Being charged with a third DUI in Dauphin County is a serious matter with severe consequences. The penalties for a third DUI offense can vary depending on the level of impairment, ranging from General Impairment to Highest Impairment.
Penalties for a Third DUI in Dauphin County
A third DUI conviction in Pennsylvania, especially in Dauphin County, comes with harsh penalties. The exact consequences depend on factors like your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of arrest, as well as aggravating factors like the presence of minors in the vehicle or injuries caused. Here’s an outline of possible penalties based on your BAC:
- General Impairment: BAC between .08% and .099%
- Misdemeanor of the Second Degree
- 10 days to 2 years in prison
- Fines between $500 and $5,000
- 12-month license suspension
- High Impairment: BAC between .10% and .159%
- Misdemeanor of the First Degree
- 90 days to 5 years in prison
- Fines between $1,500 and $10,000
- 18-month license suspension
- Highest Impairment: BAC of .16% or higher
- Felony of the Third Degree
- 1 year to 7 years in prison
- Fines up to $15,000
- 18-month license suspension
Additionally, repeat offenders are typically required to install an ignition interlock device for at least one year upon license reinstatement. These penalties can drastically affect your life, making it critical to mount a strong defense.
Collateral Consequences of a Third DUI Conviction
In addition to the legal penalties, a third DUI conviction can have significant collateral consequences, including:
- Challenges securing or maintaining employment due to a criminal record.
- Increased auto insurance premiums or cancellation of your policy.
- Strained relationships with family and friends, as well as damage to your reputation in the community.
- Difficulty obtaining or renewing professional licenses, potentially impacting your career.
The stakes are high, so it’s important to work with a skilled attorney to minimize the impact on your life.
How an Experienced DUI Attorney Can Help
A third DUI charge requires an aggressive and well-planned defense. An experienced attorney at The McShane Firm can help by:
- Investigating your arrest to determine if your rights were violated or if there were any procedural errors.
- Challenging the reliability of field sobriety, breath, or blood test results.
- Reviewing evidence for inconsistencies or improper handling by law enforcement.
- Negotiating with prosecutors to potentially reduce your charges or penalties.
- Defending you in court with a strategic, comprehensive approach focused on achieving the best possible outcome.
With the right legal defense, it may be possible to have your charges reduced or, in some cases, dismissed. Every case is unique, and having a DUI attorney who understands the complexities of Pennsylvania DUI law can make all the difference.
Contact The McShane Firm for a Free Consultation
If you are facing a third DUI charge in Dauphin County, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. At The McShane Firm, we are dedicated to providing aggressive, knowledgeable defense to protect your rights and your future. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation at (717) 657-3900 to discuss your case and begin building your defense.
Our Clients are entitled to a Bill of Rights which states:
- Our clients have the right to expect, we will be proactive in communication. You will hear it from us first. We will return all phone calls, texts and emails promptly.
- Our clients have the right to expect plain speaking, straight shooting. No B. S.
- Our clients have the right to expect us to do it right the first time, every time.
- Our clients have the right to expect us to be on time and professionally prepared for all court appearances, and all meetings.
- Our clients have the right to expect that they will be fully informed at all times.
This is our promise to you. Call today to get us on your side: (717) 657-3900.
