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Driving while ability impaired (DWAI) — known elsewhere as driving under the influence (DUI) — is a serious charge that you need to take seriously. Having an experienced lawyer represent you can reduce the consequences of a drunk-driving charge.
Approximately 40% of all criminal charges in Bucks County are for DWAI/DUI, and the same percentage of my practice as an attorney is devoted to these cases. My clients are regular people who find themselves in trouble and need help. I have been practicing as a criminal defense lawyer for more than 35 years. Contact me for a free consultation if you have been charged with drunk driving.
A DWAI/DUI charge carries a risk of jail time in addition to fines and restriction of your driving privileges. Even if you are convicted, however, there are options. Most first-time offenders are eligible for Pennsylvania's Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program. With ARD, if you go a year without getting into any more legal trouble, the DWAI/DUI charges will be dropped and taken off your record. For people under 18, a consent decree from juvenile court can have the same effect.
In addition to criminal charges, people arrested for DWAI/DUI face automatic suspension of their driver's licenses. If your license has been suspended, I may be able to help you get an occupational limited license so you can drive to work or school.
If you are under 21 and charged with DWAI/DUI, you may face an additional charge against you for underage drinking. I can help you defend yourself against both of these charges.
A DWAI/DUI charge is very serious, but with experienced legal representation you can minimize the consequences and protect your rights. Contact me today to schedule a free initial consultation.
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The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for individual advice regarding your own situation.
Copyright © 2009 by John J. Kerrigan, Jr. Attorney at Law. All rights reserved. You may reproduce materials available at this site for your own personal use and for non-commercial distribution. All copies must include this copyright statement.