Like with many criminal offenses, the consequences of a driving under the influence (DUI) arrest only get more serious as the number of convictions increases. For a third-time DUI in Cranberry Township, a guilty verdict could mean years in jail, hefty fines, and a lifetime of challenges that result from having a criminal record.
Thankfully, you have the right to fight back against these charges. You also do not have to do it alone. If you have been charged with a DUI, our dedicated DUI defense attorneys could help you understand your legal options. Contact us today to schedule your initial case evaluation.
It is important to note that under state law, you could have 2 prior DUI convictions, only for your next arrest to not count as a third-time offense. Pennsylvania treats a DUI as a third offense only when you have 2 prior DUI convictions within the past 10 years. This so-called “lookback period” begins from the date of each prior conviction, not from the arrest. If your current charge falls within that 10-year window, it will be prosecuted as a third offense, even if the prior cases happened years apart.
It is critical to understand that your prior conviction could mean a verdict at trial, a guilty plea, or even the outcome of a diversionary program for first-time offenders. Our lawyers in Cranberry Township could review your record and advise you on whether your DUI qualifies as a third offense.
Penalties for a third DUI offense in the state are severe and often include mandatory jail time, higher fines, and longer license suspensions. The exact consequences depend on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), or other factors, including whether drugs were in your system.
In general, a third offense could result in a jail term between 10 days and 2 years. You can also face a fine of as much as $5,000 and a 1-year suspension of your driving privileges. If your BAC is more than double the legal limit or you are accused of driving while impaired by drugs, you could face a minimum 90-day jail term and a maximum sentence of 5 years. However, the consequences of a third DUI offense in Cranberry Township only come into effect if you are convicted.
A DUI charge for the third time in Cranberry Township does not mean you are out of options. The prosecution still must prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt, and you have several strategies available to you. Some examples include the following.
Police must have reasonable suspicion to stop you. If the officer stops you without a valid reason, it may be unlawful. When a stop is illegal, any evidence they collect may be inadmissible at trial. In some cases, this might leave the prosecutors with no other option but to dismiss your case.
Law enforcement officers must follow strict procedures when collecting or testing blood, breath, or urine samples. Failure to follow these guidelines can result in false positives and inaccurate results.
The prosecution must show that you were impaired at the time you were driving. The presence of alcohol or drugs alone is not always enough. They might not be able to prove what was in your system. You may fight these charges by arguing that you were never impaired to begin with.
If you are facing a third-time DUI in Cranberry Township, you have the right to a strong defense. All of our lawyers are former prosecutors and, therefore, uniquely and well-equipped to defend criminal charges. Our team could help you achieve the best possible outcome. Call us today to learn more.