DUI Defense Attorneys in Philadelphia

Safeguarding Your Freedom & Driving Rights

If you were charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in Pennsylvania, it is important that you retain strong representation as soon as possible. Otherwise, if you are convicted, you could face thousands of dollars in fines, a revocation of your driver’s license, and years in jail. An experienced attorney can help you make sound decisions as they guide you throughout every stage of the criminal proceedings.

At Mincey Fitzpatrick Ross, our DUI lawyers in Philadelphia have over 100 years of combined experience in this complex area of law. As a result, we have an in-depth understanding of Pennsylvania DUI law as well as a long track record of success for our clients. In fact, our legal team has helped thousands of individuals over the years, and we can assist you, too. You can trust us to provide you with the relentless representation you deserve.

Understanding Pennsylvania DUI Law

In the state of Pennsylvania, it is illegal for an individual to operate a motor vehicle if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is over 0.08%. However, individuals under the age of 21 are not allowed to operate a motor vehicle if their BAC is 0.02% or greater, and the limit for commercial drivers is 0.04%.

In Pennsylvania, a first time DUI offender could face a fine up to $300, up to 6 months driver's license suspension, mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device in your motor vehicle, and a criminal conviction on your record. This long term consequence can affect your ability to get a job, apply for a loan, or maintain housing.

Subsequent DUI convictions include:

Penalties for Second Offense DUI in Pennsylvania

• Between $500 and $5,000 in fines
• 1-year driver’s license suspension
• Between 5 - 60 days in jail
• Alcohol highway safety school
• Possibly court-ordered treatment

Penalties for Third Offense DUI in Pennsylvania

• Between $1,000 and $5,000 in fines
• 1-year driver’s license suspension
• Between 72 hours and 6 months in jail
• Alcohol highway safety school
• Possibly court-ordered treatment

Implied Consent Laws in Pennsylvania Explained

Pennsylvania has an implied consent law, which means any individual with a driver's license automatically agrees to BAC testing when asked by a police officer. Upon refusing to submit to a chemical test, you will face an automatic suspension of your driver’s license in addition to a fine. If this is your second or third DUI offense, you face greater penalties than if this was your first offense.

Consequences of Underage DUI in Pennsylvania

If you are under 21 years old and found with a BAC of 0.02% or higher, you could face serious consequences. Pennsylvania is a "zero tolerance" state for underage drinking and driving. The penalties for a conviction include:

• Between 2 days to 6 months in jail
• 1-year driver's license suspension
• Between $500 to $5,000 in fines

Resources for DUI Offenders in Philadelphia

There are several local resources available for DUI offenders in Philadelphia. Here are some of them:

1. Philadelphia Municipal Court's DUI Treatment Court: This program is designed for individuals who have been charged with DUI and have a substance abuse disorder. It offers a comprehensive treatment plan, including substance abuse treatment, counseling, and support services. Participants must complete the program requirements to have their charges dismissed.

2. The Bridge Way School: This school is designed for students in grades 9-12 who are in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. It provides a supportive environment for students to continue their education while receiving treatment and support services.

3. Pennsylvania DUI Association: This organization provides education and training to DUI offenders and their families. They offer resources such as support groups, counseling services, and referrals to treatment programs.

4. Philadelphia Treatment Centers: There are several treatment centers in Philadelphia that specialize in substance abuse treatment, including those that offer DUI-specific programs. Some of these centers include Malvern Treatment Centers, Livengrin Foundation, and Caron Treatment Centers.

5. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD): MADD is a national organization that works to prevent drunk driving and support victims of drunk driving crashes. They offer support groups, victim services, and educational resources for DUI offenders and their families.

6. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): AA is a worldwide organization that provides support and resources for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. There are several AA meetings held in Philadelphia, and attending these meetings can be a helpful resource for DUI offenders seeking support and community.

It is important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and there may be other resources available in Philadelphia that are not included here. It is recommended that individuals consult with a legal professional or substance abuse counselor to determine the best resources for their specific needs.

Contact Us at (215) 550-1999 for a Free Consultation

Contact Mincey Fitzpatrick Ross today to schedule a free initial case evaluation and we can help you figure out your next best steps for moving forward. Some of our attorneys are former prosecutors, which means we understand how the prosecution thinks and how they will approach your case. We will work to counter any and all arguments they make against you so you can retain your freedom and driving privileges. Call now and speak with one of our knowledgeable DUI lawyers in Philadelphia.