DUI Lawyers in Reading, PA – Protecting Your Rights & Future
A DUI charge in Pennsylvania can have serious consequences, including license suspension, hefty fines, increased insurance rates, and even jail time. If you have been arrested for driving under the influence, you need a skilled and aggressive legal defense to protect your rights.
At Nevins & McAllister, our experienced DUI lawyers in Reading, PA have successfully defended countless individuals facing DUI charges. We understand the complex Pennsylvania DUI laws and work tirelessly to minimize penalties, challenge evidence, and seek case dismissals or reductions whenever possible.
If you or a loved one has been charged with a DUI, don’t face it alone. Contact Nevins & McAllister today at 610-372-5128 for a confidential consultation to discuss your legal options.
Why You Need a DUI Lawyer in Reading, PA
A DUI charge is not something to take lightly. Pennsylvania has strict DUI laws, and a conviction can impact your life in many ways, including:
- Driver’s License Suspension – Losing your driving privileges can make it difficult to get to work, school, or fulfill daily responsibilities.
- Hefty Fines and Penalties – Depending on the severity of your DUI charge, you could face thousands of dollars in fines.
- Possible Jail Time – Repeat offenses or high BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) levels can lead to mandatory jail sentences.
- Criminal Record – A DUI conviction stays on your record and can affect job opportunities, housing, and education.
- Increased Insurance Rates – A DUI can cause your car insurance rates to skyrocket for years to come.
Hiring a DUI lawyer in Reading, PA can help you avoid severe penalties and long-term consequences. At Nevins & McAllister, we fight to protect your freedom, your driving privileges, and your future.
Understanding Pennsylvania DUI Laws
Pennsylvania has a tiered DUI penalty system, meaning the severity of your punishment depends on your BAC level and prior offenses. Here’s how the system works:
1. General Impairment (BAC 0.08% – 0.099%)
- First Offense: No license suspension, up to 6 months probation, $300 fine, mandatory alcohol education.
- Second Offense: 12-month license suspension, up to 6 months in jail, fines up to $2,500, mandatory treatment.
- Third Offense: 12-month license suspension, up to 2 years in jail, fines up to $5,000.
2. High BAC (0.10% – 0.159%)
- First Offense: 12-month license suspension, up to 6 months in jail, fines up to $5,000.
- Second Offense: 12-month suspension, mandatory 30 days to 6 months in jail, fines up to $5,000.
- Third Offense: 18-month suspension, mandatory 90 days to 5 years in jail, fines up to $10,000.
3. Highest BAC (0.16% and Above or Controlled Substance DUI)
- First Offense: 12-month suspension, mandatory 3 days to 6 months in jail, fines up to $5,000.
- Second Offense: 18-month suspension, mandatory 90 days to 5 years in jail, fines up to $10,000.
- Third Offense: Felony offense, 1 to 5 years in prison, fines up to $10,000.
Understanding these penalties highlights the importance of hiring an experienced DUI lawyer to fight the charges against you.
Penalties For A DUI Charge in Pennsylvania
If convicted of a DUI, you can expect to face severe consequences. These consequences may include fines, community service, mandatory drug and alcohol treatment, probation and even jail time. The penalties become more severe for repeat offenders. In Pennsylvania, these penalties include:
- A fine of up to $10,000 for repeat DUIs
- Alcohol highway safety school
- Mandatory drug and alcohol treatment
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
- A 12-to-18 month license suspension
- Jail time of up to five years
Even a first-time DUI offense should be taken seriously (and with good reason). It’s important to understand what’s at stake.
How Nevins & McAllister Can Help with Your DUI Case
At Nevins & McAllister, our DUI lawyers in Reading, PA have extensive experience handling all types of DUI cases. We explore every legal defense available to protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome for your case.
1. Challenging the Traffic Stop
If law enforcement did not have probable cause to pull you over, we can file a motion to suppress evidence, which may lead to a dismissal of your case.
2. Questioning Breathalyzer and Blood Tests
Breathalyzers and blood tests can be inaccurate due to improper calibration, medical conditions, or human error. We thoroughly analyze test results to challenge their validity.
3. Evaluating Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests are subjective and unreliable. We examine dashcam footage, officer reports, and witness statements to dispute unfair or faulty test results.
4. Negotiating Reduced Charges
If a dismissal isn’t possible, we fight to reduce your charges to lesser offenses, such as reckless driving or a lower DUI tier, which can significantly lessen penalties.
5. Advocating for Alternative Sentencing
For first-time offenders, we explore diversion programs, house arrest, or probation as alternatives to jail time.
6. Defending Against License Suspension
Losing your driver’s license can be life-altering. We advocate for occupational limited licenses (OLL) or Ignition Interlock Limited Licenses (IILL) to help you stay on the road legally.
DUI Defense Strategies That Work
A strong DUI defense can make the difference between conviction and dismissal. Here are some of the most effective DUI defense strategies we use:
- Lack of Probable Cause – If the officer had no valid reason to stop you, the case could be dismissed.
- Improper Field Sobriety Tests – We challenge tests that were conducted incorrectly or under unfair conditions.
- Breathalyzer & Blood Test Errors – We investigate flawed testing procedures and lab mistakes.
- Medical Conditions & External Factors – Certain health conditions can mimic intoxication and affect test results.
- Unlawful Arrest Procedures – If your rights were violated, evidence may be thrown out in court.
Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) May Be A Solution
After being arrested for driving under the influence, many people panic. Understandably, you’re nervous about the consequences. Having a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney by your side is the best way to calm your nerves. Nevins & McAllister, PLLC, is here to answer all of your questions and discuss potential solutions. We have worked with clients throughout Pennsylvania, and we can help you, too.
What Is ARD?
ARD stands for Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition. This program is intended to help people who are being charged with a DUI. It is an alternative to trial, jail time or loss of a driver’s license. In order to qualify, there are certain requirements you must meet. This must be your first offense with no prior misdemeanor or felony charges. There also must be no serious bodily injury as a result of your accident. Everyone in the car must have been above the age of 14, as well. Having a valid license is also mandatory.
You must apply for this program at the time of your preliminary hearing. We can help you do this. Agreeing to the terms of ARD means that you will have a one-year probationary period. Depending on your blood alcohol content, you will surrender your driving privileges for less time than you would have to if you were to go to court. You must attend Alcohol Highway Safety School, pay reduced fines and undergo an evaluation. Community service is also required. We can discuss if this is a good option for you.
Why Choose Nevins & McAllister as Your DUI Lawyers in Reading, PA?
If you’re looking for top-rated DUI defense attorneys in Reading, PA, you need a firm with experience, dedication, and a track record of success. Here’s why clients trust Nevins & McAllister:
- Years of DUI Defense Experience – We know the Pennsylvania DUI laws inside and out.
- Proven Results – We’ve helped clients get charges dismissed or reduced.
- Aggressive Representation – We fight tirelessly to protect your rights and driving privileges.
- Personalized Legal Strategies – Every DUI case is different. We create custom defense plans to achieve the best outcome.
- Local Court Experience – We know the Reading, PA courts, prosecutors, and judges, giving us an advantage in your case.
Contact Our DUI Lawyers in Reading, PA Today
If you have been arrested for DUI, don’t wait to get legal help. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Call Nevins & McAllister at 610-372-5128 today for a confidential consultation. Let us protect your rights, fight for your freedom, and help you move forward.