When you’re charged with a crime in McCandless Township, PA, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Whether you’re annoyed by what seems like a minor offense or intimidated by serious charges that could lead to jail, the emotional stress can lead to poor decisions. You may be tempted to follow bad advice, go it alone, or rely on an overworked public defender.
Instead, you should contact an experienced McCandless Township criminal defense attorney. At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, Criminal Defense Attorneys, we understand how stressful this time is. That’s why we work quickly and effectively to help you move forward. With decades of combined experience, our attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and minimizing the consequences you face.
Get Immediate Help with Your Criminal Charges
If you facing criminal charges and unsure of your next step, don’t wait. Call Worgul, Sarna & Ness, Criminal Defense Attorneys at (412) 281-2146 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with a trusted criminal defense lawyer in McCandless Township. We handle both misdemeanor and felony cases and will guide you toward the best possible defense strategy under Pennsylvania law.
DUI Charges in Allegheny County
If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence in McCandless Township, it’s essential to understand Pennsylvania’s DUI laws. A DUI charge can stem from driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or from driving while impaired by prescription drugs or controlled substances (DUID). Navigating these charges requires skilled legal support from dedicated McCandless Township Criminal Defense Attorneys.
Your penalties will vary depending on your BAC level and whether it’s your first offense. Pennsylvania uses a three-tier DUI system:
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Tier 1 (BAC .08–.099%): Up to 6 months probation, $300 fine, and alcohol education.
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Tier 2 (BAC .10–.159%): More severe penalties, including potential jail time.
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Tier 3 (BAC .16% and above): One-year license suspension, up to a $5,000 fine, mandatory treatment.
First-Time DUI & the ARD Program
When you are facing a DUI and you have never been in court for this or other offenses before, you be able to go through Pennsylvania’s Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition Program. This pre-trial diversion program allows you to avoid a criminal record if completed successfully.
During ARD, you may need to:
- Attend and complete alcohol highway safety school
- Submit to alcohol or drug screening
- Perform community service
- Pay restitution
- Go through a driver’s license suspension
- Pay fines
- Complete a probation period
Once completed, your DUI charge can be expunged from your record.
Allegheny County Drugged Driving (DUID)
Pennsylvania law takes driving under the influence of illegal drugs very seriously. If the police believe you are impaired due to drugs, you will be asked to take a blood or urine test. If there is evidence of drugs in your system from these tests, then you will be charged with the highest third tier, even for your first DUID offense.
If you are convicted of a DUID for the first time, you face:
- Up to six months in jail, with a minimum of three days in jail
- Up to a $5,000 fine, with a minimum of a $1,000 fine
- A one-year license suspension
- Alcohol highway safety school
- A court-ordered treatment program
Criminal Traffic Violations in Allegheny County
It is difficult to avoid getting some type of traffic ticket during your driving career. However, some traffic offenses are much more serious than others and can lead to harsh penalties. Criminal traffic violations that we have experience defending against include:
- Reckless driving
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Eluding or fleeing from the police
- Driving with a suspended license
- Driving without a valid license
- Drag racing
- Aggravated assault with a vehicle
- Homicide by vehicle
Unlike basic speeding tickets, these offenses may result in hefty fines, jail time, long-term license suspensions, and a permanent criminal record. Our criminal traffic defense lawyers in McCandless Township are ready to fight for your rights and help you avoid the harshest consequences.
Speak with Our McCandless Township Criminal Defense Attorneys Today
If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime in McCandless Township, Pennsylvania, you need knowledgeable legal guidance. Whether you’re facing a first-time DUI, a serious felony, or a criminal traffic offense, Worgul, Sarna & Ness, Criminal Defense Attorneys are here to help.
We’ll review the details of your case, investigate thoroughly, and build the strongest defense possible to protect your future.
Contact Worgul, Sarna & Ness, Criminal Defense Attorneys, LLC at (412) 281-2146 or use our online form to schedule an initial consultation.
