A Lawyer Helping You Fight The Toughest DUI/DWI Charges
If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence DUI/DWI, you need a skilled, tenacious criminal defense firm like Steven L. Breit, Attorney at Law. We bring more than 25 years of experience to each case and client, and we can help you resolve your charges in the most favorable manner available.
There are numerous factors that influence DUI/DWI charges, including repeat offenses, level of intoxication and whether an injurious or fatal accident occurred. Until recently, Pennsylvania treated most DUI/DWIs as misdemeanors, but bow, these offenses can escalate to felonies under certain circumstances. Those circumstances are briefly described below.
Felony Charges For Repeat DUI/DWI Offenses
Pennsylvania recently enacted newer and tougher laws for repeat DUI/DWI defenders, as will now face felony punishments under these conditions:
- When they are charged with a third offense in ten years
- When they are charged with a fourth offense (over any time period)
- If they are found to have a blood alcohol content of at least twice the legal limit (0.16 % or higher)
Drunk Driving Accidents Leading To Injury Or Death
Classification also depends on whether a crash occurred and anyone was injured or killed. When injury or death occurs, the DUI is almost certain to be charged as a felony. Within this classification there are three levels of severity:
- Felony DUI/DWI with injury: For minor to moderate injuries. Conviction could result in increased fines and up to six months in jail.
- Aggravated assault while under the influence: For injuries leading to long-term impairment, permanent disfigurement or possible death. This is a second-degree felony.
- Homicide while DUI/DWI: For DUI/DWI accidents in which one or more people were killed. Numerous deaths may result in numerous charges, and consequences for conviction likely include substantial prison time. This is also a second-degree felony.
While there is little room for interpretation on DUI/DWI homicide charges, an experienced attorney may be able to get the first two charges reduced, depending on the facts of the case. The sooner you contact us, the better the chance we can resolve your case favorably.
Contact Us Any Time, Day Or Night
Steven L. Breit, Attorney at Law, is based in Lancaster and serves clients throughout Central Pennsylvania. If you need legal help with a criminal matter, we are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Simply call 717-553-0494 or send us an email.