DUI Defense

Harrisburg DUI Attorney

Proven DUI Defense Throughout Dauphin County, PA

There is nothing like flashing red and blue lights in your rearview mirror to send a chill through your spine. Whatever happens, you know it is bound to be less than ideal, especially if you suspect you might be charged with driving under the influence.

When law enforcement wants to charge a person with DUI, they will stop at almost nothing to find evidence of the crime. If you were charged with impaired driving, you need a Harrisburg DUI lawyer on your side who can help you build a strong defense to protect your rights.

At the Dorward Law Firm, we understand how to effectively fight charges of drunk driving to help you keep your driving privileges with your CDL license or otherwise. We focus on crafting a defense tailored to the specific details of your situation, ensuring no stone is left unturned. Our team is adept at evaluating every aspect of your arrest, from the legality of the traffic stop to the administration of sobriety tests.

If you are facing misdemeanor or felony DUI charges in PA, Call (717) 429-0411 or contact our Harrisburg DUI lawyers online to schedule a free consultation today.

Understanding DUI Levels in PA

Pennsylvania’s DUI laws are based on a tiered system that considers blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and prior offenses. The three levels of DUI in the state include:

General Impairment: BAC of 0.08% to 0.099%
High BAC: BAC of 0.10% to 0.159%
Highest BAC: BAC of 0.16% and higher

Higher levels introduce more severe charges and stricter penalties upon conviction due to their risky nature to public safety. The severity of a high BAC level reflects in the increased likelihood of jail time, fines, and longer license suspensions.

The Dorward Law Firm has experience in handling high BAC cases, deploying tailored defense strategies aimed at challenging the evidence or reducing the severity of charges. Our approach involves meticulous examination of testing methods and the validity of results to ensure the best possible legal outcomes for our clients.

What are the Penalties for a DUI Conviction?

Under Pennsylvania state law, if you are charged with DUI, you can face serious charges. Your charges depend on the circumstances and if you have had prior convictions. For example, one factor that determines the level of your charges is your BAC percentage at the time you were arrested for driving under the influence.

It is important that you speak with a Harrisburg DUI lawyer as soon as possible if you have been charged with driving under the influence. The Dorward Law Firm is equipped to fight for you. Our knowledgeable attorneys comprehend the intricacies of Pennsylvania DUI laws and how to leverage mitigating factors to reduce potential penalties. By engaging an attorney early, you ensure the preservation of crucial evidence and witness testimonies.

Possible Penalties for DUI:

First Offense – 2 to 3 days in jail and one-year driver’s license suspension
Second Offense – 5 to 90 days in jail and 18-month driver’s license suspension
Third Offense – 10 days to 1 year in jail and 18-month driver’s license suspension

What are the Long-Term Consequences of a DUI Conviction in Harrisburg?

Aside from legal penalties, a DUI conviction in Harrisburg can have enduring impacts that affect various aspects of your life. You may face higher insurance premiums as a direct consequence of the DUI on your record, and the availability of coverage could become limited. This conviction will also appear in criminal background checks, potentially affecting housing applications or financial loans where a clean record is preferred.

At The Dorward Law Firm, we understand that the long-term ramifications of a DUI conviction extend beyond immediate legal consequences. That's why we take a comprehensive approach to defense, focusing on minimizing future impacts through resolutely challenging charges and seeking reduced penalties whenever possible. Our goal is to provide you with peace of mind and a clear pathway back to your everyday life.

What Happens to First Time DUI Offenders in PA?

In Pennsylvania, you can face severe penalties for drunk driving even if it is your first offense. Depending on the level of your BAC at the time you were tested, you could even face jail time.

Possible Jail Sentences for First-Time DUI Offenders Include:

BAC .08 – .099: no minimum jail time requirement
BAC .10 - .159: minimum of 2 days in jail
BAC .16 and higher: minimum of 3 days in jail

First-time offenders may also benefit from exploring diversion programs or treatment options as alternatives to incarceration. Participation in such programs can demonstrate to the court a commitment to rehabilitation and may lessen the overall impact of the charge on one's life. Additionally, utilizing the services of a DUI lawyer familiar with the local court system can significantly improve your chances of receiving a more favorable outcome.

Is a DUI a Felony in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the offense.

A first or second DUI offense in Pennsylvania is typically considered a misdemeanor. However, if the driver's blood alcohol content (BAC) was extremely high or if there was a passenger in the vehicle under 18 at the time of the offense, the offense may be charged as a felony.
A third or subsequent DUI offense in Pennsylvania is typically considered a felony. This is also the case if the driver causes serious bodily injury or death while driving under the influence.

It's worth noting that Pennsylvania's DUI laws are complex and can vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case. It's essential to consult a qualified Harrisburg DUI attorney if you're facing a DUI charge or have questions about the law.

Choosing Your DUI Lawyer in Harrisburg

Choosing the right DUI lawyer in Harrisburg can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your legal case. At The Dorward Law Firm, we pride ourselves on understanding the unique landscape of Harrisburg and the broader Dauphin County area. Our extensive local knowledge aids us in navigating local procedural nuances that could impact your defense. Clients facing DUI charges need attorneys who are not only well-versed in legalities but also in the intricacies specific to their localities, ensuring a personalized and robust defense strategy.

The real value lies in having a dedicated and knowledgeable team by your side that can communicate effectively with local judges and law enforcement. By selecting The Dorward Law Firm, you benefit from our established relationships and strong standing within the legal community. Our firm’s commitment to time-sensitive actions and transparent communication allows us to keep our clients informed and engaged throughout the legal process.

Call Our Harrisburg DUI Lawyers Now

The Dorward Law Firm offers free consultations to help you get started. During this initial meeting, we can help you better understand the charges you face and how to protect yourself against the devastating consequences of a conviction.

You should not go it alone. Let our Harrisburg DUI lawyer help you make the best use of the legal options you have available. Our thorough understanding of local jurisdictions and our proactive approach allow us to prepare robust defenses while keeping you informed and confident throughout the process. Whether questioning evidence or negotiating with prosecutors, our focused strategies aim at achieving a result that best serves your interests.

Facing felony DUI charges in PA? Call (717) 429-0411 now and schedule your free consultation with our Harrisburg DUI attorneys.

Understanding Local DUI Traffic Patterns

Harrisburg and the surrounding areas are characterized by unique traffic patterns that can influence both driving behavior and DUI enforcement practices. Given the significant presence of interstates like I-81 and I-83, along with heavily trafficked local routes, drivers may experience varying conditions that can lead to increased police patrol and DUI checkpoint frequency.

At The Dorward Law Firm, we leverage our deep understanding of local traffic patterns to highlight potential inconsistencies or procedural deviations in DUI arrests. Whether it’s questioning the validity of a traffic stop or the reliability of a sobriety test conducted under certain driving conditions, our localized insight empowers us to devise a more comprehensive defense strategy. This localized knowledge underscores our dedication to achieving outcomes that align with the specific needs and circumstances of our clients.

How Can You Fight a DUI Charge in Pennsylvania?

With over a decade of experience, Harrisburg DUI Attorney Shawn Dorward has seen many of the strategies used by law enforcement to obtain evidence for a criminal charge. Unfortunately, instances of police misconduct are all too common. With our team on your side, you can feel confident that your interests will be protected.

We may be able to prove that you:

Were unlawfully stopped by law enforcement: Police must have a good reason for stopping you, such as noticing erratic driving or witnessing some other irresponsible behavior. If this never occurred, you may be able to call the validity of the stop into question. In some situations, we are able to show that your lane deviations were “momentary and minor,” which would not be sufficient for a valid traffic stop.
Were unlawfully arrested by law enforcement: Sometimes police officers lack the proper training in DUI's, which could potentially lead to being unlawfully arrested during standardized field sobriety tests. Additionally, the wrong charges might be filed against you if you were arrested for a DUI, but the controlled substance was a prescription medication.
Underwent a faulty blood alcohol test: Breathalyzers are notoriously faulty. You should always question whether or not the machinery used to test you was properly calibrated and working correctly.
Had no other option but to drive: If you know you had alcohol in your system, proving your necessity to drive could help get you a reduced sentence.

Our commitment extends beyond just challenging evidence. We also explore unique defenses tailored to your specific circumstances, like identifying any medical conditions that could have affected sobriety test results or investigating the chain of custody of blood samples. We take a proactive approach to uncover favorable evidence that might otherwise remain hidden.

What is the A.R.D. Program?

Pennsylvania created the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (A.R.D.) to let drug and alcohol offenders have a chance to rehabilitate themselves and have a clean slate afterward. This program is an excellent opportunity for people who may not want to fight the charges against them, but are willing to work hard at living a clean and sober life.

To be eligible you must not have any serious criminal convictions and you cannot be accused of a serious crime. When you apply for the A.R.D program you waive your arraignment and then the District Attorney's office will schedule you an A.R.D. hearing for about 90 days out.

Conditions for completion of the A.R.D. program can include:

Driver's license suspension
Probation
Community service
Victim impact panel
Substance abuse treatment
Submit to drug testing
Alcohol Highway Safety School

If you have been arrested for a DUI and you think the A.R.D. program is something that could work for you, reach out to us and we will help see if this is right for you. We can help you apply to the program and we will follow you every step of the way until its completion.

Fight your DUI charges with a proven Harrisburg attorney! Call (717) 429-0411 today or contact us online to schedule a consultation!

Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Defense in Harrisburg

What Should I Do If I'm Pulled Over for a DUI in Harrisburg?

Being stopped for a suspected DUI can be a highly stressful experience, but maintaining a calm demeanor is crucial. Firstly, ensure that you pull over safely and turn off your engine. It's advisable to keep your hands visible, ideally on the steering wheel, and to comply politely with the officer's requests while refraining from volunteering additional information beyond your identification. You have the legal right to remain silent to avoid potentially incriminating yourself during the encounter. If requested, you can present your driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance.

Be aware that you are likely subject to Pennsylvania's implied consent law, which mandates that you submit to a blood alcohol test if asked, failure to do can result in administrative license suspension. It's advisable to contact a Harrisburg DUI lawyer promptly to discuss your best legal options and ensure your rights are protected throughout any ensuing legal proceedings.

Can I Refuse a Breathalyzer Test in Harrisburg?

In Pennsylvania, the law states that by operating a vehicle, drivers have implicitly agreed to submit to chemical testing for BAC if lawfully arrested by an officer who has reasonable grounds to believe the driver is under the influence. Refusing a breathalyzer test in Harrisburg or anywhere in Pennsylvania will lead to an automatic license suspension for a minimum of 12 months, regardless of the outcome of any DUI charges pursued thereafter. Such refusal is classified as a civil offense and may also bring increased penalties upon any conviction of DUI.

While refusal might seem like a way to avoid possible evidence in a DUI case, it's crucial to understand the severe implications and consult with a DUI lawyer to navigate the complexities this decision entails. At The Dorward Law Firm, we can provide guidance on how best to address a refusal and further strategize the defense based on your particular circumstances.

How Can a DUI Affect My Employment in Pennsylvania?

A DUI conviction can have significant repercussions on employment, especially for positions that involve driving. Employers may view a DUI as a liability, particularly if a professional driver's license (CDL) is required for your vocation. In Pennsylvania, a DUI can lead to a criminal record, which can make securing jobs that require background checks more challenging. Some employers conduct regular background checks, and a DUI conviction could lead to disciplinary actions or even termination.

At The Dorward Law Firm, we understand that a client’s livelihood depends on keeping their driving record clean. We endeavor to minimize the impact of a DUI arrest or conviction on your employment, seeking options like pleading to lesser charges or exploring diversion programs where applicable. Our focus is on providing comprehensive representation that protects our clients' long-term career and personal interests.

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Experience You Can Count On

Charges Dismissed 2 separate DUI’s
Charges Dismissed 2nd Offense Aggravated Assault by Vehicle While DUI.
Charges Dismissed 2nd Offense DUI
Charges Dismissed Driving Under Suspension DUI Related
Charges Dismissed DUI Charges for CDL driver

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We are specifically trained in DUI defense. Visit our bio to learn more!
We offer payment plans for your convenience.
Over 10 years of legal experience defending the accused.
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