A third DUI charge in Lancaster County is a serious legal issue with severe consequences. Understanding the penalties you face is the first step in mounting a strong defense.
Penalties for a Third DUI in Lancaster County
If convicted of a third DUI in Pennsylvania, especially in Lancaster County, you could be facing life-altering penalties. The exact consequences depend on various factors, such as your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of arrest, whether there were any minors in the vehicle, or if anyone was injured. Below is an outline of potential 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
For repeat offenders, the penalties increase significantly, including longer prison sentences, steeper fines, and longer periods of license suspension. Additionally, the court may require you to install an ignition interlock device at your own expense for up to one year after your license is reinstated.
Collateral Consequences
Aside from legal penalties, a third DUI conviction can also have severe collateral consequences. You could face:
- Loss of employment or difficulty finding new employment due to a criminal record.
- Increased auto insurance premiums or outright cancellation of your policy.
- Strained personal relationships and damage to your reputation within your community.
- Difficulty obtaining or renewing professional licenses.
These consequences make it crucial to take a third DUI charge seriously and seek competent legal representation as soon as possible.
How an Experienced DUI Attorney Can Help
Navigating a third DUI charge is complicated, but you don’t have to face it alone. An experienced DUI defense attorney can help by:
- Analyzing the arrest to determine if your constitutional rights were violated.
- Challenging the accuracy of field sobriety tests, breath tests, or blood tests.
- Investigating any procedural errors or misconduct by law enforcement.
- Negotiating with prosecutors to potentially reduce charges or penalties.
- Representing you in court and advocating for your best interests.
By building a strong defense, a skilled attorney may be able to get your charges reduced or even dismissed. Every case is unique, and having an attorney who knows the nuances of Pennsylvania DUI law can significantly affect the outcome of your case.
Contact The McShane Firm for a Free Consultation
At The McShane Firm, we understand that a third DUI charge can feel overwhelming. We’re committed to providing aggressive, knowledgeable, and compassionate representation to protect your rights and your future. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation at (717) 657-3900 to discuss your case and start 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.
