2nd DUI

Second DUI Charges Defense, Best DUI Attorney

When those flashing lights appear in your rearview mirror, dread consumes you and thoughts of “if only…” race through your mind. In that moment, the best course of action is to pull over, comply with the officers’ instructions, and minimize conversation, as anything you say can and will be used against you. After that, it’s crucial to contact a skilled Pittsburgh criminal defense attorney to assist you.

Keep in mind that the arresting officers must adhere to proper protocols and can make errors that can work in your favor. They may attribute glassy eyes, slurred speech, or erratic driving to suspected DUI, but these symptoms could be due to a medical condition or exhaustion. By hiring the finest Pittsburgh DUI attorney within your budget, you can establish such facts in court.

Moreover, the police might not have correctly calibrated the device used to measure your breath alcohol content, or they may have mishandled the test. Alternatively, the DUI checkpoint where you were stopped may fail to meet adequate standards. Your Pittsburgh criminal attorney can utilize any of these circumstances to challenge your DUI charges. Following your arrest, you will be provided with a copy of the criminal complaint against you. Share this document with your Pittsburgh criminal attorney so they can fully understand the charges you are facing.

Having a prior DUI charge on your record makes a robust second DUI defense even more crucial. A second DUI offense with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) ranging from .08 percent to .099 percent could result in fines ranging from $300 to $2,500, a one-year license suspension, and potential jail time of 5 days to 6 months. If your BAC falls between .1 and .159, you may face 30 days to 6 months in jail, fines ranging from $750 to $5,000, and a one-year license suspension. A BAC of .16 or higher could lead to 90 days to 5 years imprisonment, a minimum $1,500 fine, and an 18-month license suspension. Similar to first-time offenders, second DUI convictions require mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device at your expense, as well as potential enrollment in alcohol highway safety school.

If this is your second DUI arrest within a ten-year period, expect even harsher consequences. The penalties will likely double, as the court will assume that you deliberately disregarded the law or simply did not receive a sufficiently severe punishment the first time around.

Experiencing a second DUI can result in a range of negative repercussions. These include increased insurance premiums, mandatory participation in a treatment program, establishment of a criminal record, and more severe penalties in cases involving injury, death, or the presence of minors in the vehicle.

Moreover, the consequences can extend beyond the legal realm and impact various aspects of your life. Professional drivers may face employment challenges, and even non-commercial drivers may find themselves without transportation and consequently jobless. This domino effect can lead to the loss of your home or apartment, while your reputation takes a hit as well.

Fortunately, by retaining the services of a top-notch Pittsburgh DUI attorney, you provide yourself with an opportunity to return to a normal life. A knowledgeable attorney specializing in DUI cases can craft a strong defense strategy to safeguard your rights and interests.

For the best outcome, it is vital that you furnish your attorney with all the details surrounding your arrest. Even seemingly minor aspects can have a significant impact on your defense. Remember, your attorney can only work with the information you provide. Make it easier for both of you by sharing everything.

At the Logue Criminal Defense team, we proudly serve Pittsburgh, and surrounding areas, including Eastern Ohio and West Virginia. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation with one of our experienced Pittsburgh DUI lawyers. Call us at (844) PITT-DUI or reach out to us online. We are here to help.