Being caught driving under the influence in Pennsylvania carries severe consequences, especially if it is not your first offense. While there are times when a DUI can be charged as a misdemeanor, certain factors can make it an automatic felony. Most of the time, these situations include additional crimes on top of driving under the influence that make the situation much more dangerous. One such crime is child endangerment.

While driving drunk is unlawful, having a child in the car while doing so is far worse. Under Pennsylvania’s child endangerment laws, your DUI will automatically be bumped up to a felony. In addition, the charge of child endangerment will also be added on, which is generally considered a misdemeanor. Nonetheless, it carries severe penalties if you are convicted. Here’s what you need to know about child endangerment DUIs in Pennsylvania.

The Legal Penalties

First, let’s start with the DUI itself.… Read More

For many of us, it’s hard to imagine celebrating Christmas, New Years and the holiday season in general without at least a cup of eggnog. Sure, it may not seem like the most appetizing of drinks, but really, is there a more festive, iconic beverage? For those who simply can’t stand it, you might instead have a couple of cocktails or a few beers. Whatever your drink of choice is, holiday parties just aren’t the same without it (especially when the in-laws are in town).

Though it is find to get downright drunk at a private holiday party — as long as you’re over 21 — it is what happens after the party that can become an issue. Choosing to get behind the wheel of the car after a night of drinking and partying is never a good idea. It can, at the very least, land you in legal trouble and, at the worst, cause a fatal accident.… Read More

Being convicted of driving under the influence in Pennsylvania can have serious, life-altering consequences. It may be more difficult to find a job, and you may be without a car for an extended period of time. Unfortunately, many of the costly consequences of a DUI simply must be dealt with if you are convicted. However, there is good new for residents of Pennsylvania.

Unlike some other states, Pennsylvania does allow you to get a DUI expunged from your record. What that means is it is like the DUI never happened. It cannot be held against you in any future court cases, on job applications or in any other circumstance. However, the process of getting your DUI expunged from your record is not necessarily an easy task; it can take time, and strict criteria must be met. Here is a checklist for you to consider if you are seeking a DUI expungement:

For Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition Cases

In Pennsylvania, the court offers a special program to offenders with a limited criminal record, if any at all.… Read More