Media, PA Felony DUI Attorney at Latoison Law

At Latoison Law, our seasoned and committed felony DUI attorney team understands the weight of a felony DUI charge and its potential repercussions. We comprehend how taxing this experience can be, so we ensure that you receive the emotional support required along with our legal services.

We offer empathetic and vigorous representation to help clients steer through the intricate legal process and aim for the best possible result for their cases. As top-tier Delaware County DUI attorneys, we hold a strong history of successfully defending our clients and safeguarding their rights. We are ready to extend our services for your benefit.

We will discuss the various facets of felony DUI charges in Pennsylvania, and how our expert attorneys can assist you in crafting a powerful defense to safeguard your future. Do not hesitate to reach out to us to schedule a case consultation. You need not confront such serious charges alone.

Secure Legal Representation From A Delaware County Felony DUI Attorney

A felony DUI charge in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, is a serious issue that can impact your personal and professional life profoundly. It is crucial to secure legal representation from a seasoned Delaware County DUI attorney who can assist you through the intricate legal process and advocate for the most favorable outcome in your case.

At Latoison Law, our devoted attorneys are committed to providing sympathetic, proven legal representation to assist you in protecting your rights and achieving the most favorable outcome in your case. Discover more about how we can guide you through the various facets of felony DUI charges in Delaware County, PA, and how our skilled attorneys can defend your rights. You deserve legal support, and emotional support as well, count on our team to assist you.

Overview Of The DUI Laws In Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has comprehensive laws concerning driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both. Under Pennsylvania Vehicle Code § 3802, it is illegal for anyone to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher or while impaired by drugs or alcohol. You could be convicted of drunk driving if it can be proven beyond a reasonable doubt that your BAC was 0.08 or higher.

While most DUI cases are prosecuted as misdemeanors in Pennsylvania, certain circumstances can elevate a DUI charge to a felony. A felony DUI conviction carries notably more serious penalties than a misdemeanor DUI, including extended jail time, higher fines, and a longer license suspension. If the prosecutor decides to charge you with a felony DUI, it is even more vital for you to secure representation from an experienced Delaware County felony DUI attorney as quickly as possible. The earlier we get involved in your case, the better we can shape the narrative.

Applying Felony DUI Chagers In Delaware County, PA

In Pennsylvania, a DUI can be charged as a felony under the following circumstances:

• You have three or more prior DUI convictions within a ten-year period.
• You caused a collision resulting in serious bodily injury or death to another person while driving under the influence.

It’s crucial to note that the prosecution must prove these aggravating factors to secure a felony DUI conviction. If these factors are not present, your charges may be reduced to a misdemeanor. We will thoroughly examine all aspects of your case to explore opportunities to challenge evidence. If we successfully get certain evidence dismissed, we can aim for a case dismissal instead. At Latoison Law, we prioritize your needs and offer legal and emotional support during this challenging time.

PennDOT Automatic License Suspension

In addition to criminal penalties, a DUI arrest in Pennsylvania can also result in an automatic license suspension through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). After your arrest, the officer will typically confiscate your driver’s license, and then issue a temporary license that expires after a certain time, so make sure you read it carefully.

You can request a PennDOT administrative hearing within ten days of your arrest to challenge the license suspension. Our experienced DUI attorney can represent you at this hearing and help you argue why you should maintain your driving privileges.

While your primary focus might be on the court proceedings, your ability to drive is still vital. Make sure you also discuss with us how we can assist you during the administrative hearing.

Pennsylvania DUI Penalties

DUI penalties in Pennsylvania vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case and your prior DUI history. Below is a general overview of the penalties for first, second, and third-offense DUIs:

DUI 1ST OFFENSE

If you are convicted of a first DUI offense, some of the penalties you might face include the following:

• Up to 6 months of probation;
• A $300 fine;
• Mandatory attendance at an alcohol highway safety school;
• Treatment when ordered.

DUI 2ND OFFENSE

The penalties become more severe if you are convicted of a second DUI within ten years. They include:

• 12-month license suspension;
• A fine between $300 and $2,500;
• Imprisonment from 5 days to 6 months;
• Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device for one year.

DUI 3RD OFFENSE

If you are convicted of a third DUI within ten years, the penalties, including a longer license suspension and imprisonment, become significantly harsher:

• 12-month license suspension;
• A fine between $1,500 and $10,000;
• Imprisonment from 10 days to 2 years;
• Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device for one year.

We can push for alternative sentencing options if you are convicted of a third DUI. For instance, we may convince the court to allow you to serve your time under house arrest instead.

DUI Cases Involving Aggravating Circumstances

Aggravating circumstances can result in enhanced penalties for a DUI conviction in Pennsylvania. If any of these factors are present, your penalties could become harsher. Some of these circumstances include:

DUI ACCIDENT-CAUSING BODILY INJURY

If you caused a collision that resulted in bodily injury to another person while driving under the influence, the penalties for your DUI conviction could be significantly higher. Depending on the circumstances, you may be charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony DUI with injury. You may also be obligated to pay restitution for the other party’s injuries.

BAC 0.10% OR HIGHER

If your BAC was 0.10 percent or higher during your arrest, you may face enhanced penalties, including a longer imprisonment term and installing an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle.

CHILDREN IN VEHICLE DURING DUI

If you were arrested for DUI with a child under 18 in the vehicle, you may face additional penalties under Pennsylvania’s Child Endangerment Laws, including mandatory jail time and increased fines.

What To Do After A Felony DUI Arrest In Delaware County, PA

If you’ve been arrested for a felony DUI in Delaware County, it’s critical to take the following steps:

1. Contact a skilled criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. They can help you understand your rights and start building a strong defense.
2. Ten days after your arrest, request a PennDOT hearing to challenge the automatic license suspension.
3. Gather pertinent evidence or documentation to support your case, including witness statements and medical records.

We understand that this is a stressful time for you, and if you were injured in an accident, your medical health is also likely a concern. As your legal counsel, we can help guide you through these challenges while advocating for your rights. Here’s how we can help:

UNDERSTANDING YOUR CHARGES

Our attorneys will explain your charges in detail and the potential penalties you might face. This includes explaining how Pennsylvania’s DUI laws apply to your case, the difference between misdemeanor and felony charges, and how aggravating circumstances might affect your case.

BUILDING YOUR DEFENSE

After evaluating the facts and evidence in your case, our attorneys will create a robust defense strategy. This could involve challenging the validity of the traffic stop, the DUI testing procedures, or the accuracy of the test results. Our aim will be to have your charges reduced or dismissed.

NEGOTIATING A PLEA DEAL

In some cases, it might be in your best interest to negotiate a plea deal. A plea deal often involves pleading guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for reduced penalties. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who can guide you through this process.

REPRESENTING YOU AT TRIAL

If your case goes to trial, our experienced attorneys will represent you in court. We will present your defense, cross-examine witnesses, and argue your case before the judge and jury.

Post-Conviction Help

Even after a conviction, you still have legal rights. We can help you with post-conviction matters such as filing an appeal, seeking expungement, or navigating the process of license reinstatement.

At our law firm, we understand that a felony DUI charge is serious and can have life-altering consequences. But remember, a charge does not guarantee a conviction. You have legal rights, and with our experienced Delaware County felony DUI attorneys by your side, we will advocate tirelessly on your behalf.

Don’t wait. Protect your rights and your future by calling us today for a confidential consultation.