Bucks County DUI Attorneys | Best DUI Attorneys in Bucks County
Sept. 30, 2024
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, it’s critical to understand the local DUI laws and the importance of securing the right legal representation. Bucks County, known for its picturesque towns like Doylestown, Newtown, Quakertown, and Levittown, follows Pennsylvania’s stringent DUI laws. If you are facing DUI charges in Bucks County, seeking legal counsel from a qualified attorney could significantly influence the outcome of your case. This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding DUI laws in Bucks County and what steps you should take if you’re facing charges.
DUI Laws in Bucks County, PA
Pennsylvania law is firm when it comes to DUI offenses. Like the rest of the state, Bucks County adheres to a three-tiered system of DUI offenses, depending on your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) at the time of the arrest. The three tiers are:
General Impairment: BAC of 0.08% to 0.099%
High BAC: BAC of 0.10% to 0.159%
Highest BAC: BAC of 0.16% and higher
It’s important to note that Pennsylvania also enforces DUI laws for driving under the influence of controlled substances. Whether it’s illegal drugs, prescription medication, or over-the-counter drugs that impair your ability to drive, you can face DUI charges even if alcohol is not involved.
Penalties for DUI in Bucks County
The penalties for a DUI conviction in Bucks County are severe and escalate depending on your BAC level and whether you’ve had previous offenses. The potential consequences of a DUI conviction include:
Fines: These can range from a few hundred dollars for first-time offenders to thousands of dollars for repeat offenders.
License Suspension: First-time offenders with a high BAC can face a license suspension for up to one year, while repeat offenders may face longer suspensions.
Jail Time: Depending on the severity of the offense, jail time can range from 48 hours for a first-time offender with a low BAC to up to five years for repeat offenders or those with the highest BAC.
Ignition Interlock Device: In certain cases, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle, especially if it is a second or third offense.
Mandatory Alcohol Education: Offenders will be required to attend alcohol highway safety school, and in some cases, alcohol treatment programs.
ARD Program in Bucks County for First-Time Offenders
For first-time DUI offenders in Bucks County, the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program offers a chance to avoid jail time and have the charge expunged from your record upon successful completion. The ARD program includes:
Probation
Attendance at DUI classes
Payment of fines and court costs
Community service
However, not everyone is eligible for ARD. The program is often unavailable to individuals with prior criminal records or those involved in accidents that resulted in serious injury. It’s important to consult with a DUI attorney who can help you determine your eligibility for ARD and guide you through the process.
Why You Need a DUI Attorney in Bucks County
The consequences of a DUI conviction can be life-changing, from losing your driving privileges to facing jail time and significant fines. That’s why hiring an experienced DUI attorney in Bucks County is essential. A qualified attorney will have a deep understanding of local laws, the court system, and the nuances of DUI cases. An attorney can:
Evaluate the circumstances of your arrest: There may be issues with how the field sobriety test or breathalyzer was administered, which could weaken the prosecution's case.
Negotiate with the prosecution: An attorney may be able to negotiate a plea deal or reduce the charges against you.
Guide you through the ARD process: If you're eligible, an attorney can help you apply for ARD and ensure you comply with the program's requirements.
DUI Enforcement in Bucks County
Bucks County police officers take DUI offenses very seriously, and you will find frequent DUI checkpoints, especially during holidays and weekends in high-traffic areas such as Route 611, Route 202, Route 309, and Route 1. Local law enforcement agencies, including the Bucks County Sheriff’s Office and local police departments in Bensalem, Bristol, and Doylestown, are proactive in enforcing DUI laws.
What to Do After a DUI Charge in Bucks County
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Bucks County, it’s essential to act quickly to protect your rights. Here are the steps you should take:
Do not plead guilty immediately: Before pleading guilty, consult with an attorney who can help you explore your options and defend your case.
Request a hearing: You may have the opportunity to request a hearing to challenge your license suspension or the validity of the arrest.
Gather evidence: Take note of everything that happened during your arrest, including whether you were read your Miranda rights and whether proper procedures were followed during sobriety tests.
Finding the Right DUI Attorney in Bucks County
Choosing the right DUI attorney is critical to ensuring the best possible outcome in your case. An attorney who is familiar with the Bucks County court system, local judges, and prosecutors can provide you with valuable insight and strategies to defend against your DUI charges.
At The Town Law LLC, we have extensive experience representing clients charged with DUI in Bucks County, including Newtown, Levittown, and Yardley. Our attorneys are skilled in defending clients facing both first-time and repeat DUI offenses. We will work with you to understand the specifics of your case and build a strong defense on your behalf. Whether you are facing jail time, license suspension, or substantial fines, our team is here to provide expert legal counsel and fight for your rights.
If you are facing DUI charges in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, the consequences can be severe. However, with the right legal representation, you can protect your rights and minimize the impact of these charges on your life. Contact The Town Law LLC today for a free consultation. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of Bucks County DUI laws and are committed to helping you navigate the legal process with confidence.
Whether you're in Doylestown, Bensalem, or Perkasie, don’t face DUI charges alone—reach out to our experienced team for the legal support you need.