A DUI charge in Pennsylvania can have serious, long-term consequences, including license suspension, hefty fines, and possible jail time. Pennsylvania has strict DUI laws, and without a strong defense, you could face severe penalties that impact your career, finances, and freedom.

At Sutton and Lovette, we specialize in DUI defense in Pennsylvania, helping clients fight DUI charges, minimize penalties, and protect their future. If you have been arrested for DUI, it is critical to understand your rights and why hiring an experienced DUI attorney is your best defense.

Understanding DUI Charges in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, Driving Under the Influence (DUI) means operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both.

Key Points About Pennsylvania DUI Laws

• Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limit: 0.08 percent or higher is considered DUI.
• Drug DUI: You can be charged for driving under the influence of prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and illegal substances.
• Impairment DUI: Even if your BAC is below 0.08 percent, you can still be charged if officers believe you are impaired.
• Penalties increase with higher BAC levels or repeat offenses.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest?

Being arrested for DUI in Pennsylvania can be overwhelming. Here is what typically happens:

1. Field Sobriety and Breathalyzer Tests

• Police may conduct field sobriety tests to assess impairment.
• If arrested, you may be asked to take a breathalyzer test.
• Refusing a breathalyzer can result in an automatic license suspension.

2. Arrest and Preliminary Hearing

• After your arrest, you will be taken to the police station for booking.
• You will receive a notice of your preliminary hearing, where the judge will determine if there is enough evidence to proceed.

3. Court Proceedings

• If charges are filed, you will enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest).
• Your case may proceed to trial or sentencing depending on your plea and defense strategy.

DUI Penalties in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania enforces tiered DUI penalties based on BAC level, prior offenses, and aggravating factors such as accidents or injuries.

1. General Impairment DUI (BAC 0.08 to 0.099 percent)

First Offense:

• $300 fine.
• Alcohol highway safety school.
• Possible probation.
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) suspension.

Second Offense:

• Fines up to $2,500.
• License suspension for one year.
• Up to six months in jail.
• Mandatory alcohol treatment program.
• Ignition interlock device required.

2. High BAC DUI (BAC 0.10 to 0.159 percent)

First Offense:

• $500 to $5,000 fine.
• One-year license suspension.
• Up to six months in prison.
• Mandatory alcohol treatment program.
• Ignition interlock requirement.

Second Offense:

• $1,000 to $5,000 fine.
• 18-month license suspension.
• Up to five years in jail.
• Ignition interlock requirement.

3. Highest BAC DUI (BAC 0.16 percent or higher)

First Offense:

• $1,000 to $5,000 fine.
• One-year license suspension.
• 72 hours to six months in jail.
• Alcohol treatment program.
• Ignition interlock requirement.

Second Offense:

• $1,500 to $10,000 fine.
• One-year license suspension.
• Up to five years in prison.
• Ignition interlock requirement.

4. DUI with Drugs (Controlled Substances)

Even legal prescription drugs can lead to a DUI charge if they impair your ability to drive. These offenses carry penalties similar to alcohol-related DUIs, including:

• License suspension
• Hefty fines
• Potential jail time

Additional Consequences of a DUI Conviction

A DUI conviction in Pennsylvania does not just come with legal penalties; it can have lasting effects on your life.

• License Suspension: Most DUI offenses result in months or years of lost driving privileges.
• Higher Insurance Rates: A DUI can drastically increase auto insurance premiums or lead to policy cancellation.
• Permanent Criminal Record: A DUI stays on your record, affecting employment, travel, and background checks.
• Loss of CDL: Commercial drivers face strict penalties and may lose their ability to work.

Why You Need an Experienced DUI Attorney

Attempting to handle a DUI charge on your own is risky. A skilled DUI defense attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

1. Challenging the Evidence

• Breathalyzer and field sobriety tests are not always accurate.
• Your attorney can challenge improper police procedures or test results.

2. Negotiating for Reduced Penalties

• A lawyer can fight for reduced fines, shorter license suspensions, or alternative sentencing such as probation instead of jail.

3. Avoiding a Criminal Record

• In some cases, an attorney can help get charges dismissed or reduced to avoid long-term consequences.

4. Protecting Your Rights in Court

• An experienced DUI lawyer ensures your rights are not violated during your arrest or court proceedings.

How Sutton and Lovette Can Help You

At Sutton and Lovette Law Office, we provide aggressive, knowledgeable DUI defense to protect your rights and minimize penalties.

• Thorough Case Review – We carefully examine police reports, breathalyzer tests, and evidence.
• Strategic Defense – We tailor a legal strategy based on the details of your case.
• Experienced Representation – We have successfully defended thousands of DUI cases in Pennsylvania.
• Personalized Service – Every case is unique. We take the time to understand your situation and fight for the best possible outcome.

Proven Results, Affordable Fees

• Thousands of clients successfully represented.
• Dismissals and reduced charges secured.
• Flexible payment options and free consultations.

Do Not Face a DUI Alone – Get Expert Legal Defense Today

A DUI conviction can change your life, but the right attorney can help protect your future. Do not take chances—get the experienced defense you deserve.

Call us now for a free consultation

• Office Location: 104 S Center St suite 307, Ebensburg, PA 15931
• Website: www.suttonlovette.com

Your best defense starts with the right attorney. Lawyer up with Sutton and Lovette.