South Philadelphia DUI Lawyers Safe and Protected with Powerful Representation

Not Guilty Murder Case
Not Guilty Child Pornography
Not Guilty College student rape case
Not Guilty Drug Trafficking
Charges Dropped Embezzlement
Charges Dropped Embezzlement
Not Guilty Rape case
Not Guilty Double Homicide
Charges Dropped Arson
Pardon Granted Governor’s Pardon for Theft
Not Guilty DUI
Not Guilty Aggravated Assault
Pardon Granted Governor’s Pardon for Assault
Not Guilty Drug Trafficking
Not Guilty Aggravated Assault
Acquittal Impeachment Trial

South Philadelphia DUI Lawyers

DUI & DWI Legal Services in South Philadelphia

Facing DUI/DWI charges can be overwhelming and life-changing. If you or a loved one has been charged with DUI or DWI in South Philadelphia, it's important to get the right legal help. At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, our DUI lawyers are dedicated to providing strong and effective defense strategies to protect your rights and work towards the best outcome for your case.

Our firm is known for defending clients in South Philadelphia and the surrounding areas. With a deep understanding of local laws and a proven record of success, our attorneys are ready to handle a wide range of criminal defense cases. Whether you're dealing with a minor misdemeanor or a serious felony, we bring the same level of dedication and skill to every case. Trust van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin to stand by your side and fight hard for your defense.

Find Out What Your Case is Worth

We invite you to reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team. Call (215) 610-3440 or contact us online to learn more.

They take full control of your case allowing you to have peace of mind while they win.
“I have been a client of this firm for many years now, and all that I can say is these are the Top Lawyers in the City! My experience over the years have been excellent! Thank you van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin. Job very well done.”

- Quiana
Having been represented on different subjects Mike has provided the same outstanding results!
“This law firm has been nothing but the best for my company! Mr. van der Veen has always worked very hard and communicated well with each situation that he has represented me in. I would highly recommend this firm!”

- Sewall M. Jr.
They handled every aspect of my case with integrity and pride.
“Wonderful customer service. The team at van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin is the real deal. I would definitely recommend them.”

- Former Client
They make my concerns their concerns.
“Thank you for always picking up the phone. I could not have a better firm representing myself, family and my friends. If you want an attorney that gets the job done, Look no more!!! Contact Attorney van der Veen.”

- Leslie L.
The team is definitely a dream team straight outta Philadelphia Center City!
“I first want to thank this dream team they definitely was a pleasure to work with and I am glad I chose Van der Veen law firm to get the jobs”

- RB
Michael is superb! Great attorney, great team, great job.
“Outcome was better than expected. Forever thankful to Mike’s reliable firm. If you want great results they are your guys. Strongly recommend.”

- Ninel B.
You should not go anywhere else.
“This firm is the absolute best! Very knowledgeable, pleasant, and amazing!! I recommend this Law firm to anyone with an issue. can't speak highly enough for this firm and it's attorneys! It was truly a wonderful experience.”

- Bennie H.
Guided me through the process for a success.
“Very satisfied with the way they handled my case, answer all my question, provided me with needed information.”

- Frank A.

What Constitutes DUI or DWI in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charges are taken very seriously, with strict laws and penalties in place to prevent people from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Knowing what counts as a DUI/DWI is important for defending yourself against these charges.

Legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits

In Pennsylvania, the legal BAC limit for drivers 21 and older is 0.08%. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, a BAC of 0.02% or higher can lead to DUI charges. You can also be charged with DUI if you are impaired by drugs, including prescription medications or illegal substances.

Other Factors Leading to DUI/DWI Charges

Besides BAC levels, DUI/DWI charges can be based on observed signs of impairment, such as erratic driving, failing field sobriety tests, or evidence of drug use. Our South Philadelphia DUI lawyers understand all the details of DUI/DWI law and can help you navigate the specifics of your case.

Penalties for DUI and DWI Convictions in Pennsylvania

The consequences of a DUI/DWI conviction in Pennsylvania can be serious and long-lasting. The penalties you might face depend on factors like your BAC level, whether it’s your first offense, and if there was an accident or injury involved. Some potential penalties are…

Fines: DUI/DWI fines can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the offense.
License Suspension: A DUI/DWI conviction can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, making it difficult to get to work or handle daily tasks.
Jail Time: Depending on the details of the case, you could face jail time ranging from a few days to several years.
Criminal Record: A DUI/DWI conviction stays on your criminal record, which can affect job opportunities, housing applications, and more.
Enhanced Penalties for Repeat Offenses or High BAC Levels: If you have previous DUI/DWI convictions or if your BAC level was particularly high (0.10% or higher), the penalties are even tougher. This can include longer license suspensions, higher fines, mandatory alcohol treatment programs, and extended jail time.

Understanding each step of the DUI/DWI legal process in Pennsylvania is essential to protecting your rights and getting the best possible outcome. Having the experienced attorneys at van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin by your side can make a big difference in managing your case effectively.

The Legal Process for DUIs and DWIs

Navigating the legal process for a DUI/DWI charge can be confusing and stressful. Our experienced DWI attorneys in South Philadelphia, PA, are here to help you through each step.

Initial Traffic Stop and Arrest: The process starts with a traffic stop, where the police will check if you’re impaired. This might include field sobriety tests or a breathalyzer. If the officer thinks you’re impaired, you will be arrested.
License Suspension Hearing: After your arrest, your license might be suspended. This is separate from your criminal case and involves a hearing to decide if you should lose your driving privileges. Our DUI lawyers can represent you at this hearing to help keep your license.
Criminal Court Process: The court process for a DUI/DWI charge includes several steps, like arraignment, pre-trial motions, and possibly a trial. Our attorneys will work to build a strong defense, challenging the evidence and fighting for the best outcome for you.
Defenses and Plea Options: There are several ways to defend against a DUI/DWI charge, such as questioning the legality of the traffic stop or the accuracy of BAC tests. We will also look at plea options, like reduced charges or alternative sentencing, to get the best result for you.

Understanding the DUI/DWI legal process in Pennsylvania is important, as it can greatly affect the outcome of your case. Seeking professional legal advice and representation can help you navigate this process successfully.

Why Choose van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin?

When defending against DUI charges or DWI charges, having experienced and dedicated legal help is crucial. At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, we have a strong history of success in DUI cases and are committed to giving you personalized and aggressive representation. Our South Philadelphia DUI lawyers have handled many DWI cases and have a high success rate in getting favorable outcomes for our clients. We know the details of DUI law and DWI law and use this knowledge to build strong defenses.

Each DUI and DWI case is different, so we create a defense plan tailored to your specific situation. Our team takes the time to understand your case and works hard to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.

Common DUI/DWI Defenses

Building a strong defense is essential in a DUI/DWI case. Our South Philadelphia DUI lawyers are experienced in finding and using effective defense strategies to help you.

Challenging the Legality of the Traffic Stop: One defense is to question whether the police had a valid reason to stop you. If they didn't have reasonable suspicion, any evidence they gathered during the stop might not be allowed in court.
Questioning the Accuracy of BAC Tests: Breathalyzer and other BAC tests can sometimes be wrong. Issues like improper calibration, certain medical conditions, or even specific foods or medications can affect test results. We carefully examine the testing process to find any errors.
Demonstrating Procedural Errors by Law Enforcement: If the police made mistakes during your arrest, such as not following proper procedures or failing to read your Miranda rights, it could lead to evidence being dismissed or even the case being dropped.
Exploring Alternative Explanations for Impaired Behavior: Sometimes, behavior that looks like intoxication can be caused by other factors, like medical conditions, fatigue, or nervousness. We investigate all possible reasons to build a strong defense.

Understanding the different defenses available for DUI/DWI charges is key to creating an effective legal strategy. Each case is unique, and a skilled attorney can help identify the best defense to challenge the charges and protect your rights.

DUI Defense Legal Services: Areas Served

At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, we proudly provide comprehensive DUI defense representation to clients throughout Pennsylvania. Wherever you are located, our legal team is committed to delivering skilled advocacy and personalized defense strategies designed to protect your rights and your future.

We serve clients in the following areas:

Click on your location to learn how our dedicated Pennsylvania DUI defense lawyers tailor every strategy to meet the distinct needs of individuals facing DUI charges in these communities.

If you are facing DUI charges or DWI charges in South Philadelphia, it's important to get legal help right away. Contact van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin today for a free consultation. Our South Philadelphia DUI lawyers are here to give you the strong defense you need to protect your rights and your future.

The Person Who Sees The Whole Picture Meet Michael T. van der Veen

From local business owners, to the President of the United States, we fight for everyone's best interest. As founder of the firm, Michael T. van der Veen effortlessly combines accessibility, experience, negotiation, collaboration, and compassion to achieve results. He is the rare trial attorney who excels in both civil litigation and criminal defense. Known for his unwavering commitment to serving as the voice of the victim and advocate for the accused, he has established his reputation by winning multimillion-dollar jury verdicts in State and Federal Courts, as well as winning major criminal trials across the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 215-610-3440 today!

After being charged with a DUI/DWI, the first step is to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement. Do not admit guilt or make any statements that could be used against you. It's crucial to contact an experienced DUI/DWI attorney as soon as possible. They can provide guidance on your rights, help navigate the legal process, and start building your defense. Additionally, make a note of any details related to the arrest, such as the behavior of the police officers, the location, and any field sobriety tests performed, as this information can be valuable for your case.
The penalties for a DUI/DWI conviction in South Philadelphia can vary depending on factors such as blood alcohol content (BAC) level, prior offenses, and whether any injuries or property damage occurred. Common penalties include fines, jail time, community service, mandatory alcohol education classes, and license suspension or revocation. For a first-time offense, fines can range from $300 to $5,000, with possible jail time up to six months. Repeat offenders face more severe penalties, including longer jail sentences, higher fines, and extended license suspensions.
In Pennsylvania, implied consent laws require drivers to submit to chemical testing (such as breath, blood, or urine tests) if lawfully arrested for DUI/DWI. Refusing a breathalyzer or other chemical test can result in immediate penalties, including a one-year license suspension and potential fines. However, field sobriety tests, which are typically performed before an arrest, are voluntary, and you have the right to refuse them without automatic penalties. It's important to know that refusal of chemical testing can still be used as evidence against you in court.
Several defenses can be employed to challenge DUI/DWI charges, depending on the specifics of the case. Common defenses include questioning the accuracy and administration of breathalyzer tests, challenging the legality of the traffic stop, and disputing the officer's observations and conclusions. Additionally, medical conditions, improper calibration of testing equipment, or failure to follow proper procedures during the arrest can also be used as defenses. An experienced DUI/DWI attorney can assess your case and determine the most appropriate defense strategy.
A DUI/DWI attorney can provide invaluable assistance by offering legal expertise and representing your interests throughout the legal process. They can review the evidence against you, identify any procedural errors or rights violations, and negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options. An attorney can also represent you in court, presenting a well-prepared defense to challenge the prosecution's case. By leveraging their knowledge of DUI/DWI laws and local court procedures, an attorney can help you achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.

in their own words

Clients share their experiences and results firsthand

"He gives you the impression there’s a person you can count on, a person that you can rely on in terms of having some representation. He kept me informed, he kept me up to date with everything that was going on throughout the process. What doctor, what appointments, who I have to see…I was always very well informed." -Sam
"I love that I have Mike on my side, whenever I question what am I supposed to do? I used to call my dad and after my dad passed, even for things that aren’t always law related, I know I could still call Mike, and I love that about him. He’s just amazing, and I know that if I send somebody here that they’re going to be represented a hundred percent." -Jamie
"He represented me in multiple criminal cases, and I had a lengthy criminal record. He never judged me, and treated me like anybody else, he never looked at me different. He's a real good guy, professional, very honest. When I say I never went to another attorney...he's the best." -Tiffany
"this law firm has afforded low income people of Philadelphia a relationship with an attorney that they can come and meet. To have a the intuition to give a damn about the little people, and then give them that same kind of respect and consideration is unmatched." -Melvin

the complete coverage advantage

Full-Spectrum
Law

From criminal defense to personal injury and beyond, clients gain seamless, strategic support from a full-service law firm built to handle every legal challenge under one roof.
Values-Driven
Practice

From pro bono advocacy to charitable and community involvement, our attorneys are deeply invested in the people and causes they serve, because real justice includes giving back.
Human-Centered
Advocacy

We stand as the voice of the injured and a strong advocate for the accused. We don’t just see a case, we see the people and futures at stake, and we fight accordingly.
High-Caliber
Results

Our attorneys are nationally recognized, featured in major media, and trusted with the complex, high-stakes cases, because when the outcome matters most, experience matters more.

Safe and Protected with Powerful Representation

Trial Lawyers Excelling in the Areas of Law Most Critical to You and Your Family

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