Montgomery County Multiple DUI Offense Lawyers

Facing a second, third, or subsequent DUI charge in Montgomery County creates a far more serious legal situation than a first offense. Pennsylvania’s tiered punishment system escalates penalties dramatically for repeat offenders, potentially resulting in mandatory jail time, substantial fines, extended license suspensions, and long-term consequences that can affect your career, reputation, and future opportunities.

At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., our criminal defense attorneys bring over 65 years of experience defending multiple DUI cases throughout Montgomery County. We understand the heightened stakes involved with repeat offenses and provide strategic, aggressive representation aimed at protecting your freedom and minimizing the impact on your life.

Pennsylvania’s Enhanced Penalties for Multiple DUI Offenses

Pennsylvania law establishes a complex system of penalties based on both the number of prior offenses and your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of arrest. For second, third, and subsequent DUI offenses, the consequences become increasingly severe:

Second DUI Offense

• BAC .08% to .099% (General Impairment): 5 days to 6 months in jail, $300-$2,500 fine, 12-month license suspension
• BAC .10% to .159% (High BAC): 30 days to 6 months in jail, $750-$5,000 fine, 12-month license suspension
• BAC .16% or higher (Highest BAC): 90 days to 5 years in jail, $1,500-$10,000 fine, 18-month license suspension

Third or Subsequent DUI Offense

• BAC .08% to .099%: 10 days to 2 years in jail, $500-$5,000 fine, 12-month license suspension
• BAC .10% to .159%: 90 days to 5 years in jail, $1,500-$10,000 fine, 18-month license suspension
• BAC .16% or higher: 1 to 5 years in jail, $2,500-$10,000 fine, 18-month license suspension

Additionally, repeat offenders face mandatory installation of ignition interlock devices, alcohol assessment and treatment requirements, and potential vehicle forfeiture in extreme cases.

The 10-Year Look-Back Period

Pennsylvania uses a 10-year “look-back” period when determining whether a current DUI counts as a repeat offense. However, this rule has exceptions that can make cases more complex. In some circumstances, DUIs older than 10 years may still count as prior offenses, particularly for determining the length of license suspensions and treatment requirements.

Our attorneys carefully analyze your driving history and prior record to identify potential defenses related to the look-back period and to develop the most effective strategy for your specific situation.

Defending Against Multiple DUI Charges

With repeat DUI charges, the prosecution typically brings a more aggressive approach, knowing the enhanced penalties at stake. Our Montgomery County DUI defense attorneys employ multiple strategies to challenge these serious allegations:

Challenging Traffic Stops and Field Sobriety Tests

We scrutinize whether police had legal justification to stop your vehicle and whether field sobriety tests were properly administered according to standardized protocols. Improper procedures may provide grounds to suppress evidence or question the validity of the arrest.

Contesting BAC Testing

Blood and breath test results can be challenged on numerous grounds, including:

• Improper calibration or maintenance of testing equipment
• Chain of custody issues with blood samples
• Failure to observe mandatory waiting periods before testing
• Medical conditions that may affect test accuracy
• Improper administration of tests by law enforcement personnel

Examining Prior Convictions

For multiple offense cases, we carefully examine whether prior convictions meet the legal requirements to be counted against you. Technical defects in previous cases might prevent them from being used to enhance your current penalties.

Alternative Sentencing Options

Montgomery County offers alternative programs for some multiple DUI offenders, including:

• Treatment Court programs for eligible defendants with substance abuse issues
• House arrest with electronic monitoring in lieu of jail time
• Intermediate punishment programs combining treatment and supervision

Our attorneys have extensive experience with these programs and can advocate for your acceptance when appropriate for your situation.

The Importance of Experienced Defense for Multiple DUI Charges

When facing repeat DUI charges in Montgomery County, the stakes are simply too high to proceed without knowledgeable legal representation. Our attorneys bring several advantages to your defense:

• Familiarity with Montgomery County courts, prosecutors, and judges
• Deep understanding of Pennsylvania’s complex DUI laws
• Relationships with expert witnesses who can testify on technical aspects of your case
• Experience negotiating favorable plea agreements for repeat offenders
• Trial skills to present a compelling defense if your case goes to court

We work proactively from the moment you retain our services, often conducting our own investigation while evidence is still fresh and witnesses’ memories are clear.

Addressing Collateral Consequences

Beyond the immediate legal penalties, repeat DUI convictions can have far-reaching effects on your life, including:

• Employment difficulties, especially for positions requiring driving
• Professional license issues for healthcare workers, teachers, and other regulated professions
• Insurance rate increases or policy cancellations
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens
• Housing application challenges

Our defense strategy considers these collateral consequences, seeking resolutions that minimize long-term impact on your career and personal life.

Montgomery County DUI Court Process

The court process for multiple DUI offenses in Montgomery County typically follows these steps:

1. Preliminary Arraignment: Where you learn the charges against you and bail conditions are set
2. Preliminary Hearing: Where the prosecution must show sufficient evidence to proceed
3. Formal Arraignment: Where you learn the formal charges 
4. Pretrial Conferences: Where potential plea agreements are discussed
5. Suppression Hearings: Where challenges to evidence may be presented
6. Trial: Either before a judge or jury
7. Sentencing: If convicted, when penalties are imposed

Our attorneys guide you through each phase, explaining your options and the potential consequences of different approaches.

Contact Our Montgomery County Multiple DUI Defense Lawyers

If you are facing a second, third, or subsequent DUI charge in Montgomery County, time is of the essence in building your defense. The attorneys at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. provide the experience, knowledge, and dedication needed to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome in your case.

We serve clients throughout Montgomery County, including Norristown, Lansdale, Pottstown, King of Prussia, and surrounding communities. To discuss your case with one of our experienced DUI defense attorneys, call (215) 822-7575 or complete our online contact form to schedule a consultation. We are committed to helping you navigate this difficult situation and working toward a resolution that allows you to move forward with your life.