First-Offense DUI Attorney In Scranton

Have you been charged with your first drunk driving offense? If so, contact Thompson Law in Lackawanna County to work with experienced DUI defense attorney William D. Thompson. He believes that the accused in these cases deserve to have their driving record presented to the court and that every possible avenue toward a reduction or dismissal of their charge should be aggressively explored.

Penalties For A First-Time DUI Conviction

Unlike some other states, Pennsylvania has a hierarchy to classifying its DUI charges. Any driver who is found to have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% can be charged with drunk driving, but those found with higher BAC readings can subject to harsher penalties.

Penalties for a DUI involving a BAC of .08% to .099% can include:

• Fines up to $300
• Six months of probation
• Alcohol safety school and substance abuse treatment

Penalties for a DUI involving a BAC of .10% to .159% can include:

• One-year license suspension
• Maximum of six months in jail (minimum of 48 hours)
• Maximum of $5,000 in fines (minimum of $500)
• Alcohol safety school and substance abuse treatment

Penalties for a DUI involving a BAC of over .16% can include:

• One-year license suspension
• Maximum of six months in jail (minimum of 72 hours)
• Maximum of $5,000 in fines (minimum of $1,000)
• Alcohol safety school and substance abuse treatment

Note that drivers who are found to be impaired due to controlled substances automatically fall into the most severe of these categories (BAC of .16% and higher). If you or a loved one has been charged, then a proactive approach to their defense is available. Scranton DUI attorney William D. Thompson is ready to assess your case and pursue every consideration available to you.

Frequently Asked Questions About First-Time DUIs In Scranton

A first DUI can affect your license, record and future in more than one way. The questions below explain common issues that come up after a first arrest in Scranton.

How does a first-time DUI charge impact commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders in Pennsylvania?

A first-time DUI can put a CDL at risk, even if you were not driving a commercial vehicle. A DUI conviction triggers a one-year CDL disqualification under federal law, even in your personal vehicle and may affect your job. A CDL holder should act quickly because the stakes often go beyond the normal penalties for a first offense.

What happens if I had a minor in the car at the time of my first DUI arrest?

A DUI with a minor in the car can lead to more serious consequences. The charge becomes a higher grade with mandatory minimums and can bring added penalties and family court concerns. The presence of a child can also make the facts of the case more sensitive and increase the need for careful review.

Can an out-of-state driver charged with a first DUI in Pennsylvania complete ARD probation in their home state?

Sometimes, but not always. The court may allow parts of ARD supervision to happen outside Pennsylvania, but the terms depend on the case and the other state. You should confirm the rules early because travel, reporting and alcohol treatment requirements can vary.

How long does a first-time DUI arrest stay on my criminal background check if I am not accepted into ARD?

A DUI arrest can remain visible on background checks indefinitely if you do not enter ARD or obtain expungement. If the case ends in a conviction, it may stay on your record unless you later qualify for limited relief. An arrest alone can still create problems for jobs, housing and licensing.

What is the difference between an ignition interlock license and an occupational limited license (OLL) for a first offense?

An ignition interlock license lets you drive only if your vehicle has a breath-testing device installed. An occupational limited license is rarely available for DUI cases under current law. Your option depends on your BAC level, suspension period and eligibility for ignition interlock.

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