Delaware County DUI Attorneys | Best Delco DUI Lawyers
Sept. 30, 2024
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, it is vital to understand the local laws surrounding DUI offenses and to seek immediate legal counsel to protect your rights. Delaware County, known for its bustling towns such as Media, Upper Darby, Springfield, Ridley Park, and Havertown, follows Pennsylvania’s strict DUI laws. Individuals facing DUI charges in Delaware County must be aware of the serious consequences that can follow and the importance of hiring an experienced DUI attorney to navigate these legal challenges.
Pennsylvania DUI Laws in Delaware County
Pennsylvania’s DUI laws operate under a three-tiered system, with penalties increasing based on your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) at the time of arrest. The DUI tiers are as follows:
General Impairment: BAC of 0.08% to 0.099%
High BAC: BAC of 0.10% to 0.159%
Highest BAC: BAC of 0.16% or higher
Beyond alcohol-related DUIs, Pennsylvania also enforces laws for driving under the influence of controlled substances, which include both illegal drugs and certain prescription medications that impair your ability to drive. This means even if alcohol is not involved, you can still face DUI charges if impaired by other substances.
Consequences of DUI Convictions in Delaware County
The penalties for a DUI conviction in Delaware County can vary depending on factors such as your BAC level, prior offenses, and whether any aggravating circumstances were involved. Penalties typically include:
Fines: For first-time offenders, fines may range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, escalating with repeat offenses.
License Suspension: First-time offenders with higher BAC levels or those who refuse breath tests may face a 12-month license suspension, while repeat offenders could face longer suspensions.
Jail Time: Depending on the severity of your offense, you could face anywhere from 48 hours to several years in jail, particularly for the highest BAC levels or repeat offenses.
Ignition Interlock Devices: For second and subsequent offenses, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle, which prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on your breath.
Mandatory Alcohol Treatment: You may be required to attend DUI-related treatment programs or alcohol education classes as part of your sentence.
The ARD Program for First-Time Offenders
First-time DUI offenders in Delaware County may be eligible for the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program. The ARD program offers an opportunity for individuals to avoid the harshest penalties, including jail time, and potentially have the charge expunged from their record upon successful completion. The ARD program typically includes:
Probation
DUI education classes
Payment of fines and court costs
Community service
However, not everyone is eligible for ARD. For instance, if your DUI involved an accident causing injury or death, or if you have a prior criminal record, you may not qualify. An experienced DUI attorney can help you assess your eligibility and guide you through the application process.
DUI Enforcement in Delaware County
Delaware County law enforcement agencies take DUI offenses very seriously. Local police departments in towns like Haverford Township, Ridley Township, and Upper Darby frequently conduct DUI checkpoints, especially on weekends and during holidays. Major highways such as I-95, Route 1, Route 476 (Blue Route), and Route 320 are often targeted for DUI patrols due to high traffic volume. Delaware County police officers are trained to detect signs of intoxication and impaired driving, and they will not hesitate to arrest individuals suspected of DUI.
Steps to Take After a DUI Charge in Delaware County
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Delaware County, here are the critical steps you should take to protect your rights:
Seek Legal Representation: Contact a DUI attorney who understands the local laws and the Delaware County court system. An attorney can help you build a strong defense and ensure you are treated fairly throughout the legal process.
Do Not Plead Guilty Immediately: It may be tempting to plead guilty to get the case over with, but doing so could result in unnecessary penalties. A skilled DUI attorney may be able to negotiate a reduced sentence, challenge the validity of your arrest, or seek alternative sentencing options such as ARD.
Request a Hearing: In some cases, you can request a hearing to challenge your license suspension or other aspects of your case.
Gather Evidence: Document everything you remember about the circumstances of your arrest, including how field sobriety tests were administered and whether your rights were properly explained. Your attorney can use this information to identify any legal weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Why You Need a DUI Attorney in Delaware County
Hiring a qualified DUI attorney is essential for navigating the complexities of a DUI case. With a seasoned attorney on your side, you may be able to:
Challenge the Evidence: An attorney can question whether proper procedures were followed, including the legality of the traffic stop or the accuracy of breathalyzer tests.
Negotiate with Prosecutors: A skilled DUI lawyer can negotiate on your behalf, potentially reducing your charges or securing a more favorable plea deal.
Advocate for ARD: If you qualify for the ARD program, your attorney can assist you in applying and ensuring you meet all the requirements for successful completion.
Defend Your License: Losing your driving privileges can have a significant impact on your life. An attorney can help you fight to keep your license or pursue options like a limited occupational license.
Finding the Right DUI Attorney in Delaware County
Delaware County’s court system, including the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas in Media, and its Magisterial District Courts spread throughout the county, can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with the legal process. That’s why it’s essential to have a DUI attorney who knows the ins and outs of the Delaware County legal landscape. An experienced lawyer can provide you with the best chance to minimize the penalties or even avoid a conviction altogether.
At The Town Law LLC, our DUI attorneys have years of experience defending clients in Delaware County, including Upper Darby, Drexel Hill, Springfield, and Chester. We understand how stressful facing DUI charges can be, and we are here to guide you through the legal process while building a strong defense on your behalf.
DUI charges in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, are serious and can have life-altering consequences. However, with the right legal representation, you can ensure your rights are protected and potentially mitigate the penalties you face. Contact The Town Law LLC today for a free consultation to discuss your case. Our attorneys are experienced in defending individuals charged with DUI throughout Delaware County, and we are dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
Whether you're located in Media, Havertown, Ridley Park, or Glen Mills, don’t wait to seek legal counsel. Reach out to us for expert legal advice and a strong defense against your DUI charges.