Frequently Asked Questions About DUIs

In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense. If convicted, the defendant could be subject to devastating penalties, including substantial fines, lengthy imprisonment, license suspension or revocation, and other life-changing ramifications.   

However, there are several collective popular notions surrounding drunk driving cases, and an uninformed driver might easily end up in a precarious situation without experienced guidance. At Korey Leslie, Attorney-At-Law, LLC, our team can provide strong and compassionate legal assistance to individuals involved in drunk driving charges.   

Our dependable Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney can inform you about your rights and answer some of your frequently asked questions about DUIs in the state. Even if you’re facing DUI charges, we will fight for your rights and help keep your record as clean as possible. We're proud to serve clients across York, Harrisburg, Lancaster, and Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. 

FAQs about DUIs 

What is the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in Pennsylvania? 

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is the percentage of alcohol (ethanol or ethyl alcohol) in a person's blood or body system. In Pennsylvania, the legal limit for per se DUI is 0.08%. This means that having a BAC of 0.08% or more will result in a DUI conviction. In addition, commercial drivers and drivers below 21 years old have a BAC of 0.04% and 0.02%, respectively. 

Can I refuse the breathalyzer test? 

Under Pennsylvania's implied consent law, a person who drives a vehicle in the state is deemed to have given consent to take a breath, blood, or urine test to determine their BAC. You can refuse to submit to a breathalyzer or blood test, but you will be subject to automatic license suspension and other administrative penalties.   

If I've been charged with a DUI, will I go to jail? 

Getting arrested and charged with a DUI can be terrifying. However, you will only go to jail if you're found guilty or convicted of impaired driving. Hence, you need to act quickly and hire a strategic Pennsylvania DUI defense lawyer to outline an effective defense strategy for your case and help fight your charges.   

Will I lose my license? How will I get to work? 

If you're arrested for drunk driving in Pennsylvania, your driver's license may be suspended. However, you can apply for a hardship license, or occupational limited license to help you get to work, school, and your medical appointments. However, your application for the occupational limited license will only be approved if you meet the eligibility requirements. 

How long will a DUI conviction stay on my record in Pennsylvania? 

A DUI conviction in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will stay on your record for a lifetime. Unfortunately, a criminal record may result in increased difficulty getting accommodation, a new job, public benefits, scholarships, and certain financial loans. To avoid any of these devastating life-long consequences, it is important that you fight your DUI charges. 

What should I expect during the hearing? 

After a Pennsylvania DUI arrest, you will be arraigned at a preliminary hearing where the judge will read the charges against you. The judge will also ask you to enter a plea of not guilty or guilty. It is vital that you have an experienced legal counsel representing you at the initial arraignment and every other phase of the DUI court process. 

Is it worth it to fight a DUI? 

A DUI charge in Pennsylvania usually subjects the defendant to serious penalties and consequences. If convicted, you could be facing jail time, huge fines, license suspension, and other life-changing ramifications. The massive and far-reaching nature of the punishments for a drunk driving conviction in Pennsylvania makes fighting your DUI charges absolutely worthwhile.   

Are there any ways to reduce my sentence? 

A Pennsylvania DUI conviction may result in far-reaching penalties and consequences in every aspect of your life. However, you may be able to reduce your sentence by seeking Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD). The ARD program will focus on providing you with the necessary alcohol or drug treatment rather than incarceration or other form of punishment. Upon completing your ADR, your DUI charge will be dismissed. Also, you will have a clean record. 

Is hiring an attorney necessary? 

When facing DUI allegations, retaining a highly-skilled criminal defense attorney is imperative to uphold your rights and ensure you don't suffer the maximum punishments. Your legal representative can assess and investigate all of the facts of your DUI case and strategize a solid defense in pursuit of the most favorable outcome.  

Also, an attorney can fight for your rights, dispute the charges against you with substantial evidence, and attempt to keep your record as clean as possible or help you negotiate other favorable sentencing alternatives. Thus, having a reliable attorney on your side can make a significant difference in your drunk driving case. 

Need Representation? Contact Our Attorney Today.  

Facing DUI charges can be a scary experience. Don't face them alone. Contact us at Korey Leslie, Attorney-At-Law, LLC today to speak with a reliable DUI defense attorney. Our skilled lawyer can help you through the Pennsylvania criminal justice system and represent you at every phase of the legal process. We proudly serve clients across York, Harrisburg, Lancaster, and Camp Hill, Pennsylvania.