A DUI arrest in Philadelphia is overwhelming, particularly for individuals who have never encountered the criminal legal system. Fears of jail, losing your driver’s license, and public embarrassment are immediate concerns.
However, an arrest is not a conviction. Pennsylvania DUI prosecutions under 75 Pa.C.S. Section 3802 require proof beyond a reasonable doubt, strict chemical testing protocols, and constitutional traffic stops. Philadelphia DUI lawyer Mark D. Hauser, Esquire, brings over 30 years of defense experience to protect your record and license.
Pennsylvania’s Three-Tier BAC System
| Tier | BAC Level | First-Offense Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| General Impairment | .08% to .099% BAC | Up to 6 months probation, $300 fine, alcohol safety school (No license suspension) |
| High BAC | .10% to .159% BAC | 2 days to 6 months jail, $500–$5,000 fine, 12-month license suspension |
| Highest BAC / Drug DUI | .16% and higher, or controlled substances | 3 days to 6 months jail, $1,000–$5,000 fine, 12-month license suspension |
First-Time DUI: The ARD Program
Eligible first-time DUI offenders in Philadelphia may qualify for the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program. Successfully completing ARD allows you to avoid jail time, reduces or eliminates license suspensions, and enables your attorney to petition for a full expungement of the criminal arrest record.
Challenging the Prosecution’s Evidence
Attorney Hauser evaluates whether the police had reasonable suspicion for the initial vehicle stop, whether Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) were administered correctly, and whether breathalyzer or blood testing complied with Pennsylvania Department of Health laboratory regulations.
Arrested for DUI in Philadelphia?
Contact Attorney Mark D. Hauser at 267-584-4093 immediately to protect your driver’s license and freedom.