Work With an Experienced DUI Attorney in York, PA

At MPL Law, we have an extensive track record of achieving successful outcomes for our clients. You’ll work with a knowledgeable DUI lawyer who understands how to navigate the legal process and develop a carefully crafted strategy. Depending on your circumstances, this approach could entail negotiating a plea deal, applying for a first-time offender’s program or going to trial.

Regardless of your situation, your MPL Law attorney will become a trusted ally who always has your best interests in mind. You’ll have an advocate on your side to guide you through the process.

Why Do You Need a DUI Attorney in Pennsylvania?

Most people do not become fully aware of the nuances and complexities of the DUI laws in Pennsylvania until an arrest forces them into the legal system. For instance, did you know that being arrested for driving under the influence of marijuana is treated the same as an alcohol-related DUI? Although attitudes toward marijuana use in PA and around the country are changing, driving a vehicle after using the drug can have similar short- and long-term consequences.

A DUI attorney can help you understand the laws and how they impact your unique situation.

The Impact of Applied Consent Laws

Some individuals do not realize that Pennsylvania has implied consent laws. If a law enforcement officer pulls you over and has a reasonable suspicion that you’re driving under the influence, you implicitly agree to have your blood or urine tested for alcohol or drugs. If you refuse, you’ll automatically lose your license for a year for a first offense. Some triggers that may cause an officer to believe you are under the influence include:

• Accelerating and decelerating without cause
• Hitting or scraping other cars or objects
• Breaking traffic laws or driving erratically
• Difficulty operating the vehicle and following directions properly
• Slurred speech, lack of understanding and smell of alcohol

You have the right to request additional testing beyond those administered by the arresting officer. However, any positive results can serve as evidence against you in court.

Understanding Blood Alcohol Concentration

Blood alcohol concentration, also called blood alcohol content (BAC), plays a crucial role in the nature of the charges and the severity of the penalties if you’re convicted of DUI. This reading indicates the percentage of alcohol in an individual’s bloodstream.

A driver must have a minimum BAC of .08 to be considered operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol in Pennsylvania. The penalties increase with higher readings — a BAC of .16 or more can result in a one-year license suspension and a fine of up to $5,000, even for a first-time offense.

For individuals under 21, Pennsylvania’s Zero Tolerance Law means driving with any amount of alcohol in their system can face significant consequences. An underage driver with a 0.2 BAC or higher could face license suspension, a jail sentence and fines.

Roadside testing via a device called a Breathalyzer conducted by the arresting officer primarily determines the initial BAC reading. The officer may also take the driver to a medical facility to have blood drawn for testing, which typically results in higher accuracy.

However, the flawed nature of the process sometimes produces unreliable results. Your DUI attorney in York, PA, can help you explore your testing circumstances and uncover potential errors that work in your favor.

DUI-Related Accidents and Injuries

A DUI incident can involve a crash that causes injuries to passengers in the driver’s vehicle or the occupants of another vehicle. In these situations, prosecutors can pursue enhanced charges, even if the injuries are not severe. The penalties can escalate further if the accident results in serious injury or death.

Hiring a capable DUI lawyer is crucial in these situations because so much is on the line. A conviction could result in up to 10 years or more in prison and substantial financial penalties. An attorney can prepare and implement an effective defense that minimizes the impact or possibly gets the charges reduced or cleared before going to trial.

Tailored Defense Strategies for Various DUI Scenarios

Your MPL Law attorney will rely on years of experience and extensive knowledge of the legal system to help prevent a DUI charge from ruining your life. No two situations are alike — you’ll have a targeted defense that addresses the nuances of your case and increases the likelihood of a favorable result.

It’s also important to understand that the jurisdiction where the incident occurred can affect your case. Although our practice is headquartered in York, PA, we represent clients in York, Adams, Cumberland and Lancaster Counties. Our familiarity with the court proceedings and the attitudes toward DUI in each of these areas allow us to know what to expect and prepare accordingly.

You might consider defending yourself against a DUI charge. While there is no requirement in Pennsylvania to hire a DUI lawyer, attempting to represent yourself is risky. You might also be tempted to plead guilty to resolve the issue quickly, but this might not be the most effective legal tactic for your circumstances.

Hiring the best DUI attorney ensures you’re covering all the bases and doing everything possible to protect your legal rights. You’ll also avoid costly mistakes that could make your situation worse.