First DUI Offense

We all make mistakes; it’s a natural part of being human, even when we strive for perfection. One of these mistakes could be getting charged with a DUI. A DUI charge can negatively affect your personal life and career, even on the very first offense. Law enforcement officers across the United States are enforcing DUI laws more strictly, meaning that even first-time offenders can face significant penalties.

Penalties for a First-Time DUI

Let’s explore the specific penalties for a first-time DUI offense under Pennsylvania law. The penalties are categorized based on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of the arrest. It’s wise to consult a Wellsburg criminal lawyer to understand these classifications better.

General Impairment

• BAC Level: This category applies if your BAC is between .08% and .099%.
• Penalties: You could face up to six months of probation and a fine of $300.

High BAC

• BAC Level: This category, known as “High BAC,” is for a BAC ranging from .10% to .159%.
• Penalties: This offense carries a mandatory minimum of 48 hours to six months in jail, a 12-month license suspension, and fines between $500 and $5,000.

Highest BAC

• BAC Level: This is for a BAC of .16% or higher.
• Penalties: Penalties include a mandatory minimum of 72 hours to six months in jail, a 12-month license suspension, and fines from $1,000 to $5,000.

A first-time offense under the General Impairment category does not require jail time or a license suspension. However, you will likely need to attend Alcohol Highway Safety School, serve up to six months of probation, and pay a $300 fine. A knowledgeable Wellsburg DUI attorney can explain how recent legal changes now mandate an ignition interlock device for certain first-time offenders after a conviction.

An ignition interlock device is a small breathalyzer connected to your car’s ignition. Before starting the car, the driver must blow into the device. If it registers alcohol above a preset low limit, the car won’t start. If the BAC is below this limit, the engine will start. A key reason for this device is to let individuals convicted of a DUI keep their driving privileges, which is often essential for maintaining employment. A Wellsburg criminal lawyer can provide more details on this requirement.

Refusing a breathalyzer test during your arrest carries its own set of serious consequences. In that scenario, you could be forced to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle for one year, restricting your driving ability. Furthermore, if your BAC was in the High or Highest category, you face a mandatory license suspension, jail time, and higher fines. Discussing your case with a Wellsburg DUI attorney is crucial if you refuse a test.

Are There Alternatives to a Conviction for a First DUI?

Even though a conviction for a first-time DUI might seem certain, there are alternative paths that can help offenders maintain a clean criminal record. For example, options like probation and deferred verdicts are available for those who qualify. If you successfully complete your probationary period without any new charges, the offense can be cleared from your permanent record.

In some situations, people facing DUI charges may be eligible for Pennsylvania’s Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program. This program is specifically designed for first-time, non-violent offenders and offers a chance to have your record expunged after successful completion. A skilled Wellsburg criminal lawyer can determine if you are eligible for this program.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a first-time DUI in or near Wellsburg, it’s vital to get advice from an experienced lawyer. The Logue Criminal Defense team serves Wellsburg and the surrounding areas, including West Virginia and Ohio. Contact us today for a free initial consultation with a dedicated Wellsburg DUI attorney from Logue Law Group. You can call us at 844.PITT.DUI or visit our website.

Don’t wait to seek legal help! The sooner you retain an attorney, the greater your chances of securing a positive result for your case. Call us now!