Repeated DUI Consequences

In Pennsylvania, the legal system takes repeated Driving Under the Influence (DUI) offenses very seriously. The penalties get progressively harsher with each new conviction. When deciding on a sentence, judges look back at the last ten years of your record. The number of times you’ve been convicted for a DUI within that period will determine the fines you face, how long you could go to jail, and how long your driver’s license will be suspended. If you’re dealing with multiple DUI convictions, it’s crucial to get legal help from a skilled professional.

How Your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Affects Penalties

It’s not just the number of previous convictions that matters; your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) at the time of arrest is also a major factor in determining your sentence, even if it’s only your second offense. A knowledgeable Wellsburg criminal lawyer can explain how these tiers impact your case. The charges are broken down into three tiers:

• Tier 3 (Highest DUI): This applies if your BAC is 0.16% or higher, or if any drugs (either prescription or illegal) are found in your system. A Tier 3 DUI is a first-degree misdemeanor. The penalties can include up to five years in prison, a license suspension for 18 months, mandatory driving safety classes, community service, and a required drug and alcohol evaluation. You will also be charged under Tier 3 if you refuse to take a blood, breath, or urine test.
• Tier 2 (High DUI): If your BAC is between 0.10% and 0.159%, this is considered a Tier 2 offense. For a second DUI at this level, it’s classified as an ungraded misdemeanor. This can lead to a jail sentence of 30 days to six months, a 12-month license suspension, and mandatory drug and alcohol evaluation and safe driving classes.
• Tier 1 (General Impairment): This is for a BAC between 0.08% and 0.099%. A second offense at this level is also an ungraded misdemeanor, with a jail sentence ranging from five days to six months and a one-year license suspension.

Penalties for a Third DUI Offense

A third DUI conviction within ten years brings even more severe consequences. The penalties are substantial and can have a major impact on your life. A Wellsburg DUI attorney is essential to navigate these serious charges. For a Tier 1 or Tier 2 third offense, the jail sentence can range from five days up to five years. For a Tier 3 third offense, you could be sentenced to one to five years in a state prison, which is much more serious than a county jail sentence.

Stricter Laws for Repeat DUI Offenders

In 2018, Pennsylvania’s DUI laws were updated to impose even tougher penalties on repeat offenders. Now, if you are facing your third DUI and your BAC is 0.16% or higher, you can be charged with a felony. This same felony charge applies if it’s your fourth or subsequent arrest, regardless of your BAC level. It’s critical to have a Wellsburg criminal lawyer by your side to challenge these serious allegations.

The Consequences of DUI with Homicide

When a DUI incident leads to the death of another person, the legal situation becomes incredibly grave. This is an unthinkable tragedy, and the charges reflect that severity. If you’re charged with DUI and have caused a fatal accident, you may also face a charge of Homicide. This is a second-degree felony, and the prosecution must prove that you were driving under the influence and directly caused the accident. For each person who died, you can be charged with one count of Homicide.

If found guilty, the penalties are devastating: fines up to $25,000 and a prison sentence of three to ten years for each death. An experienced Wellsburg DUI attorney understands the gravity of these charges and can build a strong defense.

What Happens When Aggravated Assault is Involved?

The law is also stricter for those who cause injury while driving under the influence. If you cause an injury while intoxicated and are driving with a suspended license or no license at all, you could face an additional two years in prison for aggravated assault. Similarly, if a death occurs and you were driving without a valid license, the potential prison sentence is increased by five years. These enhancements show how seriously the law treats repeat offenders who continue to drive irresponsibly. A Wellsburg criminal lawyer can help you understand these complex charges.

Why You Need an Experienced Wellsburg DUI Attorney

Have you or someone you know been arrested for a second or third DUI in the last decade? If so, you need a seasoned attorney who has handled many cases just like yours. At Logue Law Group, we have represented countless individuals facing DUI charges. When dealing with such severe penalties, it’s easy to feel like giving up. But before you consider pleading guilty, contact us. Our team is committed to getting the best possible outcome for your case.

A dedicated Wellsburg DUI attorney will guide you through the legal process, explain your charges, and prepare you for your hearing. The district attorney will work hard to secure a conviction, bringing in expert witnesses to prove your guilt. You need an advocate who will aggressively protect your rights. A qualified lawyer will review all evidence, challenge witness testimony, and explore every legal defense available. Your future is on the line, and your case deserves serious dedication.

Our group proudly serves the Wellsburg area, as well as greater Wellsburg, West Virginia, and Ohio. Contact us today for a free consultation at844.PITT.DUI or reach out to us online. A third DUI conviction can change your life forever, so act now.

Remember, the longer you wait to hire legal representation, the harder it is for a Wellsburg DUI attorney to achieve the best result for you. Don’t wait. Call us right away to protect your future.