How Can I Get An Underage Drinking Charge Expunged?

Having a history of criminal activity on your record can jeopardize future opportunities. Many people don’t realize that even something as minor as an underage drinking charge can show up on a background check and limit your ability to get a job or be accepted for a visa.

Luckily, there’s a process called expungement, in which you can request the removal of this unwanted record from your history. However, the law varies in each state, and a need for reputable Philadelphia expungement lawyers.  Let’s uncover every detail you need to know about the expungement of an underage drinking charge in Philadelphia, PA.

What Is Expungement?

In simple terms, expungement is the legal process of deleting or destroying your criminal record. This process aims to give opportunities to people who committed a crime in the past.

As this process permanently erases your criminal charge from your history, it follows strict guidelines, and only a few cases are allowed for expungement in Pennsylvania.

Cases Allowed For Expungement In Pennsylvania

Here are the cases eligible for expungement in Pennsylvania:

• Non-conviction cases: Non-conviction records are the cases in which you were charged with a crime but did not receive a conviction. You can entirely expunge these records if you did not commit any other misdemeanor or felony offenses.
• Summary offenses: A summary offense is a minor category of criminal offenses in Pennsylvania. These include underage drinking, disorderly conduct, and public drunkenness. If you have been convicted of a summary offense, you may be eligible for expungement after paying your fines.
• Special Programs: You may also be eligible for an expungement if you have completed a particular program, such as Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD). This pre-trial intervention program is offered to first-time, non-violent offenders.
• People aged 70 and above: If you are 70 years or older and have not been convicted of any other crimes for the past ten years, you may be eligible for an expungement.

Expungement Of Underage Drinking Charge In Pennsylvania

By now, you already know that expungement is probable in underage drinking charges in Philadelphia, PA. According to 18 Pa.C.S.A. Sec. 9122 (a)(3), you can file for an underage drinking charge expungement so long as:

• The requestor has settled off all his penalty fines and tickets;
• The requestor has accomplished the driver’s license suspension;
• The requestor has filed a petition to expunge at the Court of Common Pleas.

The entire expungement process is time-consuming and may take a few months to get your records cleared. Furthermore, it’s not 100% guaranteed that your petition will be approved.

Because of this risk, it’s highly advisable to seek the help of a qualified lawyer to represent you in court. An expungement attorney will guide you through every step of the process and increase your chances of getting your records expunged.

Talk To A Philadelphia Criminal Defense Lawyer

Our criminal defense lawyer at Brennan Law Offices has more than two decades of criminal defense experience helping clients get their records expunged. We also have an experienced DUI lawyer in Philadelphia if needed.

If you have been charged with an underage drinking offense and it’s having a detrimental effect on your life, it’s time you take action. Call our criminal defense attorney at 215-568-1400 to schedule your free consultation.

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What are The Consequences While Driving Under Different Influences?

Driving under the influence can put you in different types of danger. For one, there are physical consequences where you can suffer paralysis, brain damage, and even death. There are also mental consequences like being filled with guilt, especially when you accidentally kill someone. However, another consequence can have a huge impact on your life, and it comes in the form of criminal offenses.

There are different reasons why a person can be driving under the influence. It can either be because of the influence of alcohol or drugs. But whichever the reason is, it can still put you to different sorts of consequences.

Driving Under The Influence – Understanding The Difference

Driving under the influence (DUI) or impaired driving can be caused by two different things; it’s either because of alcohol or drugs. But no matter which of the two is the cause of a crime, they are still crimes that are punishable by laws. When a law enforcement officer thinks that you are too impaired to drive, they can accuse you of a DUI.

Consequences Of Driving Under The Influence

Whether you are accused of a DUI or a DWI, the consequences of a conviction will highly depend on the severity of your case. You will be investigated if you have committed a first-, second-, or third-degree crime that will lead you to a conviction. A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test will also be made at the time of your arrest to see the level of your influence. There are three levels of BAC:

• General impairment – 0.8 – 0.99%
• High BAC – 0.10 – 0.159%
• Highest BAC – 0.16% and above

If your blood alcohol content is higher than 0.8% you are legally considered impaired in the United States. Even if your alcohol content is only at 0.8% or below, if an officer thinks you are unable to drive, you will still be charged. This can still apply to anyone that is intoxicated because you are considered as not driving safely and putting others at risk. There are the most common punishments for a conviction under DUI or DWI:

• Imprisonment
• Suspension or revocation of driver’s license
• Confiscation of vehicle license plate
• Vehicle impoundment
• Ignition interlock device restrictions
• Alcohol abuse violations
• Monitored sobriety
• Mandatory alcohol abuse treatment program
• Rehabilitation

The effects of alcohol and drugs can affect a driver’s decision-making skills, as well as their coordination. This is mostly the main reason why driving under the influence can cause many accidents.

The Best DUI Attorneys

A DUI charge is considered a serious crime. It can affect your life in so many ways. That’s why if you’re facing a DUI charge, you will need the help of the best DUI lawyers in Philadelphia to help you defend your case. At Brennan Law Offices, we have a team of lawyers that will help ensure you are given the best DUI results. If you need a Philadelphia DUI attorney or a drug lawyer in Philadelphia, get in touch with us today at Brennan Law Offices.

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Why DUIs Spike On Xmas Eve And What To Do About It

Whether it’s to get to grandma’s house or meet friends, more people are on the roads during Christmas Eve. With the holidays, holiday parties and general celebrations are in full swing. With that comes more drinking and driving. Drunk driving on Christmas Eve is a problem that has been increasing in recent years.

Tips on How To Avoid DUIs on Xmas Eve

Many people drink alcohol heavily on Xmas Eve because of holiday drink specials. Hence, many people get behind the wheel after having one or two too many drinks. We should not drink and drive while thinking we can handle it. These tips will help keep us safe and away from any road accidents while driving on Christmas Eve:

1. Avoid drinking too much before leaving your house/event
2. Make sure to get a designated driver or take a cab home
3. Don’t try to handle your car keys

Xmas Eve DUI Laws

Alcohol consumption during Christmas Eve is a major issue for police departments all over the country. DUI checkpoints happen year-round, but they are particularly common during the holidays because many people will be out celebrating with alcohol.

The laws vary from state to state, but most have laws against drunk driving on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, even if it falls on a Saturday or Sunday. In cities such as Philadelphia, any driver under 21 cannot drink at all while driving or face hefty fines or even jail time if they get caught.

Knowledge on DUI Tests

In the United States, you are considered to be impaired if your blood alcohol content is above .08%. If the police suspect you have been drinking and driving, they will request a breathalyzer test or a sobriety test. You can refuse to take these tests, but it will likely lead to harsher penalties.

If you drink moderately and responsibly, it should not be a problem. However, if you drink a lot in a short period or mix drinks with energy drinks or other substances, your risk of DUI increases significantly.

If you are drunk and face DUI charges in Philadelphia, you should contact a DUI lawyer in Philadelphia from Brennan Law Offices. Our criminal law attorneys in Philadelphia have adequate experience in handling DUI cases.

A DUI on XMAS Eve is not worth the risk

There are many reasons why you should avoid driving under the influence. You risk killing someone or hurting yourself. You could also lose your livelihood. You could even get injured or face jail time.

Don’t take the risk, don’t drink and drive.

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What Is A Strict Liability Crime?

A strict liability crime is one that is classified as a criminal activity regardless of what someone’s intentions were. Even if you did not have criminal intentions, you can still be charged with a crime. You need to hire the best criminal defense attorney in Philadelphia if you have been accused of a strict liability crime.

What Are Examples of A Strict Liability Crime?

Statutory Rape

This is a crime that occurs when a person has sex with an underage person. You could be charged with a crime even if you were unaware of the fact the person was underage. It also does not matter if the underage person consented to the act. Additionally, it is possible for you to be charged with a crime if you intended to have sex with the underage person, but you did not carry out the actual act.

You Sell Alcohol to an Underage Person

It is illegal for anyone to sell alcohol to someone who is under the age of 21. It doesn’t matter if you believed the person was at least 21-years-old.

Traffic Offenses

The vast majority of traffic offenses are classified as strict liability crimes. If you are caught speeding, then you may be charged with a strict liability crime. It doesn’t matter if you did not believe that you went over the speed limit.

Possible Defenses

The reason that you should hire a criminal defense attorney in PA is because there are many possible defenses that you can use. You may be able to use one of the following defenses.

Contributory Negligence

Your attorney can argue that the plaintiff is partially responsible for the crime. The plaintiff may still be able to recover some damages.

Assumption of Risk

There are some issues that involve consent. If the plaintiff has engaged in a risky activity, then they may not be able to recover any damages.

Abuse or Misuse

It is common for people to file claims if they have been hurt by using a product. It is possible for people to recover damages from using a defective product. However, if the person intentionally misused or abused a product, then this can be used as a defense.

Comparative Fault

Comparative fault raises the question of how much the plaintiff contributed to their own issue. The plaintiff can get part of their claim reduced if they contributed to the crime.

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5 Common Myths Related To DUI

Drinking is a part of American culture. These five common DUI myths related to DUI have become popular over the years as some drivers try to beat the system. It’s important to understand that these drinking myths may be dangerous to your health.

Don’t Worry about DUI Unless Your Blood Alcohol Content is 0.08 Percent

This very popular DUI myth is both dangerous and false. Your blood alcohol content (BAC) at 0.08 percent or higher confirms drunk driving—but it’s possible to be arrested when the officer feels you look or act drunk. If you appear to be driving impaired after drinking, you can be arrested for DUI with or without a confirmed BAC of 0.08 percent or higher!

However, if you’re arrested for DUI in such circumstances, you need a Philadelphia criminal justice lawyer to defend your rights. It may be possible to argue the validity of your test results. An experienced DUI lawyer in Philadelphia can help you to avoid a DUI conviction.

Drive Carefully to Avoid Getting Arrested for Driving Under the Influence

Drinking alcohol impairs your ability to operate a vehicle. Even if you drive carefully, it’s possible to get arrested for drunk driving. Stricter Pennsylvania DUI laws and checkpoints make it more difficult to avoid getting pulled over.

A law enforcement officer may randomly decide to detain you. If you fail the officer’s tests, you could be arrested for driving under the influence.

Police Must Catch You Driving to Make a DUI Arrest

Unfortunately, a police officer doesn’t need to catch you driving drunk behind the wheel. If you believe that’s the case, you’re wrong!

If an officer observes you acting drunk, they’ll reasonably believe you’re driving under the influence. You may still be arrested for DUI.

Eat a Meal or Wait at Least an Hour to Lower BAC Levels

Some believe that eating food or waiting for the alcohol to burn off will lower the BAC level after drinking. Sadly, neither of these options will reliably help you to avoid a DUI.

Eating may help you to overcome some of alcohol’s narcotic effects but doing so won’t affect your BAC. Your BAC is likely to rise to its highest level about an hour after you consume it.

And drinking coffee or taking a cold shower are also unlikely to change your BAC levels after drinking.

Avoid alcohol to avoid a DUI. Ask a designated driver to get behind the wheel. It’s still possible to fail a breathalyzer after consuming one or two drinks!

Suck a Penny to Trick the Breathalyzer

Sucking on a dirty penny won’t improve your chance of passing a chemical test. Unfortunately, this myth has been disproven many times over the years. A breathalyzer device measures air within the lungs. A penny in your mouth won’t help! Law enforcement officers may also look inside your mouth before administering the test.

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Can I go to Jail for a 2nd DUI Offense?

Everyone makes mistakes, but driving under the influence is not one easily forgiven in Pennsylvania. Courts have been cracking down with harsher ways to punish these crimes in hopes of deterring others from making the same decisions in the future. So if you’ve been charged with a DUI for the second time, there’s even more at stake than the already severe consequences of a first offense.

If you’re wondering whether you could go to jail for a 2nd DUI offense, the short answer is yes. But the penalties will depend on the specific details of your arrest. Here’s what you need to know:

The General DUI Laws in Pennsylvania

The penalties for a DUI are categorized based on the Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) and history of prior offenses. In 2003, the Commonwealth of PA passed legislation to lower the legal limit of alcohol to 0.08 within the following 3 categories:

• General Impairment – .08 to .099% BAC
• High BAC – .10 to .159% BAC
• Highest BAC – .16% & higher

So anyone caught driving with a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher could receive a DUI charge, while certain classes of people may receive harsher penalties, despite the BAC category they fall under. These individuals include: underage drivers, school-hired drivers, commercial drivers, drivers who cause injury to other individuals or property, and drivers who refuse breath or chemical testing.

What is Considered a “Second Offense” DUI?

In Pennsylvania, DUI offenses have a 10-year look back period. This means that any convictions during this time period will be counted. So if you have been charged with a previous DUI in the last 10 years, another charge will be considered your second offense.

Penalties for a Second DUI

General Impairment

Criteria:

• 0.08-0.99% BAC
• No property damage or injury
• 21 years or older
• Refuses a chemical test

Penalties may include:

• 5 days to 6 months in jail
• 12-month license suspension
• 1-year ignition interlock
• $300 to $2,500 fine
• Treatment or alcohol highway safety school when ordered
• Ungraded misdemeanor

High Impairment

Criteria:

• .10-0.159% BAC
• General BAC with property damage or injury
• In a school vehicle with 0.02-.159% BAC
• In a commercial vehicle with 0.04-0.159% BAC

Penalties may include:

• 30 days to 6 months in jail
• 12-month license suspension
• 1-year ignition interlock
• $750 to $5,000 fine
• Treatment or alcohol highway safety school when ordered
• Ungraded misdemeanor

Highest Impairment

Criteria:

• .16% or higher BAC
• DUI Drugs

Penalties may include:

• 90 days to 5 years in jail
• 18-month license suspension
• 1-year ignition interlock
• $1,500 to $10,000 fine
• Treatment or alcohol highway safety school when ordered
• First-degree misdemeanor

Other consequences of a second DUI charge:

• Increased insurance rates and loss of insurance
• Difficulty getting a student loan or applying to colleges
• Suspension or revoked scholarships from the university you attend
• Inability to pursue advancement in your career or job field if the employer requires a background check on prospective candidates

If you or someone you know is facing a second DUI charge, do not wait to get the representation you need to fight for a lighter sentence and minimize your jail time. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.

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Are Field Sobriety Tests Mandatory in PA?

If you are pulled over with suspicion of driving under the influence, you have substantial rights under Pennsylvania law. With about 1.5 million people arrested in a given year for driving under the influence, police are vigilant about keeping our roads safer and will look for a number of reasons to stop a driver. To protect your rights when pulled over by an officer, here is what you need to know.

Field Sobriety Tests are not Mandatory in PA

Under Pennsylvania’s implied consent law, by operating a vehicle within the Commonwealth of PA, a driver is presumed to consent to a blood, urine or breath test of his or her blood alcohol content (BAC). But you are not required to agree to a field sobriety test – an alternative diagnostic test used to measure a driver’s level of intoxication. You have the right to decline and remain silent until you have a lawyer present and it is vital that you do so to prevent anything you say or do from being used against you in court.

Officers have a number of reasons they use to pull over drivers for suspicion of driving under the influence, driving over the speed limit, staying in a lane, driving recklessly, etc. So if you are pulled over, here are the rights you have in PA:

• To refuse a field sobriety test
• To a trial with legal representation
• To have an attorney to review the state’s evidence
• To call witness
• To testify
• To make the state prove their accusations beyond a reasonable doubt

What is a Field Sobriety Test?

Standard field sobriety tests are developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration designed to help police decide if they should make an arrest. They include:

• Walk-and-Turn Test requiring a driver to take nine steps touching heel to toe walking a straight line before turning on one foot to face the opposite direction in the same manner.
• Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test (“Follow My Finger”) where the officer will observe the eyes of a driver as they slowly follow a moving object (such as a pen or flashlight) to see if there is any distinct jerking, angling or irregularity in the eye movement.
• One-Leg Stand Test will instruct the driver to stand with one foot about 6 in. off the ground and begin counting starting aloud from one-thousand until told to stop.

In addition to these standard tests, other tests may include: heel-to-toe test, finger-to-nose test, alphabet recitation, fingers-to-thumb test.

Always keep in mind, that once a driver asks to speak to a lawyer, the officers are obligated to stop asking questions and gathering information from you. So it is crucial that this is the first thing you do when pulled over.

The Downside of Field Sobriety Tests 

Field tests are statistically proven to be unreliable, and even many sober individuals are unable to perform the required tasks. Outside elements like the weather or road conditions may also make it more difficult for a driver to pass a test, in addition to their physical condition; for example, if the suspect is overweight, suffers from vertigo, or has arthritis, which in all cases make it difficult to balance in any situation.

Unfortunately, it is also possible that the officer administering the test may not be not objective in recording your results or could simply make errors that would cause you to fail. For example, if the officer is conducting the horizontal gaze nystagmus test while standing with his back to moving traffic. This alone would make it difficult for any driver to fully concentrate on the task.

When considering the consequences of a failed field test, the inaccuracy is too much to risk, so it is critical that you know your rights. Likewise, if you have been arrested and are facing DUI charges, our experienced defense attorneys can bring to light any defenses to your case that will protect these rights and preserve your freedom. Contact us today to discuss your DUI case in a free consultation.

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The Sobering Consequences of DUIs for Underage Drivers

Impaired driving is a serious crime that affects even the most law-abiding citizens who make one bad decision to get behind the wheel. 1 in 3 driving-related deaths involve a driver with a BAC at the legal limit (0.08%) or higher – and what’s even more staggering is that alcohol is involved in 23% of all fatal crashes among 16-20-year-olds, who are under the legal drinking age.

These statistics are a driving force behind why Pennsylvania takes drunk driving very seriously. So if you or someone you know has gotten behind the wheel under the influence and under the drinking age, it’s important to know the consequences that are waiting for you if you get pulled over.

Drunk Driving in Pennsylvania

For all drivers 21 and over, Pennsylvania divides their fines and penalties for a DUI into three categories based on the blood alcohol concentration of the driver at the time of the arrest.

0.08% to 0.099%: General Impairment BAC

0.10% to 0.159%: High BAC

0.16% & over: Highest BAC (or under the influence of a controlled substance)

Whether it is a first, second, or third offense will also play a role in the court’s decision. These consequences can range anywhere from 5 days to 5 years in jail, $300 to $10,000 in fines, 1 to 1 ½ years license suspension, and mandatory drug and alcohol treatment and safety programs. Any driver who refuses to submit to blood alcohol tests are subject to harsher penalties, no matter how many charges they have had in the past.

The Consequences of a DUI for Underage Drivers

For underage drivers, Pennsylvania has a strict DUI conviction for a BAC of as little as 0.02%. Minors who are pulled over or caught driving under the influence risk the following mandatory minimum sentences:

1st Offense

• 48 hours in jail
• A fine of $500
• License suspension of 12 months
• An alcohol safety school & alcohol/drug treatment program determined by the court

2nd Offense

• 30 days in jail
• A fine of $750
• License suspension of 12 months
• An alcohol safety school & alcohol/drug treatment program determined by the court
  

3rd Offense

• 90 days in jail
• A fine of $1,500
• License suspension of 18 months
• An alcohol safety school & alcohol/drug treatment program determined by the court

There are also collateral consequences to keep in mind too. For high school or college students, a DUI conviction could result in suspension or expulsion, while jeopardizing scholarships and any character-related programs or achievements. And as a public record, you also face the negative stigma that’s associated with a DUI within your community and with employers; while many insurance companies will also choose to raise rates significantly for convicted drivers.

What Happens After an Underage DUI Arrest?

If you’re pulled over by the police for driving under the influence, the best thing you can do is remain calm and respectful to the law enforcement. You should ask to speak with your attorney immediately as anything you say before this request is part of the investigation and can be used against you in court. And this includes any questions asked by the officer about your sobriety. Being cooperative doesn’t require you to answer any alcohol-related questions after being pulled over. However, if you are showing visible signs of intoxication – bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, etc.- you will likely be arrested on the spot.

For select first-time DUI offenders, there is an opportunity to expunge a DUI conviction from your record under Pennsylvania’s Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program. This program may include counseling, probation, safety classes, and community service. Eligibility will be automatically be denied for defendants whose charge includes the resulting injury or death of other drivers.

Having an Experienced DUI Defense Attorney on Your Side

If you’ve been convicted of an underage DUI charge, our attorneys are skilled at the thorough investigation of drunk driving arrests to help you exploit weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and minimize the lifetime consequences at risk. Contact us today so we can fight for you.

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Should I Get a Lawyer for My First DUI?

If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol for the first time, it was probably one of the most traumatic experiences of your life. And now, you most likely have a lot of questions. The first one most likely being, “should I get a lawyer?”  Even if you boast a perfectly clean driving record going into your arrest, the answer is still YES.  Drunk driving crimes are taken very seriously in Pennsylvania, so if you’re a first-time offender, here are some of the main reasons why you need to get a lawyer today.

To Get Answers to Your Questions

Even if you’ve had friends or family who has been convicted of a DUI in the past, every case is different. You’ll have questions that need answers based on your specific circumstances.  Without prior experience in the court system, it’s normal to be scared, and an experienced attorney can help ease your concerns by providing you information and guiding you through the process.

As a first-time DUI conviction, you may have more options available to you than in a repeat case, such as a disposition program to avoid a criminal record. It’s important to understand the various scenarios and details of these options, but you’ll be expected to decide quickly. Trying to make these decisions on your own could cost you in the long run.

To Protect Your Rights

By hiring a lawyer right away, they can examine the specific details of your case to determine any possible defenses on your behalf. You have rights under the state and federal law, ensuring that law enforcement handled the initial stop and arrest properly. Your lawyer will be able to catch any of these violations to give you the best possible outcome for your case.

Common defenses involve the following: 

• The credibility of the officer who arrested you
• Whether or not the initial traffic stop was constitutional – did they have reasonable suspicion to stop you? Were you read your rights?
• Ensuring the police obtained consent for DUI testing
• The accuracy of the testing equipment used due to lack of maintenance or calibration
• Whether or not the proper testing procedure was followed – observing you for 20 min before testing you, testing within 2 hours of driving the car, etc.

A number of these circumstances could mean for dismissal of the case, so make sure you are working with an attorney who is experienced in DUI crimes.

To Minimize the Consequences You’ll Face

Under state law, the severity of penalties depends on a multitude of factors, including whether it’s a first-time or repeat offense, your blood alcohol concentration level (BAC) at the time of the arrest, and if any injuries or fatalities were a result of the defendant’s condition. While being a first time-offender does help your case, it doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. It does, however, generally give you more options under the law in terms of your penalties. This may involve Pennsylvania’s Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program which may allow for expungement of the crime from your record upon completion.

Other potential penalties and consequences you may face with a DUI charge include:

• Fines/Fees
  Anything over the legal limit could result in fines of $300-$5,000
• Jail Time
  A BAC of over 0.10 for a first-time offender allows for up to 6 months in jail
• Suspension of Driver’s License
  If BAC is over 0.10 or you refused a test, your license could be suspended for a year; that includes losing a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or work.
• Insurance Rate Increases or Unattainability
  A DUI may result in higher limits of insurance and more expensive coverage
• Employment Implications

Many employers have policies against employing or hiring anyone with a DUI conviction:

• Increased Penalties in the Future
  Due to Pennsylvania’s 3-tiered sentencing guidelines, any second offense you face will be much more severe than the first
• Drug & Alcohol Treatment
  You may be forced to undergo drug and alcohol education or treatment, as well as community service if a minor was in the vehicle
• More Severe Penalties
  If there was collateral damage as a result of your DUI, including injuries or fatalities, you’ll be faced with much more serious penalties, as well as possible lawsuits from the victims
  

If you’ve recently been arrested for a DUI, don’t wait any longer to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. Whether you’re a first-time or repeat offender, our lawyers will fight to protect your rights and minimize your consequences. Contact us for a free consultation today.

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Collateral Consequences of a DUI

Drunk driving is Pennsylvania’s second leading cause of accidents and fatalities, behind only speeding, with Philadelphia making up a large percentage of these tragedies. For this reason, even a first-degree offense can lead to serious legal repercussions, including substantial fines, mandatory drug, and alcohol counseling, even jail time. While you may be aware of these consequences, you may not realize the long-term collateral damage it also causes. So before you call just any lawyer to defend your DUI case, here are the collateral consequences you could be risking.

Increased Auto Insurance Premiums
In addition to the potential fines, you’ll be responsible for, a DUI conviction can make your auto insurance a real issue. First and foremost, your rates will increase significantly. And switching insurance companies won’t help; your criminal record makes you a high risk no matter where you go which will make companies reluctant to cover you. You could wind up paying premiums of up to hundreds or thousands of dollars more than drivers without a record.

Transportation Challenges
One of the risks you take with drunk driving is losing your license. In some cases, a defendant can petition the court for a restricted license that allows you to still (and only) get to and from work, but in many cases, you won’t be so lucky. Without public transportation, that makes daily commutes a major inconvenience on you and your loved ones. Consider driving your kids to school or sporting events, grocery shopping, going to the bank or post office, or doctors visits when someone gets sick or hurt. Not to mention if traveling is part of your job, you’re looking at far bigger problems. 

Lost Employment Opportunities
As an at-will employment state, employers-employees in PA can be terminated by either party for any reason (within discrimination laws). So even if the state simply accuses you of a DUI, your employer can fire you without recourse. What’s worse is they don’t have to rehire you if the charges are dropped or you’re acquitted. A clean driving record is necessary for a multitude of jobs which require good character (medicine, finance, social services, etc.), so your future employment opportunities will be significantly affected as well.

Academic Sanctions

The student code of conduct at many schools and universities prohibit any illegal activity, including drunk driving. As a result, students can face serious repercussions from their academic institution after a conviction. This includes:

• Loss of a scholarship or financial aid package
• Probation
• Suspension
• Expulsion

And if education is in your future plans, you should know that schools may use a criminal record as a factor when deciding on applicants, which could result in the derailment of your academic plans before they even start.

If you’re facing a DUI charge, it’s crucial to understand that a conviction is not necessarily inevitable. With an experienced attorney, you’ll have the very best chance at providing a defense that applies to your case and could help you avoid a criminal record. Contact our lawyers to discuss your case in a free consultation. 

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