Imagine being caught driving with a DUI suspended license. The consequences can be severe, including mandatory jail time, hefty fines, and extended license suspension. However, with the help of an experienced DUI attorney, you can fight these charges and potentially avoid these harsh penalties. In this blog post, we will discuss the role of traffic offense lawyers, the consequences of driving on a DUI suspended license, and strategies for fighting the charges and restoring your driving privileges.
Key Takeaways
Traffic offense lawyers can provide legal counsel to mitigate or dismiss charges.
A knowledgeable attorney is essential for a strong defense and favorable outcome in traffic cases.
Driving with a DUI suspended license can result in jail time, fines and extended suspension. An experienced lawyer can help fight the charge.
Consequences of Driving with a DUI Suspended License
Severe consequences can result from driving on a DUI suspended license in Pennsylvania., including mandatory jail time, fines, and extended license suspension. The consequences can be significant if the driver has a blood alcohol concentration of .02 percent or higher. Additionally, having any controlled substances in the system, or refusing to submit to chemical testing on suspension will make matters worse–especially when dealing with DUI related cases..
A 1543(b)(1) conviction for a driver whose license is under revocation can extend the suspension period to a duration of two years, which can be particularly severe for a third offense. The fine for 1543(b)(1) violations is $500 in addition to court fees.
First Offense Penalties
For a first-time offense of driving with a DUI suspended license, the consequences include a summary offense, a fine of up to $500, and a jail sentence of between 60 and 90 days. Defendants in Pennsylvania are required to serve a jail sentence if convicted, even for a first offense. This is an inflexible law of the state..
The penalties for a first-time offense of driving with a DUI suspended license in other states such as California may include a fine of up to $1,000, a jail sentence of up to 6 months, and a license suspension for 6 or 10 months.
In New York, the consequences can include up to 30 days in jail and a fine ranging from $200 to $500, classified as a third-degree misdemeanor charge. It is advisable to seek a free legal consultation with a traffic offense lawyer to understand your options.
Repeat Offender Penalties
Repeat offenders caught driving with a DUI suspended license face increased penalties, including lengthier prison terms and more significant monetary penalties. A second violation of 1543(b)(1.1) is classified as a misdemeanor of the third degree (M3), requiring the individual to pay a fine of $2,500 and serve a minimum of six months in prison.
For a third or subsequent violation of 1543(b)(1.1), the offender is required to pay a fine of $5,000 and undergo imprisonment for a minimum of two years. The court may grant permission to an appropriate defendant to take part in the Intensive Probation Program. If they meet the eligibility criteria, they can be served their punishment while on house arrest with electronic monitoring.
Strategies for Fighting DUI Suspended License Charges
Strategies such as contesting the initial DUI conviction and scrutinizing the circumstances of the traffic stop are employed by traffic offense lawyers to fight DUI suspended license charges. There are several legal grounds for challenging an initial DUI conviction, such as:
Mistakes or errors made in the underlying DUI case
Admissibility of evidence
Constitutional rights violations
Lack of probable cause
Inaccurate test results
A legal defense against a DUI suspended license charge may also be provided by the circumstances of the traffic stop. by contesting the validity of the stop. If the police officer did not have sufficient cause to initiate the stop, it could be argued that the stop was unlawful, and any evidence obtained thereafter should be excluded.
Investigating the Nature of the Suspension
An attorney’s crucial step in defending a DUI suspended license charge is to investigate whether the suspension is indeed DUI-related. This is vital because the defense strategies and potential penalties can significantly differ based on the nature of the suspension. Here are some legal arguments and investigative steps an attorney might employ:
Verifying the validity of the initial suspension: An attorney needs to ascertain whether the suspension was due to a DUI conviction. If the suspension was for a non-DUI related reason, the defense strategy would be different.
Asserting rights violation: The attorney could argue that the defendant’s rights were infringed upon during the arrest or investigation process leading to the DUI conviction.
Engaging a traffic offense lawyer for specific advice tailored to your case is essential. They can guide you through the process of appealing a DUI conviction, which typically involves filing a notice of appeal within a certain timeframe, usually within 30 days of the conviction. The case will then be reviewed by a higher court for any legal errors or issues with the conviction itself.
Examining the Circumstances of the Traffic Stop
Potential violations may be revealed by analyzing the circumstances of the traffic stop. Some examples of rights violations or procedural errors that can be utilized in your defense include:
Not conducting a proper DUI investigation
Performing unlawful field sobriety tests
Waiting too long to administer a BAC test
Violating search and seizure rights
Lacking reasonable suspicion for the investigative stop
Failing to obtain a drinking pattern
Failing to wait for a reasonable time before conducting a BAC test
Not documenting the traffic stop
These procedural errors can have a considerable effect on dui charges.
A lawyer can challenge the legality of the traffic stop or the actions of the police officer in order to provide a defense against a DUI suspended license charge. If the lawyer can demonstrate that the traffic stop was conducted without probable cause or that the officer violated the defendant’s constitutional rights during the stop, it may weaken the prosecution’s case.
Restoring Your Driver’s License after a DUI Suspension
Completing the suspension period is involved in the process of restoring your driver’s license after a DUI suspension. The steps to restore your license include:
Requesting a restoration requirements letter
Fulfilling the requirements outlined in the letter
Providing necessary documentation
Submitting the documentation to the DMV or licensing agency
Paying any applicable fees
Waiting for processing
Eventually receiving your restored license
The eligibility requirements for restoring a driver’s license after a DUI suspension may vary depending on the state. It is advised to consult with the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or relevant authorities for specific requirements.
Meeting Eligibility Requirements
Meeting eligibility requirements is a must to restore your driver’s license after a DUI suspension., such as fulfilling mandated courses and remitting requisite fees. The courses necessary for restoring a driver’s license after a DUI suspension may differ depending on the state, so it is essential to consult with the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or a traffic offense lawyer for the precise requirements in your jurisdiction.
The cost of the mandated courses for license restoration following a DUI suspension can differ based on the state. In Pennsylvania, the restoration fees are usually $79. However, the cost may be different in other states. Consult with your local DMV for detailed information on the cost of the mandated courses in your state.
Handling Additional Legal Issues
Additional legal issues may be faced during the license restoration process., such as addressing extant warrants or unpaid fines. Failing to pay fines associated with DUI offenses may involve license suspension, additional penalties, and collection actions.
Having outstanding warrants can significantly impede the process of driver’s license restoration. Generally, if there is an active arrest warrant, the license will not be renewed or reinstated until the warrant is addressed. DMV regulations in numerous states necessitate the resolution of any outstanding warrants before issuing or renewing a driver’s license. Consequently, it is essential to address any warrants before attempting to restore one’s driver’s license.
Why Choose The Shelton Firm for Traffic Offense Cases?
With The Shelton Firm, navigating the legal system becomes significantly smoother. Our expertise and experience help you understand your rights, develop a powerful defense, and negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or sanctions.
Driving Under Suspension 1543(A) in Pennsylvania
Driving under suspension in Pennsylvania is a serious offense that can result in hefty fines and further suspension of your driving privileges. Under section 1543(A) of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle on public roads while your license is suspended or revoked.
The offenses that can lead to a 1543(A) violation include:
Accumulation of too many driving points
Failure to respond to a citation
Failure to pay fines or court costs
Conviction for a serious traffic offense
Conviction for driving under the influence (DUI)
A 1543(A) violation is typically considered a summary offense, punishable by a $200 fine for a first offense. However, if the driver has been suspended due to a DUI or refusal to submit to chemical testing, the penalties increase significantly, including a mandatory jail sentence and higher fines.
It is crucial to understand that a 1543(A) violation is a criminal charge that goes beyond a simple traffic ticket. It can lead to a criminal record and have long-term consequences, affecting your employment prospects, insurance rates, and even your personal freedom.
For more information about 1543(a) Driving under suspension offenses Click here.
How a Traffic Offense Lawyer Can Help You
Fighting a DUI suspended license charge can be facilitated with the help of an experienced dui attorney. They can negotiate with prosecutors, challenge the evidence and procedures used in the case, and work to reach a settlement with the prosecutor instead of going to trial. To find the right lawyer for your case, consider factors such as experience, expertise, reputation, communication, resources, and cost.
The potential outcomes of a DUI case with the assistance of a traffic offense lawyer may include:
Plea agreements for reduced charges and sentences
Challenging the traffic stop or questioning the evidence
Having the charges reduced or dismissed
Potentially facing serious fines, loss of driving license, or imprisonment.
Negotiating with Prosecutors
The potential reduction or dismissal of charges can be negotiated by traffic offense lawyers with prosecutors, resulting in more lenient penalties. Common strategies may include:
Plea bargaining
Highlighting weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
Introducing mitigating factors
Negotiating for alternative sentencing
Constructing a robust defense
The success rate of traffic offense lawyers in reducing or dismissing charges varies depending on the circumstances and the expertise of the defense lawyer. It is essential to conduct research and select a reliable lawyer with a successful history in dealing with traffic offenses.
Representing You in Court
Numerous benefits are offered when a traffic offense lawyer represents you in court. They can:
Offer legal knowledge and advice
Investigate the evidence against the defendant
Detect any procedural errors or infringements of the defendant’s rights
Negotiate with the prosecutor for a lesser charge or sentence
Provide a robust defense
Discredit the witnesses.
Ultimately, their aim is to ensure the best possible outcome for the defendant, which could include having the charges dropped, achieving a not guilty verdict, or reducing the penalties imposed by the court.
The Shelton Firm: Your Skilled Legal Partner
The prospects of obtaining a desirable result in your case are amplified by the presence of our skilled attorneys. Their competence includes:
Examining the evidence
Recognizing potential legal issues
Formulating a robust defense strategy
Engaging in negotiations with the prosecution
Providing representation in court
Understand your rights
Build a robust defense
Negotiate for reduced charges or sanctions
Detect any potential inaccuracies or discrepancies in the evidence against you and dispute them in court
By leveraging these skills, The Shelton Firm can help you avoid license suspensions, including additional license suspension, and secure a favorable outcome.Summary
In conclusion, driving with a DUI suspended license can have severe consequences, but with the help of an experienced DUI attorney, you can fight these charges and potentially avoid jail time and hefty fines. This blog post has discussed the role of traffic offense lawyers, the consequences of driving on a DUI suspended license, strategies for fighting the charges, and how to restore your driving privileges after a DUI suspension. By understanding your rights and seeking the assistance of a skilled attorney, you can navigate the complex legal system and work towards a favorable outcome in your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can i get my license back after DUI Suspension?
To get your license back after a DUI Suspension, you will need to go through a process that includes completing your suspension period, fulfilling any court-ordered requirements such as DUI school or treatment programs, paying fines and fees, and possibly installing an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
What happens if you get caught driving on a DUI suspended license in PA?
If you are caught driving on a DUI suspended license in Pennsylvania, you face a mandatory minimum of 60 days in jail and a $500 fine for the first offense. Subsequent offenses may result in up to two years in jail and a $5,000 fine.
What is an ignition interlock License?
An ignition interlock license is a special type of license issued to individuals who have been convicted of a DUI offense. A device is installed in your vehicle and requires the driver to provide a breath sample before the engine starts.
For more info on the Ignition Interlock License Click Here.
Am I eligible for an ignition interlock license?
In Pennsylvania, an individual becomes eligible for an ignition interlock license if they have been convicted of a DUI offense. The device is mandatory for repeat offenders.
Can I get House Arrest instead of Mandatory Jail Time?
Yes, in some cases, it is possible to get house arrest instead of mandatory jail time for driving with a DUI suspended license. This largely depends on the specifics of your case, your criminal history, and the discretion of the court. An experienced traffic offense lawyer can help argue for house arrest
Additional Information
Need some additonal information before you call a DUI Lawyer in Lancaster Pa? Get it below. Call us with any questions.
