Drinking and driving is a serious offense that can lead to grave consequences such as accidents, injuries, and fatalities. It is even more severe if you are underage and caught driving under the influence of alcohol. Pennsylvania has strict laws against underage DUI, and the penalties can be extremely severe. If you are facing an underage DUI charge, you need to know what actions to take to mitigate possible disciplinary actions.
- Know the Consequences
The first thing you need to do if you are facing an underage DUI charge in Pennsylvania is to understand the potential consequences. Since underage drinking is illegal, it comes with a harsher punishment than the conventional DUI that only applies to adult drivers. The consequences can include jail time, heavy fines, license suspension, community service, and a permanent criminal record. Knowing the penalties can help you appreciate the gravity of the situation and make informed decisions on the next steps.
- Hire a DUI Defense Attorney
Hiring a reputable and experienced DUI defense attorney should be the next step after being charged with an underage DUI. Your lawyer will assist you in understanding your legal rights, guide you through the legal process, and defend you in court. An attorney can argue your case in court, challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution, negotiate a plea deal that minimizes the negative consequences, and try to have your case dismissed if possible.
- Attend Counseling Sessions
If you are convicted of an underage DUI charge, you may be required to attend mandatory counseling sessions. These sessions help you learn about the dangers of drinking and driving and help you get help if you have an underlying alcohol problem. Besides, attending counseling sessions can be viewed as a positive step toward rehabilitation, which often works in your favor during your sentencing process.
- Be Prepared for a License Suspension
One of the most common penalties associated with underage DUI conviction in Pennsylvania is a license suspension. If you are convicted of DUI, you can expect your license to be suspended for at least six months to one year for the first offense. However, you can request an occupational or limited license to allow you to commute to work, school, or attend counseling sessions. An experienced DUI defense attorney can help you navigate this process.
- Take Your Case Seriously
Underage DUI charges are not to be taken lightly, and the consequences can be severe. Always take your case seriously, cooperate with your legal team, and follow the instructions provided by the court. With consistency, positive attitude, and determination, you can navigate the legal process with relative ease and come out with minimal or no harm to your life and reputation.
Being charged with an underage DUI in Pennsylvania is a serious offense that can have long-term consequences, but there are steps you can take to minimize the penalties. Know the consequences, hire a DUI defense attorney, attend counseling sessions, be prepared for license suspension, and take your case seriously. By following these tips, you can increase the chances of the best possible outcome. Always remember that underage drinking and driving is illegal, risky, and can lead to severe consequences, so always make smart decisions and avoid drinking and driving at all costs.
You need more than just one good DUI lawyer. You need the best. You need a team of experienced DUI lawyers fighting for you. Contact Lee Ciccarelli, and his team of West Chester, Pennsylvania DUI lawyers.
Watch out. There’s a lot of former prosecutors boasting about their experience: experience putting people just like you behind bars. Instead, look to Lee Ciccarelli and his team with nearly 100 years of experience fighting for clients facing the penalties of a DUI.
Contact Chester County DUI Defense Attorney
It may be possible to fight your Pennsylvania DUI charge and win, but you’ll never know if you plead guilty without first exploring your options. Ciccarelli Law Offices can review your case to determine whether the local Pennsylvania district attorney’s case has weaknesses that are open to challenge. We will prepare each case as though it is going to trial to insure preparation and thorough understanding and will take the case to trial if you are not satisfied with the resolution that is offered. We strive to be zealous advocates and always try to obtain the best results for our clients.
We are based in West Chester PA (Chester County) in Suburban Philadelphia and represent individuals charged with Drunk Driving, DUI, Driving After Imbibing cases Throughout Pennsylvania including but not limited to Philadelphia, Lancaster, Allentown, Oxford Exton Phoenixville Parkesburg Malvern Coatesville Lionville Chesterbrook Devon Newtown Square Glen Mills Pottstown Downingtown Kennett Square King of Prussia Paoli and beyond.
You deserve a West Chester Pennsylvania DUI lawyer that is available when you need him, treats you with respect, and protects your rights vigorously. For more information or to schedule an appointment with an experienced Pennsylvania DUI Attorney at Ciccarelli Law Offices, by contacting us at (610) 692-8700 or toll free at (877) 529-2422.