At times, we have all exercised poor judgment. Unfortunately, some of those lapses in judgment are also illegal, and if they result in a conviction, they can lead to hefty penalties. If you’ve been pulled over for suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs, please read on, then contact an experienced Pittsburgh drug DUI lawyer to learn more about what happens if you’re caught drugged driving in Pennsylvania.
What happens if you’re caught drugged driving in Pennsylvania?
The consequences for drugged driving in Pennsylvania depend on how many times, if any, you’ve been convicted for this offense in the past. The penalties are as follows:
First offense:
- Misdemeanor conviction
- 3 days to 6 months in jail
- $1,000 to $5,000 fine
- Attendance in alcohol highway safety school
- Suspension of driving privileges for at least 12 months
- May have to complete 150 hours of community service
- Potential attendance of a victim impact panel
Second offense:
- 1st-degree misdemeanor conviction
- 90 days to 6 months in jail
- Minimum fine of $1,500
- Attendance in alcohol highway safety school
- Suspension of driving privileges for at least 18 months
- May have to complete 150 hours of community service
- Potential attendance of a victim impact panel
Third offense:
- 3rd-degree felony conviction
- Mandatory prison of 1 year, up to 7 years
- Minimum fine of $2,500
- Suspension of driving privileges for at least 18 months
- May have to complete 150 hours of community service
- Potential attendance of a victim impact panel
How can I fight drugged driving charges?
Only a qualified legal representative will be able to poke holes in the prosecution’s case, using a variety of methods and arguments. Arguments include: illegal search, entrapment, planted evidence, the substances in question weren’t illegal drugs and more.
How long do drugged driving charges stay on your record in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, a DUI conviction will remain on your record for life, unless you have it expunged or receive limited access relief. Because your conviction is a matter of public record, it will be reflected in your criminal background and credit records as well as your insurance and driver’s license history. More than the initial fines, a drug DUI in Pennsylvania could have negative impacts on your prospects for employment, housing, government benefits, citizenship, student loans, the ability to adopt a child and much more. In short, it can wreck your financial stability for years to come. Don’t let a conviction define the rest of your life, reach out to a skilled Allegheny County DUI lawyer to discuss what happens next and how we can help you.
Contact Our Pittsburgh DUI Lawyer
The Law Office of George Heym focuses exclusively on DUI defense. George Heym is a former Allegheny County DUI prosecutor with an understanding of both sides of a DUI case, notable litigation experience, and relationships with local courts. Contact our firm to fight for your rights.
