In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol carries many serious and life-altering consequences, including significant fines, time in jail, an increase in insurance premiums, the installation of an ignition interlock breathalyzer and suspension of one’s driving privileges. However, with an experienced Pennsylvania DUI defense lawyer on your side, you can wage one of several effective defenses against your charges. For more information, please read on, then contact an experienced Allegheny County DUI lawyer. Some solid defenses in Pennsylvania DUI cases include:
Proving you were not impaired
Remember, in The United States, the government has the burden of proof. Whether you opt for a bench trial or a trial by jury, the prosecution will need to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In order to poke holes in the prosecution’s case, you might raise doubts about whether:
- Law enforcement had properly calibrated testing equipment
- Law enforcement had properly administered the testing
Having the prosecution’s evidence suppressed
The judge may rule any evidence police collected, including test results and self-incriminating statements, inadmissible if the defendant convinces the judge that police:
- Stopped you without reasonable suspicion
- Arrested you without probable cause, or
- Violated your Constitutional rights
Presenting evidence of a false positive BAC test result
Research has shown that several non-alcoholic substances can generate false positive BAC test results, including:
- Certain types of dental work
- Mouth jewelry
- RFI-emitting devices
Pleading to a lesser charge
If you believe that you face a conviction at trial, you may want to plead to a different charge. Fortunately, you can plea bargain a DUI or DWI case in Pennsylvania, especially if the Commonwealth does not feel that it has sufficient evidence to satisfy the burden of proof. In rare cases, the Commonwealth may dismiss the DUI and allow you to plead to a lesser charge with less severe consequences. Please note that the court will have to approve any such resolution.
Making sure you have a sober ride home
Of course, we would not be doing our duty if we did not inform you about the most effective means of beating a DUI charge: Have a designated driver, a rideshare service, i.e. Uber or Lyft, or another safe ride alternative drive you home after a night of drinking. Thus, law enforcement never pulls you over and you never face DUI charges.
If law enforcement has already charged you with, or stopped you for, a DUI, you should not hesitate to speak with George A. Heym, Esq. as soon as possible.
Contact Our Pittsburgh DUI Lawyer
If you are facing a DUI charge, contact The Law Offices of George Heym to schedule your free initial consultation.
