Out of State DUI

When it comes to driving under the influence (DUI), all fifty states and the Federal government treat the offense seriously. The reason behind their strict prosecution is clear – many vehicle-related fatalities are a direct result of accidents caused by drunk drivers.

If you find yourself in the unfortunate circumstance of being arrested and charged with a DUI in Pennsylvania while residing in another state, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific DUI laws of the state. It’s important to note that your DUI case will be handled in Pennsylvania since that is where the arrest took place. Similar to any other criminal charge, a DUI conviction in Pennsylvania could lead to the suspension of your driver’s license, regardless of your state of residence. In the Commonwealth, drunk driving is defined as operating a vehicle with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of over .08 percent for individuals over 21 years old. For underage individuals, any level of alcohol consumption while driving is considered driving under the influence. Being charged with a DUI in Pennsylvania when you reside in another state can complicate the process, as it may require you to return to Pennsylvania to handle your legal proceedings. Additionally, you may also have to attend a hearing in your home state.

Out of State DUI Process

It’s important to note that Pennsylvania differs from other states, as it incorporates license suspension as part of its DUI laws. Let’s explore the potential penalties for DUI offenses in Pennsylvania:

• Installation of an interlock ignition device
• Jail sentence ranging from five days to two years
• 12-month driver’s license suspension
• Fines ranging from $300 to $5,000

For first-time DUI offenders, the penalties are relatively lower. However, these penalties are increased if an accident is involved or if your BAC exceeds .10 percent.

The Impact on You in Pennsylvania from an Out of State DUI

If you’re facing an out-of-state DUI in Pennsylvania, there are important factors to consider. While your out-of-state license won’t be suspended, your driving privileges within the Commonwealth will be affected. To make matters trickier, attending hearings and defending yourself against the charges will require someone else to drive you. At Logue Law Group, our experienced Washington PA DUI attorneys are well-prepared to defend your case, regardless of where you reside. It’s crucial to note that Pennsylvania will report the outcome of your DUI conviction to your home state, potentially leading to license suspension there.

Driver’s License Compact

Let’s talk about the Driver’s License Compact. This compact promotes the exchange of information regarding traffic violations among fifty-six states, including Pennsylvania. If you reside in Tennessee, Wisconsin, Massachusetts, or Michigan, Pennsylvania’s disclosure of your conviction may result in additional penalties and restrictions imposed by these states.

I was Arrested for DUI in Pennsylvania. What do I do?

Now, if you find yourself arrested for DUI in Pennsylvania, taking immediate action is crucial. Start by retaining the services of a qualified and experienced Washington PA criminal attorney who specializes in DUI cases. They will possess comprehensive knowledge of current laws and the most effective strategies to protect your rights and secure a favorable resolution. It’s important to remember that DUI convictions in Pennsylvania can have significant consequences, regardless of your state of residence. Jail time, license suspension, and fines are common penalties, which become even more severe when the offense involves an accident caused by drunk driving or a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeding 0.10 percent.

Are you facing DUI charges in or near Washington? Don’t wait to secure legal representation – the longer you delay, the tougher it gets. Trust your Washington PA DUI attorney to gather all the necessary details and advocate effectively on your behalf. They’ll provide a comprehensive explanation of the charges, guide you through the criminal justice system, and explore available options.

At Logue Law Group, our experienced criminal defense team proudly serves Washington, PA, as well as nearby areas like West Virginia and Ohio. Act now and schedule a free initial consultation with a skilled Washington PA criminal lawyer. Contact us today at 844.PITT.DUI or reach us online.

Don’t let time slip away. Take control of your situation and book your consultation today. Your attorney will work tirelessly to secure a favorable outcome for you.