Being charged with a third DUI in Adams County is a serious offense with escalating penalties that can impact your future. It’s important to understand these penalties to prepare an effective defense.
Penalties for a Third DUI in Adams County
In Pennsylvania, DUI penalties escalate with each subsequent offense. A third DUI conviction in Adams County comes with severe legal consequences, which vary depending on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of the offense, whether you refused chemical testing, and other aggravating factors such as the presence of minors or injuries. Below are the possible penalties based on BAC levels:
- 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
Repeat offenders also face mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device for at least one year, along with other long-term restrictions.
Beyond Legal Penalties: The Collateral Consequences
A third DUI conviction can have long-lasting effects beyond the courtroom. The collateral consequences may include:
- Difficulty maintaining or securing employment due to a criminal record.
- Higher auto insurance premiums or the risk of policy cancellation.
- Strained family or community relationships due to the stigma of a DUI conviction.
- Challenges in renewing or obtaining professional licenses, impacting certain careers.
Because these penalties and consequences are so severe, it’s essential to act quickly and consult an experienced DUI defense attorney to protect your rights.
Why You Need a Skilled DUI Attorney
A third DUI charge is complex, but a seasoned DUI defense attorney can make a significant difference in your case. At The McShane Firm, we offer aggressive legal defense tailored to your situation, including:
- Investigating your arrest for any violations of your rights or improper procedures by law enforcement.
- Challenging the reliability of the breath, blood, or field sobriety tests used to charge you.
- Exploring potential defenses such as improper traffic stops, faulty testing equipment, or mishandling of evidence.
- Negotiating with the prosecution to reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Providing dedicated representation in court, fighting for your best possible outcome.
With the right legal defense, it may be possible to have charges reduced, penalties minimized, or the case dismissed altogether, depending on the circumstances.
Contact The McShane Firm for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been charged with a third DUI in Adams County, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. At The McShane Firm, we are dedicated to defending your rights and helping you navigate this difficult time. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation at (717) 657-3900 to discuss your case and explore your options for a robust 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.
