Lackawanna County DUI Attorney Defending Against Drunk Driving Charges

Have you been charged with driving under the influence in Scranton or Lackawanna County? If you are facing a DUI, you are likely aware that you are in significant legal trouble, even if it is your first offense. In the state of Pennsylvania, charges of this nature are taken very seriously and you could be facing stiff penalties if you are convicted.

Understanding What You’re Up Against

Depending on the nature of the offense, you could face the following consequences if you are convicted:

• Time in jail
• Community service
• Expensive fines
• Mandatory treatment programs
• Revocation or suspension of your license

If you are looking for a competent and knowledgeable lawyer, Mr. Thompson is here to help. He has seen the serious repercussions of a DUI conviction and understands exactly how much is on the line. Losing your ability to drive is just one of the many consequences you could face, which could lead to an inability to keep a job or take care of your responsibilities. When you choose his firm to represent you, you can rest assured that he will be committed to treating your case with the attention and care it deserves.

Frequently Asked Questions About DUI In Pennsylvania

You probably have many questions about your immediate and long-term future amid DUI charges. Attorney Thompson can answer your specific questions, but in the meantime, these common questions and answers can provide clarity.

What are the penalties and defenses for serious DUI offenses?

Pennsylvania law treats all DUIs seriously. However, severe and multiple offenses can result in harsh penalties, such as mandatory jail time, hefty fines, license suspension and alcohol education programs.

• First offense: Up to six months probation, a $300 fine, a one-year ignition interlock requirement and possible alcohol highway safety school
• Second offense: 12-month license suspension, up to six months in jail, a $750 to $5,000 fine, a one-year ignition interlock requirement and possible alcohol highway safety school
• Third offense: 18-month license suspension, 90 days to five years in prison, a $1,500 to $10,000 fine, a one-year ignition interlock requirement and possible alcohol highway safety school

If a DUI leads to death or severe injury, it is a felony and can lead to a lengthy prison sentence. DUI defenses can include challenging the legality of the traffic stop or the accuracy of a breathalyzer or field sobriety tests.

What happens if you get a DUI while on probation?

As a violation of your probation, it could pose additional consequences, including probation revocation and associated penalties. Examples include steep fines, longer jail terms and more community service hours.

What are the potential penalties for a DUI in a personal vehicle for CDL holders?

For CDL holders, this can lead to severe repercussions, including:

• License suspension: Loss of CDL for at least 12 months
• Fines: Fines ranging from $500 to $5,000.
• Jail time: Sentences can approach six months

If you have two or more serious traffic offenses, including DUI, on your record, a new DUI could lead to the permanent loss of your CDL.

Can you get a DUI on a bike?

DUI laws typically apply to motor vehicles. However, riding a bicycle while impaired can still result in a DUI charge in Pennsylvania. The penalties may vary, but it is important to understand that operating any vehicle, including a bicycle, while impaired can lead to legal consequences.

Penalties And Defenses For Serious DUI Offenses

Thompson Law defends clients against a wide range of DUI charges, including first-offense, second-offense, third-offense and more serious offenses involving injury or death. If you have been charged with felony DUI or homicide by DUI, you will need a lawyer on your side who is not afraid to fight aggressively for your rights.

Get An Experienced Scranton DUI Defense Lawyer

Mr. Thompson has 19 years of experience and is highly knowledgeable about the different types of defenses that are effective in Lackawanna County. This may include looking into the breathalyzer results, whether you were given your Miranda rights, and whether the law enforcement official had a legal reason to pull you over.