your driver’s license
• Fines ranging from $300 to $5,000

For a first-time DUI charge, penalties are generally lighter. However, the situation becomes much more serious if an accident occurred or if your BAC was over .10 percent. If you’re an out-of-state driver charged here, consulting a Philadelphia federal attorney is a smart move to protect your rights and navigate the legal process.

The Impact on You in Pennsylvania from an Out-of-State DUI

While Pennsylvania law cannot directly suspend a license issued by another state, it can—and will—suspend your privilege to drive within the Commonwealth. This means if you are convicted of a DUI in Pennsylvania as a nonresident, you are legally banned from driving within Pennsylvania’s borders. To attend court hearings or participate in your defense, you must arrange for someone else to drive you. At Logue Law Group, our experienced team is ready to defend your case, regardless of where you reside. If convicted, Pennsylvania will report the conviction to your home state’s licensing authority, likely leading to a suspension of your license there as well. To prevent the situation from escalating, securing a Philadelphia federal crimes lawyer is paramount.

Driver’s License Compact

The Driver’s License Compact is an agreement among 45 states, including Pennsylvania, that allows them to share information about traffic violations, such as Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). If you live in a member state, a DUI conviction in Pennsylvania will be reported back home. The only states not part of this compact are Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. However, even in these non-member states, a conviction can still result in penalties and license restrictions.

I was Arrested for DUI in Pennsylvania. What should I do?

If you are arrested for a DUI in Pennsylvania, taking quick and decisive action is critical. Your first step should be to hire a qualified lawyer who specializes in these cases. A skilled Philadelphia federal attorney will understand the current laws and know the best strategies to protect your rights and aim for a favorable outcome. A DUI conviction here can have severe, lasting consequences that affect many parts of your life. Even if you live out of state, you are subject to Pennsylvania’s penalties if convicted. These often include jail time, suspension of driving privileges, and substantial fines. The penalties increase if an accident was involved or your BAC exceeded 0.10 percent, which is why having a Philadelphia federal crimes lawyer is so necessary.

Your attorney will need every relevant detail about your case. Being open and honest with your legal counsel is vital, as it allows them to build the strongest defense possible. They will explain the charges, outline your options, and guide you through the criminal justice system’s complexities.

For anyone facing Driving Under the Influence charges in or near Philadelphia, securing a seasoned criminal defense attorney is essential. The Logue Law Group team serves Philadelphia and surrounding areas. To schedule a free initial consultation with a skilled lawyer from Logue Law Group, please call us today at 844.PITT.DUI. You can also contact us online.

Act now! The longer you wait to secure legal representation, the harder it becomes to achieve a positive result. Do not hesitate; schedule your free consultation today!