3rd offense DUI in Pennsylvania

When an offender is on their 3^rd offense DUI in Pennsylvania, they will be subject to what the State refers to as Tiers. Pennsylvania has three, each one representing a different level of blood alcohol content that was detected during the DUI stop. There are many administrative penalties that go alongside these Tiers, ones that include steps the offender has to take if they want to get their driver’s license back. Once it gets taken for DUI charges, it is really difficult to get back in good standing. But, it is possible, as long as the person takes the necessary positive steps required.

Many people think that a Pennsylvania DUI on the 3^rd offense would be a felony. Their logic behind this is the fact that the offender keeps getting caught dangerously driving drunk, therefore repeatedly endangering the lives of thousands each time they stroll the highways. Although the possibility of death occurring is apparent (and many times does unfortunately happen to innocent people because of drunk drivers), even after a third time this crime is still considered a misdemeanor. The level of the misdemeanor would depend on the level of Tier in their situation.

For example, if a person’s BAC is lower than .10%, then it is under Tier One, which is a misdemeanor in the second degree. At this level, the offender could face anywhere from a week and a half to two years in jail. Their fine could go up to at least $5,000, but their criminal defense lawyer may help them get it lowered closer to $500, which is the minimum. Tier Two is a misdemeanor in the first-degree, and applies to a BAC of between .10% and .16%. Sentencing for this Tier is anywhere between three months and sixty months, and the fines are as high as $10,000 in some cases.

Tier Three also has high fines for convicted offenders. The maximum of $10,000 is the same, but the minimum jumps from $1,500 to $2,500. The maximum time a person can serve is also the same as Tier Two (five years), but again, the minimum time jumps from ninety days to a year. In order to have their case seen in the best way possible, leaning as much in their favor as it can after a 3^rd offense DUI in Pennsylvania, it is always better for this repeat offender to utilize the counsel of a knowledgeable and aggressive criminal defense attorney.