What to Do After Being Charged with Your Second DUI Offense

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Erie PA DUI Lawyer | The Travis Law Firm

No matter whether you have had past experience with DUIs, it is always nerve-wracking to be arrested. It’s certainly true that any DUI can lead to serious consequences for the charged individual, but the stakes are higher when this is your second offense. Read on to learn more about what you need to do if you have recently been arrested for a second or subsequent DUI. Any DUI can come with major consequences, including fines or even jail time.

Follow these tips in order to handle your second offense DUI charge effectively.

Don’t Speak to the Police without Your Lawyer Present

The police might try to convince you that you have a lot to lose with this being a subsequent DUI charge. They may prod you with questions and expect you to open up with all the details about your experience before the arrest. You cannot count on the police officers to protect you fully. You need to protect yourself by waiting for your Erie criminal defense attorney to help you.

Don’t Accept a Deal without Talking it Over with Your Lawyer 

The consequences associated with a second DUI depend on your BAC at the time of the arrest.

  • BAC under .10 can lead to up to a $2,500 fine, alcohol safety school, up to 6 months in jail, a one-year ignition interlock mandate, and community service
  • BAC .10 to .159 may lead to up to a $5,000 fine, 6 months in jail, treatment, alcohol safety school, ignition interlock use, and community service
  • BAC .16 and higher can lead to up to $10,000 in fines, 5 years in prison, treatment, alcohol safety school, ignition interlock use, and community service

If anyone tries to offer you a deal to accept guilt immediately, do not take it. If you followed the first tip, you should already be waiting to share anything until your attorney arrives. What seems like a good deal in the immediate aftermath of being arrested can come back to bite you, so let cooler heads prevail and have your attorney walk you through the pros and cons of accepting any deal.

Hiring The Right Attorney For Your 2nd DUI Really Makes A Difference

Hiring the right Erie PA DUI defense attorney can have a big impact on your ability to handle a second DUI charge. Don’t hesitate to contact The Travis Law Firm for a confidential free consultation about your 2nd DUI. And, always request that your defense attorney be present before you speak to police.