Felony DUI Offenses
On December 23, 2018, Pennsylvania's DUI law was changed to make certain DUIs a felony offense. In order to be charged with a felony, you must meet specific circumstances established by the law.
Third DUI offenses within a ten-year period will be considered a felony if the driver:
- Had a minor under the age of 18 as a passenger in the vehicle
- Was under the influence of a controlled substance
- Refused to submit to a chemical test to determine their BAC
- Had a BAC of 0.16% or higher
In addition, if you have three DUI convictions in the past 10 years, your fourth and all subsequent DUI offenses will be charged as a felony. If you were ever convicted of a homicide by vehicle in the past, your DUI will also carry a felony charge.
For a felony DUI conviction, you will face the following penalties:
- 1-7 years in prison
- Fines up to $15,000
- 18-month driver's license suspension
- One-year mandatory ignition interlock device in your vehicle
In addition to these penalties, a felony conviction can result in other consequences that impact many areas of your life:
- You can't own or possess a gun
- You can't go hunting
- You can't vote
- You many not be able to travel to many foreign countries
- You can't work at a school for 10 years
- You will be terminated from state employment
- You must notify the professional licensing board if you hold a professional license
- Your car insurance will increase or you may be denied coverage
- You may not be able to adopt children
- Your landlord may be able to evict you
- Your credit score may drop significantly
A felony will stay on your permanent criminal record forever. Anytime a criminal background check is done, your felony will show up. This can impact your life in so many ways. Therefore, it's crucial that you work with an experienced DUI lawyer such as Mike Sherman.
Keep in mind that a DUI charge is not an automatic conviction. There are many ways Mike can challenge the matter in court. If you are facing a felony DUI charge, Mike will fight aggressively for your rights every step of the way to ensure you receive the best possible outcome.
If you are facing a serious charge, don't delay. Call former Pennsylvania State Police attorney Mike Sherman now to set up your free consultation at (412) 471-5000.
What is the Mike Sherman Difference?
Mike Sherman has unique experience and knowledge which he uses to protect his clients.
- Mike Sherman is a former attorney for the Pennsylvania State Police. He knows both sides of the law and uses that knowledge to benefit his clients.
- Mike Sherman wrote “the” Pennsylvania textbook on Pennsylvania DUI law, Driving Under the Influence Law and Practice.
- He uses a scientific method to investigate your case. Relying on his deep understanding of forensic science, he picks apart the evidence against you and looks for errors that he can challenge. He then carefully prepares your case with the goal of highlighting these issues and putting you in the best possible position.
If you are facing a serious charge, don't delay. Call now to set up your free consultation at 412-471-5000
