Best Philadelphia DUI Lawyer
Navigating the complexities of a DUI charge can be daunting, especially in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where the laws are stringent and the consequences severe. It’s a situation that calls for the expertise of seasoned DUI lawyers who can guide you through the intricacies of the legal process. In this blog post, we will explore the services of some of the best DUI lawyers in Philadelphia, their approach to handling DUI cases, and why their expertise is crucial in such situations.
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DUI Attorney in Philadelphia – Cost & Fees
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense that can have severe consequences. In Pennsylvania, the laws governing DUI offenses are stringent and can result in hefty fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. This blog post will explore the DUI laws in Pennsylvania, the penalties associated with them, and the legal defenses that may be available to those charged with a DUI.
In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the importance of hiring a DUI lawyer, the process of a DUI case, the consequences of a DUI charge, and how the best Philadelphia DUI lawyers can help you navigate this challenging situation. Stay tuned as we explore these topics in detail, providing actionable steps along the way to help you make informed decisions.
Understanding DUI Laws in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, a person is considered to be driving under the influence if they operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. However, even if a person’s BAC is below this limit, they can still be charged with a DUI if their ability to drive is impaired due to the consumption of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both.
The DUI laws in Pennsylvania are codified under Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, Section 3802.
Penalties for DUI in Pennsylvania
The penalties for a DUI in Pennsylvania vary depending on the driver’s BAC level and whether they have previous DUI convictions. For a first-time offender with a BAC of 0.08% to 0.099%, the penalties may include a $300 fine, up to six months of probation, and mandatory alcohol safety education. However, the penalties increase significantly for repeat offenders or those with a high BAC level.
For instance, in the case of Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. Derek Charles Mentzer (18 A.3d 1200), the defendant was charged with DUI, general impairment, pursuant to 75 PA. CONS.STAT. ANN. ยง 3802(a)(1). After being found guilty, it was revealed that he had a prior DUI offense in Maryland. As a result, his current conviction was classified as a second offense DUI under Pennsylvania law, which increased the grading of the offense and the maximum penalty.
“On February, 16, 2010, the Court continued sentencing to March 18, 2010 after it granted the Commonwealth’s motion to amend the information to include a prior DUI from 2006 in the State of Maryland, a fact of which the Commonwealth was ignorant until just before sentencing. The prior DUI had not been alleged in the criminal information, and the amendment resulted in an increase in the grading of the offense from an ungraded misdemeanor to a misdemeanor of the first degree.” – Com. v. Mentzer, 18 A.3d 1200
Legal Defenses for DUI Charges
If you’re charged with a DUI, it’s crucial to consult with a skilled attorney who can help you navigate the legal process. Potential defenses may include challenging the legality of the traffic stop, the accuracy of the breathalyzer or other testing methods, or the handling of the testing procedures.
DUI Attorney Near Me
Driving under the influence is a serious offense in Pennsylvania, with severe penalties that can significantly impact a person’s life. It’s essential to understand the laws and potential consequences of a DUI charge. If you find yourself facing such charges, seek legal counsel immediately to explore your options and potential defenses.
Please note that this article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal advice pertaining to your specific situation.
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Philly’s Best DUI Attorneys Speak Out…
Velter Yurovsky Zoftis Sokolson, LLC, a law firm with years of experience in criminal law, emphasizes the importance of having experienced DUI lawyers on your side. They understand that DUI is a mistake that people with otherwise sound judgment can make, and they are committed to helping their clients move on from this incident. They approach DUI cases with a combination of aggressive contestation in court and skillful negotiation for a favorable plea deal. As they put it:
“Driving Under the Influence is a serious offense in Philadelphia Pennsylvania. Drunk driving impairs both coordination and judgment. Therefore, an intoxicated person who decides to put their hands behind the wheel of a motor vehicle risks damage to both persons and property. The law recognizes this danger, which is why it treats DUI cases as criminal cases rather than mere Traffic offenses.”
On the other hand, The Fishman Firm, led by Brian M. Fishman, a former prosecutor who has both prosecuted and defended hundreds of DUI-DWI cases, emphasizes the importance of understanding the nuances of the law. The firm believes in the power of asking the right questions and taking advantage of every angle to defend against the charges. As Fishman states:
“It is essential that you have an experienced DUI attorney who knows the intricacies and nuances of the law, as they will ask the right questions and will take advantage of every angle to defend against the charges.”