What Are My Options If I Admitted Driving Under the Influence in Pennsylvania?
Dealing with a DUI charge can be overwhelming and greatly impact your life. It's not just about the legal consequences; it also affects different areas of your life. Pennsylvania takes DUI seriously, with strict penalties to promote road safety.
Five crucial questions if you confessed to driving drunk in Pennsylvania
If you confessed during a DUI stop in Pennsylvania, these questions will determine your legal options.
What precisely did you confess to?
While you may think you have admitted to a DUI, the truth is that your statement during the stop cannot be the sole basis of a conviction. That’s why it’s important to know exactly what you said when the police officer asked.
For instance, if you said you had been drinking, there’s room for further questions such as when, what and how much you had to drink. That’s because what you were drinking could contain little alcohol and your blood alcohol concentration level could be lower than the legal limit.
Did the police violate your constitutional rights during or after your DUI stop?
It's crucial to evaluate whether the police violated your constitutional rights during or after your DUI stop. Law enforcement officers must adhere to strict guidelines when conducting traffic stops and making arrests.
If you believe your rights were violated—for example, if you were stopped without reasonable suspicion, unlawfully detained, subjected to an illegal search and seizure, or coerced into making self-incriminating statements— the prosecutors have no case.
What additional evidence does the prosecution possess against you?
Even if you admitted to drinking during your DUI arrest, it's important to consider the other evidence the prosecution may have against you. The strength of their case depends on various factors, including the results of field sobriety tests, breathalyzer or blood test results, and any eyewitness testimonies.
An experienced DUI defense attorney can assess the prosecution's evidence, challenge its validity, and identify potential weaknesses that can be leveraged in your defense.
Are you eligible for Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD)?
The Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program provides an alternative for first-time DUI offenders in Pennsylvania.
ARD offers the opportunity to avoid a conviction and have your charges dismissed upon successfully completing the program requirements. Qualification for ARD depends on several factors, such as your criminal record, the specific circumstances of your case, and the prosecutor's discretion.
What steps should I take if I confessed to drinking during a DUI stop in Pennsylvania?
If you admitted to drinking during your DUI arrest, act promptly to protect your rights:
Contact a DUI defense attorney for personalized guidance and a strategic defense strategy.
Preserve relevant documentation, like police reports and test results, to support your defense.
Follow legal advice from your attorney to navigate the legal process effectively.
Explore defense strategies with your attorney, challenging evidence and legal issues.
Get a strong legal representation today
Facing a DUI charge can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. The Law Office of Michael E. Moyer has widespread experience in DUI cases and understands the complexities of Pennsylvania's DUI laws.
With our knowledge, skills, and resources, we can develop a strong defense strategy to achieve the most favorable outcome for your case. Call us today for a free consultation.