Out of State DUI 

In the realm of driving under the influence (DUI), the Federal government and all fifty states treat this offense with the utmost seriousness. The reason behind such strict prosecution is undeniable—a significant number of vehicle-related fatalities are directly caused by accidents involving impaired drivers.

If, by an unfortunate twist of fate, you are arrested and charged with a DUI in Pennsylvania while your permanent home is in another state, it is crucial that you familiarize yourself with the specific DUI laws of the Commonwealth. You must understand that Pennsylvania will handle your DUI case because that is where the arrest took place. Just like any other criminal charge, a DUI conviction in Pennsylvania can lead to the suspension of your driving privileges, regardless of where you actually live. In the Commonwealth, drunk driving is legally defined as operating a vehicle with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) exceeding .08 percent for individuals over 21 years old. For those under the legal drinking age, having any amount of alcohol in your system while driving is considered driving under the influence. Being faced with a DUI charge in Pennsylvania while residing in another state adds significant complexity to the process. It may require your physical presence in Pennsylvania to handle legal proceedings, and in some cases, you might also have to attend a hearing in your home state. Because of these complexities, seeking advice from a Philadelphia federal crimes lawyer is often necessary to navigate the dual jurisdiction issues. 

Out-of-state DUI Process

It is important to note that Pennsylvania differs from many other states by including license suspension as a mandatory part of its DUI laws. Let us look deeper into the potential penalties for DUI offenses in Pennsylvania:

• Mandatory installation of an interlock ignition device
• Possible jail sentence lasting from five days to two years
• Driver’s license suspension spanning twelve months
• Fines spanning between $300 and $5,000

For first-time DUI offenders, the penalties are comparatively more lenient. However, these penalties are significantly heightened in cases involving accidents or if your BAC surpasses .10 percent.

Effects of Out-of-State DUI on Pennsylvania Residents: Understanding the Consequences

At Logue Law Group, our experienced attorneys are ready to defend your case, regardless of your state of residence. When you hold an out-of-state license and get convicted of a DUI in Pennsylvania, the state cannot technically suspend your physical license card, but your driving privileges within the Commonwealth will be suspended. This means you will not be able to drive in Pennsylvania, and you will need to arrange for someone else to transport you to hearings and help you fight the charges. It is worth noting that Pennsylvania will report the outcome of your DUI conviction to your home state, which may result in the suspension of your license there as well. This is why having a Philadelphia federal attorney on your side is critical for managing the fallout in both states.

The Driver’s License Compact: Enhancing Road Safety through Interstate Cooperation

To ensure the exchange of information about traffic violations, including Driving While Intoxicated, the Driver’s License Compact brings together a majority of the states. If you reside in states such as Tennessee, Wisconsin, Massachusetts, or Michigan, Pennsylvania’s disclosure of your conviction may lead to additional penalties and restrictions imposed by these states.

I’ve been apprehended for DUI in Pennsylvania. What steps should I take?

If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Pennsylvania, it is essential to take immediate action. The first step is to hire a qualified and experienced Philadelphia federal crimes lawyer who specializes in DUI cases. A local attorney possesses extensive knowledge of current laws and effective strategies to protect your rights and achieve a favorable resolution. DUI convictions in Pennsylvania carry severe consequences that can significantly impact your life. Even if you reside in another state, you are still subject to Pennsylvania’s penalties for a DUI conviction. These penalties may include jail time, license suspension, and hefty fines. 

If the offense involves an accident caused by drunk driving or a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeding 0.10 percent, the penalties become even more severe. In these instances, the guidance of a Philadelphia federal crimes lawyer is indispensable.

Your attorney will need all the relevant details about your case. Trust and confide in your attorney to ensure effective advocacy on your behalf. They will explain the charges and available options, guiding you through the complexities of the criminal justice system.

For individuals facing DUI charges in or near Philadelphia, it is imperative to seek the services of a Philadelphia federal attorney. The Logue Law Group team proudly serves Philadelphia and its surrounding areas, including West Virginia and Ohio. To schedule a free k with a skilled Philadelphia federal crimes lawyer from Logue Law Group, please contact us today at 844.PITT.DUI. Alternatively,  you can reach us online. Do not try to navigate this alone; an attorney can help protect your future. Don’t delay! The longer you wait to acquire legal representation, the more challenging it becomes for your Philadelphia federal attorney to secure a favorable outcome. Take action now and schedule your consultation today, without hesitation!