John D. Sisto, P.C.

Call Today: 814-425-5415

John D. Sisto, P.C.
814-425-5415

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Experienced First-Time DUI Charge Lawyer In Altoona

Facing your first driving under the influence (DUI) charge can be stressful, especially if you have never been through the criminal justice system. You may worry about losing your license, paying fines, going to jail or putting your job at risk. You may also have questions about what happens next. At John D. Sisto, P.C., I help people in Altoona understand their charges, explore possible defenses and make informed decisions. I take time to explain the process so you know what to expect and how to protect your future.

What Happens After A First DUI Arrest In Pennsylvania?

After a DUI arrest, you will receive criminal charges and must respond to the court process. This may include a preliminary hearing, an arraignment and later court appearances. You may also face separate action by PennDOT that affects your driving privileges.

Acting early can help protect your options. Court deadlines matter, and evidence such as police reports, traffic stop records and chemical test results may help your defense. I can review these details and explain what steps you should take.

Understanding First-Time DUI Penalties In Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania uses three main alcohol-related DUI categories based on BAC. However, certain circumstances can lead to higher penalties even when the BAC falls below a category’s usual range.

  • General impairment: BAC of 0.08% to below 0.10%. A first offense carries up to six months of probation, a $300 fine and mandatory Alcohol Highway Safety School. There is no mandatory jail time or license suspension for a qualifying first offense.
  • High BAC: BAC of 0.10% to below 0.16%. A first offense carries at least 48 hours in jail, fines of $500 to $5,000 and a 12-month license suspension.
  • Highest BAC: BAC of 0.16% or higher. A first offense carries at least 72 hours in jail, fines of $1,000 to $5,000 and a 12-month license suspension.

Drug-related DUI charges and chemical test refusals can also fall under the highest penalty category. Other factors, including certain crashes and underage driving, may affect the charges and penalties.

Can First-Time DUI Offenders Qualify For Pennsylvania’s ARD Program?

Pennsylvania’s Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program may offer eligible first-time DUI defendants an alternative to traditional prosecution. If accepted, you must follow court-ordered conditions, which may include supervision, a Court Reporting Network interview, a drug and alcohol assessment and Highway Safety School.

Blair County has its own ARD review process. The District Attorney has discretion to accept or deny applications. Under Pennsylvania law, you are disqualified from ARD if you:

  • Had a DUI conviction or ARD placement within the past 10 years
  • Were involved in an accident in which someone suffered serious bodily injury or died
  • Had a passenger under the age of 14 in the vehicle

Successful completion of ARD allows you to seek dismissal of the charges and expungement of public criminal arrest records. However, the Commonwealth retains a nonpublic record of your ARD disposition for future lookback purposes. ARD can also involve a license suspension, depending on the circumstances.

How I Can Help You Navigate A First DUI Charge

I have handled DUI cases in Altoona since 1994. My local roots and experience in Blair County help me understand the concerns people face after a first arrest. My approach is direct and personal. I will review your traffic stop, examine police reports and testing procedures, discuss possible defenses and explain the options available in your case.

If you are facing your first DUI charge in Altoona, contact 814-425-5415 or fill out the online form to discuss your situation and learn how I can help protect your rights and your future.