Perhaps a law enforcement officer stopped you on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI).
If convicted, this would represent your second DUI offense within a year. The penalties will increase and so will the adverse effects on your future.
Penalties for repeat offenders
You may already have learned that Pennsylvania penalties for DUI are harsh. They increase for repeat offenders and can include fines of up to $10,000. With a conviction for your second offense, you will also face mandatory alcohol treatment and attendance at an alcohol highway safety school plus possible jail time. Driver’s license suspension could last for up to 18 months. In order to drive, you must have an ignition interlock device in any vehicle you operate.
Employment concerns
If the company you work for kept you on after your first DUI conviction, your employer might not be so lenient about a second offense. If you find yourself looking for a new job, remember that recruiters routinely perform background checks. Given the DUI marks on your record, a recruiter might pass you over for an applicant with a clean record.
Education and other concerns
If you want to continue your education, keep in mind that a DUI conviction will disqualify you from obtaining certification or state licensing for certain occupations. These include positions in medicine, teaching and the law. Getting a bank loan or a lease for the new apartment you want can also prove difficult with a DUI mark on your record.
Possible errors
Mistakes happen, and your attorney will examine the circumstances surrounding your arrest to find out if any administrative or testing errors occurred after your stop for suspected DUI. Your future is waiting, and your attorney will build a defense strategy that gives you the best outcome possible for your case.
