DUI While on Probation

When you find yourself in Pittsburgh and commit a crime while on probation for another, things can get complicated. The prosecution will stop at nothing to seek the harshest punishment in such cases. If your prior violation was a DUI charge and you get arrested for the same offense, the consequences can be incredibly dire. The legal system strictly prohibits alcohol consumption during probation, and any breach can result in severe consequences. If you’re in this situation, it’s crucial to reach out to a skilled Washington PA DUI Lawyer immediately to guide you through the charges.

How the System Works During Probation Period

• Upon being arrested for a DUI while on probation, the wheels of conviction start turning swiftly:
• There’s a possibility of immediate incarceration without the chance of release on bond.
• Your probation officer will revoke your probation by filing a statement documenting your fresh violation.
• The negotiation skills of your Washington PA DUI Lawyer will be put to the test as they advocate for you with the prosecution.
• You will have to face a trial for DUI, and your attorney will strive to mitigate the sentence considering the probation violation.
• The last stage of the process is sentencing.

Three-Tier System

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

First Tier Offense

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

• For a first offense, probation of up to six months and a $300 fine. The court may also require you to undergo a treatment program and attend an alcohol highway safety school.
• In the case of a 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.
• A third offense invites imprisonment lasting 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: Fines ranging from $500 to $5,000, imprisonment for two days to six months, one year license suspension, mandatory treatment program, and attendance to Alcohol highway safety school.
• Second offense: Imprisonment for thirty days to six months, one year license suspension, fines of $750 to $5,000, mandatory treatment program, attendance to alcohol highway safety school, and installation of an IID for one year.
• Third offense: Strict penalties include imprisonment for 90 days to 5 years, fines from $1,500 to $10,000, 18 months license suspension, mandatory treatment program, and 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: Possible imprisonment for 3 days to 6 months, fines between $1,000 and $5,000, one year license suspension, mandatory treatment program, and attendance to Alcohol highway safety school.
• Second offense: Imprisonment for 90 days to 5 years, fines ranging from $1,500 to $10,000, installation of an IID for one year, 18 months license suspension, mandatory treatment program, and attendance to alcohol highway safety school.
• Third offense: Serious consequences include imprisonment for one to five years, fines between $2,500 and $10,000, 18 months license suspension, and 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 Washington PA DUI Lawyer.

How Would Your Lawyer Defend You

To receive a thorough defense, rely on a skilled Washington PA criminal lawyer from Washington 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 Washington 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.