Premier DUI & DWI Defense Attorneys in Center City
At van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim, we understand how serious DUI/DWI charges can be. A conviction can result in heavy fines, loss of your driver's license, and even jail time. Our experienced DWI attorneys in Center City, PA are committed to providing strong and skilled legal defense to protect your rights and your future. If you are facing DUI/DWI charges, it's important to have an experienced lawyer to help you through the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Understanding DUI vs. DWI Charges
DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) are serious charges in Pennsylvania. These charges involve driving while affected by alcohol or drugs. The state has strict laws and penalties to prevent impaired driving and keep the public safe.
- DUI: This means driving with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, it’s 0.02%.
- DWI: While often used interchangeably with DUI, DWI usually refers to driving while impaired by drugs or a mix of drugs and alcohol.
Penalties for DUI or DWI Convictions in Pennsylvania
Penalties for DUI conviction or DWI convictions in Pennsylvania depend on your BAC level, past offenses, and other factors. Here are the possible consequences:
- First Offense: You could face jail time, fines, license suspension, and be required to attend alcohol education programs.
- Second Offense: Penalties include more jail time, higher fines, a longer license suspension, and installing an ignition interlock device in your car.
- Third Offense: This could result in even longer imprisonment, large fines, a lengthy license suspension, and mandatory treatment programs.
Understanding the penalties for DUI or DWI convictions is crucial for anyone facing these charges. The consequences can be severe, impacting your freedom, finances, and future. At van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim, our experienced attorneys are committed to minimizing these penalties and fighting for the best possible outcome in your case. If you or a loved one is facing DUI charges or DWI charges, contact us today to ensure your rights are protected and to get the dedicated legal support you need.
The Legal Process for DUI/DWI Cases
Understanding the legal process can help reduce the stress and uncertainty of being charged with a DUI/DWI. Here’s what to expect:
- Arrest and Charges: The process starts with an arrest and formal charges. It’s important to get legal help right away to protect your rights.
- Arraignment: This is your first court appearance, where you’ll be formally charged and asked to enter a plea. Our attorneys will advise you on the best course of action and represent you at the arraignment.
- Investigation: Both sides will investigate the case. Our attorneys will work hard to gather evidence that supports your defense and challenges the prosecution's case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Before the trial, there may be motions to dismiss evidence or even the charges. Our attorneys are skilled at filing and arguing these motions to strengthen your defense.
- Plea Negotiations: Sometimes, accepting a plea deal may be in your best interest. We’ll negotiate with the prosecution to get the best possible terms.
- Trial: If your case goes to trial, our attorneys will provide a strong defense, challenging the prosecution’s evidence and presenting a compelling case to the jury.
- Sentencing: If you’re convicted, the sentencing phase will decide your penalties. Our attorneys will work to get the least severe penalties possible, considering your situation.
Navigating the legal process requires experienced legal representation to ensure the best possible outcome. Our team at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim is here to guide you through every step with dedication and expertise.
Client Support and Confidentiality
At van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim, we prioritize your privacy and support. We understand that DUI/DWI charges are sensitive, and we handle every case with the highest level of discretion. Your privacy is very important to us, and we make sure your case stays confidential.
We also know that facing these charges can be emotionally difficult. Our team is here to provide compassionate support throughout the legal process. We’re ready to answer your questions, address your concerns, and guide you every step of the way. We also offer resources for emotional and psychological support to help you through this challenging time.
Why Choose van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim?
When facing DUI charges or DWI charges, you need a legal team with the experience, knowledge, and dedication to defend your rights. Our Center City DUI lawyers have a proven track record of success in defending clients against these charges. Here’s why you should choose us:
- Extensive Experience: Our attorneys have handled many DUI and DWI cases in Pennsylvania. We know the ins and outs of DUI/DWI laws and understand the strategies used by prosecutors. This experience helps us create strong defense plans tailored to your specific case.
- Client-Centered Approach: We put your needs first. We know how stressful DUI or DWI charges can be and are committed to providing compassionate and personalized legal support. Our attorneys are always available to keep you informed and involved in every step of your defense.
- Aggressive Defense: We work hard to protect your rights and will challenge the prosecution's case at every turn. We thoroughly investigate the evidence and present strong arguments in court, leaving no stone unturned in our defense efforts.
- Confidentiality and Discretion: We understand the sensitive nature of DUI/DWI cases and handle everything with the utmost confidentiality. You can trust that your privacy will be protected throughout the legal process.
Our Defense Strategies
- Thorough Investigation: We conduct a detailed investigation to find any inconsistencies or mistakes in the prosecution's case. This includes looking at physical evidence, reviewing witness statements, and identifying any biases or errors.
- Challenging Evidence: Our attorneys are skilled at identifying and challenging weak or inadmissible evidence. We carefully review all the evidence presented by the prosecution, including breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, police reports, and witness testimonies.
- Questioning the Traffic Stop: One of the first defenses in a DUI/DWI case is questioning the legality of the traffic stop. If the police didn’t have a valid reason to pull you over, any evidence they obtained might not be allowed in court.
- Field Sobriety Test Issues: Field sobriety tests can be unreliable. We challenge how these tests were given and interpreted to make sure they were done correctly and fairly.
- Breathalyzer and Blood Test Accuracy: Breathalyzer and blood tests aren’t always accurate. We examine the maintenance records of breathalyzer devices and challenge the accuracy of blood tests, especially if there were problems with how the samples were handled.
- Negotiation Skills: In some cases, negotiating with the prosecution can lead to reduced charges or lighter penalties. Our attorneys are experienced negotiators who can often secure favorable plea deals that lessen the impact on your life.
- Courtroom Expertise: If your case goes to trial, our attorneys are ready to vigorously defend you in court. We are skilled at cross-examining witnesses, presenting strong arguments, and delivering persuasive closing statements.
Choosing van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim means partnering with a team of dedicated Center City DUI lawyers who put your needs first, offer personalized legal support, and provide a strong defense to protect your rights and future. Trust our experienced attorneys to guide you through this challenging time with the expertise and commitment you deserve.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation about DUI/DWI Defense
If you or a loved one is facing DUI/DWI charges, it’s important to get legal help right away. Our DWI attorneys in Center City, PA are here to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights. Contact van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim today for a free consultation. We will review your case, discuss your options, and create a strategy that fits your needs.
