Coover & Associates

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717-461-7789

Coover & Associates
717-461-7789

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Attorneys Fighting For Clients Charged With Repeat Or Aggravated DUI Offenses

Not all drunk driving cases are treated equally. A first-time offense with no aggravating factors can be consequential on its own. However, for each additional offense and/or aggravating factor, the charges and penalties are likely to increase.

No matter what kinds of DUI charges you are facing, trust your defense to our experienced attorneys at Coover & Associates. We have office locations in York, Carlisle, Chambersburg and Camp Hill, and we serve clients throughout central Pennsylvania.

Repeat DUI Offenses Raise The Stakes Of Conviction

Each case is unique, but as a general rule, DUI penalties increase with subsequent offenses. Here are the likely consequences of a second-time DUI offense:

  • BAC from 0.08 to 0.099: License suspension, jail time, fine, alcohol traffic safety classes, alcohol treatment and ignition interlock device
  • BAC from 0.10 to 0.159: License suspension, jail time, fine, alcohol traffic safety classes, alcohol treatment and ignition interlock device
  • BAC from 0.16 and up: License suspension, jail or prison time, fine, alcohol traffic safety classes, alcohol treatment and ignition interlock device
  • Controlled substances: License suspension, jail or prison time, fine, alcohol traffic safety classes, alcohol treatment and ignition interlock device

Participation in the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program is not allowed for anything beyond a first-time offense. Additionally, even if you have completed an ARD in the past, that initial offense may still be counted as a prior offense for sentencing purposes in your current case.

Aggravating Factors That Could Increase DUI Charges And Penalties

Under Pennsylvania law, someone charged with a DUI may face harsher charges and sentencing if the case involves one or more of these aggravating factors:

  • DUI with a minor child in the vehicle: Arrested for DUI while transporting a child aged 14 or younger.
  • DUI resulting in an accident with injuries: Being involved in a car accident that resulted in injuries to another person while driving under the influence. The impaired person doesn’t need to have caused the accident to face additional penalties.
  • Extreme intoxication levels: Blood alcohol content levels at or above 0.10% are considered extreme. Penalties depend on the specific BAC.
  • Three or more DUI convictions within 10 years: The latest offense will be charged as a felony.

It is important to note that “aggravated DUI” is not an official offense in Pennsylvania. Rather, it refers to the aggravating factors that will likely increase the charges (from a misdemeanor to a felony, for instance) or result in a tougher sentence.

The Right Attorney Can Make A Big Difference In Your Case – Contact Us Today

You should be consulting with an experienced defense lawyer after any DUI charge, but especially so if you have prior convictions or there are aggravating factors. Led by veteran DUI defense attorney Michael Carrucoli, we have a strong track record of success on behalf of clients, and we may be able to exercise options you didn’t know you had. Our philosophy is to empower clients to aid in their own defense to limit the impact on their lives.

To schedule an initial consultation with our knowledgeable DUI defense lawyers at Coover & Associates, call 717-461-7789 or submit an online contact form.