Understanding Aggravated DUI Charges

Navigating the complexities of DUI laws, especially in Pennsylvania, can be daunting. Whether you’re facing a General Impairment charge or more severe accusations, understanding your situation is crucial.

Types of DUI Charges in Pennsylvania

General Impairment DUI

• Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher.
• Typically considered a standard DUI charge.

Aggravated DUI

• Involves specific aggravating factors which vary from state to state.
• Examples include having children in the car, high BAC levels, or causing an accident with injuries.

Third Level DUI Charges

• Pennsylvania adds another layer of complexity with this level, taking into account additional aggravating factors.

Aggravating Factors

Identifying these factors is key to understanding potential penalties:

1. High Blood Alcohol Concentration

• High BAC Charges

 BAC of .10% or higher.

•  Highest BAC Charges

 BAC of .16% or higher.

 Strategies for Defense:

 Kittanning criminal attorneys may challenge the reliability of breathalyzer tests, validity of traffic stops, and field sobriety tests.

2. Previous Convictions

• Each prior conviction intensifies current penalties.
• Legal avenues may exist to dismiss, expunge, or downgrade previous offenses.

3. Presence of Children

• Having children under 14 in the vehicle at the time of arrest escalates charges.

4. Accident-Related Injuries

• Accidents causing injuries while DUI can lead to severe punishments.

The Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) Program

Eligibility Criteria:

• First-time offense within the last decade.
• No serious injuries or deaths, except to the offender.
• No passengers under 14 years old.

Successful completion can lead to expungement of the conviction, though eligibility requirements must be strictly met.

Consequences of a High or Highest BAC DUI

Facing a Highest BAC offense (.16% or higher) within the last decade can result in:

• Legal Penalties:
• Ungraded misdemeanor.
• Potential jail time up to six months.
•  License and Treatment Requirements:
• 12-month driver’s license suspension.
• Mandatory drug and alcohol assessment with treatment.
•  Financial Penalties:
• Fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.
•  Educational Mandates:
• Completion of Alcohol Highway Safety School.

Why You Need Legal Expertise

To effectively challenge DUI charges, particularly those with aggravating factors, seeking guidance from an experienced Kittanning DUI attorney is crucial. They can help you understand your charges and mount a strong defense. 

For more personalized assistance, consider reaching out to Logue Law Group’s team of seasoned Kittanning criminal attorneys who specialize in DUI cases. They are prepared to assist you every step of the way. Contact us now to schedule a free initial consultation with a skilled  Kittanning DUI lawyer from Logue Law Group. Call us at 844.PITT.DUI or visit our website.