Facing a Third DUI Charge in Reading, PA? Here’s What You Need to Know
Being charged with a third DUI in Pennsylvania is one of the most serious drunk driving offenses you can face. The penalties are steep, and the consequences can be life-altering. If you or a loved one is facing this situation, now is the time to take immediate action. The legal system will not go easy on a repeat offender, which is why it’s crucial to have the guidance of experienced third offense DUI lawyers in Reading, PA.
At Nevins & McAllister, we have spent years defending clients across Berks County facing the harshest DUI penalties. Our legal team understands how to challenge the prosecution’s case and push back against evidence that may seem insurmountable. We don’t just focus on the legal process; we focus on preserving your future.
What Makes a Third DUI Offense So Serious?
In Pennsylvania, the penalties for a DUI grow with each subsequent conviction. A third offense means the court will treat your case as a potential felony. You are now viewed as a habitual offender, which significantly increases the chances of jail time and long-term license loss.
Key consequences of a third DUI offense include:
- Mandatory 12 to 18-month license suspension
- 90 days to 5 years of jail time, depending on BAC level
- Up to $10,000 in fines
- Court-ordered drug and alcohol treatment
- Installation of an ignition interlock device for at least one year
- A permanent criminal record
The stakes are high, but that does not mean you are out of options. With the right legal strategy, it may be possible to reduce charges, suppress evidence, or seek alternative sentencing options.
Penalties Based on Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC)
Pennsylvania divides DUI offenses into three tiers based on BAC:
- General Impairment (0.08%–0.099%)
- High BAC (0.10%–0.159%)
- Highest BAC (0.16% and above) or refusal to submit to testing
For a third offense, even the lowest tier carries mandatory jail time. If your case falls into the highest BAC category, you could be facing years behind bars. If drugs were involved, additional penalties could apply. You may also be facing drug-related charges, especially if your DUI was connected to controlled substances. Learn more about defending against drug crimes in Reading.
How Our DUI Defense Lawyers Build Your Case
At Nevins & McAllister, we know the local court system. Our attorneys use that knowledge to build aggressive, personalized defense strategies. We are not here to judge. We are here to fight for you.
We carefully examine:
- The legality of the traffic stop – If police had no valid reason to pull you over, the entire case could be challenged.
- Field sobriety and chemical testing – Breathalyzers and blood tests are often flawed or improperly administered.
- Officer conduct and body cam footage – We investigate if proper procedure was followed during your arrest.
- Timeline of prior convictions – In some cases, past DUIs may fall outside the 10-year lookback window, affecting sentencing.
We take every opportunity to challenge weaknesses in the state’s case. If your rights were violated, we will file the appropriate motions to have evidence suppressed or charges reduced.
Explore our DUI defense strategies here.
Will a Third DUI Be Charged as a Felony?
Yes. Under Pennsylvania law, a third DUI offense with a BAC of 0.16% or higher is now considered a felony of the third degree. This can carry:
- Up to seven years in prison
- A fine of up to $15,000
- Loss of civil rights, including voting and gun ownership in some cases
Felony convictions also have long-term consequences for employment, housing, and even parental rights. If your DUI charge intersects with family issues like custody, our team can help.
Alternative Sentencing and Diversion Options
Even with a third DUI charge, you may still qualify for alternative sentencing programs. Depending on the facts of your case, our attorneys may advocate for:
- Treatment Court instead of jail time
- Electronic home monitoring
- House arrest with work release
- Placement in residential treatment facilities
We work hard to demonstrate that rehabilitation, not incarceration, is the best option. In some situations, our clients may also qualify for reduced penalties based on health, employment, or family obligations.
See how we advocate for second chances in serious DUI cases.
How a Third DUI Impacts Your Driver’s License
Your license will be suspended for at least 12 months if convicted. You will also be required to install an ignition interlock device in every vehicle you drive.
Our legal team can help you apply for a Limited License that allows you to continue driving to work, school, or medical appointments. Without legal representation, you may lose access to this critical lifeline.
Find out how we help clients fight driving-related charges like license suspension.
Collateral Consequences Beyond the Courtroom
A third DUI conviction affects more than just your record. You could face:
- Job loss, especially for CDL holders or those in healthcare, education, or law enforcement
- Child custody complications, particularly in shared parenting agreements
- Higher car insurance premiums, or total loss of coverage
- Immigration issues, if you are not a U.S. citizen
Our team includes experienced family law attorneys who can guide you through the broader legal issues connected to your case. Learn how we help clients modify custody when a DUI changes the picture.
What to Do Immediately After a Third DUI Arrest
Timing is critical. The longer you wait to hire a lawyer, the harder it becomes to preserve evidence, protect your license, and build a strong defense.
Here’s what to do:
- Do not speak to police without a lawyer present.
- Request an attorney immediately after your arrest.
- Document everything, including when and where you were pulled over.
- Call Nevins & McAllister as soon as possible for a confidential review of your case.
Get in touch with our firm now. Early intervention makes all the difference.
Why Clients Trust Nevins & McAllister with Their DUI Defense
Choosing the right lawyer for your third DUI is not about price. It’s about experience, strategy, and results. Clients across Reading and Berks County rely on our team because:
- We have decades of combined courtroom experience
- We know how to negotiate with prosecutors and judges
- We create defense strategies tailored to each case
- We maintain constant communication with our clients
- We fight for the outcome that protects your future
Our goal is to minimize the damage, keep you out of jail if possible, and help you move forward.
Get Experienced Help for a Third DUI in Reading, PA
There is no room for error with a third DUI charge. Whether your arrest involved alcohol, drugs, or prescription medication, our legal team is prepared to fight for you.
Call Nevins & McAllister today to schedule a confidential consultation. We’ll explain your legal options and help you take the first step toward building a powerful defense. We serve clients throughout Reading, Berks County, and the surrounding communities.