Drunk Driving Arrest in Pittsburgh

A Pittsburgh DUI (Driving Under the Influence) stop is a stressful and confusing experience. It is important to be aware of the basic steps of a Pittsburgh DUI arrest, and the rights you may exercise throughout the Pittsburgh DUI defense process.

Pittsburgh DUI charges

If you are stopped on suspicion of DUI, you will likely be asked by the police officer to perform a variety of sobriety tests, including the following:

• Perform various tasks: You might be asked to stand on one leg, walk in a straight line, or recite the alphabet.
• Take a breathalyzer test: You might be asked to blow into a handheld device that determines whether and how much you were drinking.

You are entitled to refuse these tests by your legal rights. Many lawyers advise against taking the breathalyzer test, as such tests have a reputation for inaccuracy. However, note that if you refuse to perform the tasks or submit to the breathalyzer, you will probably be arrested on suspicion of DUI and brought to the nearest detention center.  You will then be asked to take a urine or blood test, which you may also refuse—but you should be aware that refusing a chemical test will result in a mandatory one-year drivers license suspension and three days in jail.

Pittsburgh drunk driving defense

The penalties for drunk driving in Pittsburgh can be severe, which is one reason why you need high quality drunk driving defense. Penalties vary on many factors such as the level of your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC), whether or not you are under 21 years old, and whether or not you have prior offenses.

Penalties for DUI in Pittsburgh may include the following:

• License suspension for a minimum of one year
• Heavy fines
• Jail time of a few days to five years
• Required completion of a substance abuse program

A DUI will also give you a criminal record. A DUI conviction usually remains on the convicted person’s record for life.

DUI defense in Pittsburgh

A DUI conviction has serious consequences in Pennsylvania. However, a reputable attorney can make a difference in the outcome of your case. Even if your conviction is unavoidable, a good lawyer can help minimize the penalties of a DUI.

If you are facing a DUI arrest in Pittsburgh, you are not alone. Attorney Joseph Alexander Paletta has years of experience in DUI law, and will provide the professional advice and personal support you need during this difficult time.

Contact Joseph Paletta today at 888-673-3224 to set up a free initial consultation.