Legal Question in DUI Law in Pennsylvania

ard/do i need a lawyer

Got DUI last night and spent the night in lock-up. I refused the blood test and was to woozy for them too properly take a SFST. I am deathly afraid of needles. Posted 1,000 cash to get out. Officer said since 1st offfence i could use ARD. Charged w/DUI,careless driving,

and Disorderly conduct. Do i need a lawyer?$$?will ARD help?


Asked on 12/11/04, 5:18 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Mark Johns Mark Johns, Esquire

Re: ard/do i need a lawyer

Many jurisdictions do not allow defendants into ARD without a lawyer. To participate you must waive your speedy trial rights and therefore the Court likes to have a lawyer on record as having explained the rights you waived. ARD will definitely help as by refusing the test you can be convictedof having the highest blood alcohol rate which carries the most serious penalties. With ARD you can avoid jail time and after successful completeion you are entitled to have your record expunged. Different lawyers charge different amounts. I offer fixed fee pricing and accept major credit cards and offer payment arrangements. I also offer free consultations.

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Answered on 12/11/04, 6:42 pm
Marc V. Taiani AAAL - Allegheny Attorneys At Law

Re: ard/do i need a lawyer

Yes you need an Attorney, and your attorney can explain your specific questions, but yes ARD should be available, however, this depends on whether the DA's office will offer it! Please visit my website at www.AlleghenyAttorneys.com for more information on this subject.

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Answered on 12/15/04, 1:58 pm
Charles A. Pascal, Jr. Law Office of Charles A. Pascal, Jr.

Re: ard/do i need a lawyer

I agree with all that Atty. Johns said, but I wanted to add something. You indicated that you refused the blood test. If you refuse, you could be subject to a 1-year mandatory suspension of your drivers license. In other words, while the ARD usually entails a 60-day suspension, you could also get a suspension for one year for refusal.

Depending on the situation, you may be able to contest that one year suspension.

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Answered on 12/12/04, 2:42 pm


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