Defending Your Rights: Premier DUI & DWI Defense in Southwest Philadelphia
Facing DUI/DWI charges can be overwhelming and scary. A conviction can have serious consequences, affecting your freedom, finances, and future. At van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim, our Southwest Philadelphia DUI lawyers are here to give you the strong legal support you need during this tough time. We know DUI/DWI cases can be complex, and we're committed to helping you get the best possible outcome.
When you're charged with a DUI/DWI, having skilled legal representation is crucial. Our firm has a successful track record of defending clients against DUI/DWI charges in Southwest Philadelphia and nearby areas. We provide personalized, strategic legal support to protect your rights and give you the best defense possible.
Understanding DUI/DWI Charges in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charges are very serious. These charges can happen when a driver has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over the legal limit or when a driver is impaired by drugs or alcohol. The legal BAC limit is 0.08% for drivers over 21 years old, 0.04% for commercial drivers, and 0.02% for drivers under 21.
DUI and DWI charges are often used interchangeably, but they can involve different situations and legal outcomes. No matter what they are called, the consequences of these charges can be severe. That's why it's crucial to have knowledgeable DWI attorneys in Southwest Philadelphia, PA, on your side.
Types of DUI Cases and DWI Cases We Handle
At van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim, we handle many different DUI/DWI cases. Every case is unique, and our attorneys are ready to create strong defense strategies that fit your specific situation. Here are the types of DUI/DWI cases we work with:
- First-Time Offenders: We defend individuals charged with DUI/DWI for the first time. Our goal is to minimize the impact on your life and explore options like diversion programs or reduced charges.
- Repeat Offenders: For those with multiple DUI/DWI offenses, we work to reduce the increased penalties that come with repeat offenses and explore all possible defenses.
- Underage DUI: We defend minors charged with driving under the influence with expertise. With the strict BAC limit for underage drivers, these cases require a careful approach to protect the young client’s future.
- Drugged Driving: These cases involve driving under the influence of drugs, whether prescription, over-the-counter, or illegal substances. We challenge the evidence and work to show lawful use or medical necessity.
- Commercial DUI: We defend commercial drivers charged with DUI. These cases can threaten a driver’s livelihood, so we strive to protect their professional licenses and careers.
- Felony DUI: Some DUI charges are elevated to felonies, especially if they involve serious injury or multiple prior offenses. We provide a strong defense to fight the severe penalties that come with felony charges.
Our team at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim is well-equipped to handle all types of DUI/DWI cases, offering personalized and strong defense strategies to protect your rights and achieve the best outcome for your situation.
Penalties for DUIs and DWIs in Southwest Philadelphia
The penalties for DUI convictions or DWI convictions in Pennsylvania are very serious and can have long-term effects on your life. Understanding these penalties is important if you are facing such charges. Here are the potential consequences:
- Fines: You could face large financial penalties, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on how serious the offense is and if you have prior convictions.
- License Suspension or Revocation: You could lose your driving privileges for a certain period, which can make it hard to get to work and take care of daily responsibilities.
- Jail or Prison Time: Depending on the offense and whether it is a repeat violation, you could be sentenced to jail or prison for a few days to several years.
- Probation: You may be placed under court-ordered supervision with strict rules that must be followed to avoid additional penalties.
- Mandatory Alcohol Education or Treatment Programs: You may be required to attend and complete programs that focus on alcohol abuse and preventing future offenses.
- Increased Insurance Rates: Your insurance premiums could go up significantly, or your policy might even be canceled because of the DUI or DWI conviction.
- Installation of Ignition Interlock Devices: You might be required to install a device in your vehicle that prevents it from starting if alcohol is detected on your breath.
At van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim, our Southwest Philadelphia DUI lawyers are committed to reducing these severe penalties through a strategic and strong defense.
Common Defenses Against DUI Charges or DWI Charges
Building a strong defense in DUI/DWI cases is crucial. Our experienced attorneys use different strategies based on each case's details. Here are some common defenses we use:
- Improper Stop: We challenge whether the police had a valid reason to stop your vehicle. If they didn't, any evidence they collected might not be allowed in court.
- Faulty Breathalyzer Test: We question the accuracy of the breathalyzer results. These devices can give incorrect readings due to improper calibration, maintenance issues, or user error.
- Field Sobriety Test Errors: We highlight any mistakes made during field sobriety tests. These tests can be unreliable because they depend on factors like medical conditions, tiredness, or poor testing conditions.
- Medical Conditions: We show how certain medical conditions, like diabetes or GERD, can lead to false positives on breath tests.
- Lack of Evidence: We argue that there isn’t enough evidence to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. The prosecution needs a strong case to convict, and any weaknesses in their evidence can work in your favor.
- Violation of Rights: We address any violations of your rights during the arrest. If your rights were violated, such as through an unlawful search or seizure, the charges against you might be dropped.
Understanding these defenses and how they apply to your case is vital. Our attorneys are committed to exploring every option to achieve the best outcome for you.
The DUI/DWI Defense Process in Pennsylvania
Navigating the legal process for DUI/DWI charges can feel overwhelming. Here's a step-by-step guide of what to expect:
- Arrest: After being stopped by law enforcement for suspected DUI/DWI, you will be arrested and taken to the police station for booking.
- Arraignment: This is where you go before a judge to hear the formal charges against you. You'll enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney might file motions to challenge evidence, ask for certain charges to be dismissed, or address other legal issues.
- Discovery: This is the phase where both the defense and prosecution exchange evidence. Your attorney will review the prosecution's case and build a strong defense strategy.
- Plea Bargaining: Your attorney may negotiate with the prosecution to reach a plea deal. This could potentially reduce the severity of the charges or penalties.
- Trial: If no plea deal is reached, your case will go to trial. Your attorney will present your defense, cross-examine witnesses, and argue for your acquittal.
- Sentencing: If you are found guilty, the court will determine your sentence, which could include fines, jail time, probation, or other penalties.
- Appeal: If you're not satisfied with the outcome, your attorney can file an appeal to challenge any legal errors or issues that may have affected the verdict.
At van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim, our DWI attorneys in Southwest Philadelphia, PA, will guide you through each step, ensuring you understand your rights and options.
Why Choose Our Southwest Philadelphia DUI Lawyers?
Selecting the right legal representation is crucial when facing DUI/DWI charges. Here’s why you should choose van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim:
- Experience and Expertise: We have extensive experience handling DUI/DWI cases, using our deep legal knowledge to create effective strategies.
- Personalized Attention: We tailor our defense strategies to fit each client’s unique situation, taking the time to understand your case and develop a defense that meets your specific needs.
- Aggressive Defense: We are committed to fighting for the best possible outcome, whether through negotiation or going to court. We will challenge the prosecution’s evidence and work tirelessly to protect your rights.
- Client Communication: We keep our clients informed and involved in their case, making sure they understand every step of the process. We value open and honest communication.
- Successful Track Record: We have a proven history of defending DUI/DWI charges, with many cases resulting in dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable verdicts.
Our team is dedicated to providing top-level legal representation, ensuring that your rights are protected and that your voice is heard.
Contact Our DUI & DWI Lawyers Today For A Free Consultation
If you are facing DUI or DWI charges, it's important to get legal help right away. Contact van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim today to schedule a free consultation. Our experienced Southwest Philadelphia DUI lawyers are here to guide you and support you in getting the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t face these charges alone—let our skilled team stand by your side and fight for your rights by contacting us for a free consultation today.
