Felony DUI Lawyer in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

While a DUI is generally considered a misdemeanor, it can be upgraded to a felony under certain conditions. A felony DUI conviction can result in years behind bars and have a lasting impact on your life.  

Since there’s a lot at stake when facing felony DUI charges, you can’t handle the situation on your own. As a Pittsburgh felony DUI attorney at Natalie Snyder Law, I understand the weight of the charges you’re facing and the uncertainty that lies ahead. With over 20 years of experience in the field of DUI defense, I have the resources, skill, and dedication to fight for you and do my best to bring your case to a positive end.  

Misdemeanor vs Felony DUI Charges in Pennsylvania 

A misdemeanor DUI in Pennsylvania typically occurs when a driver has a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% to 0.10%, or when there are no aggravating factors involved in the case.  

Felony DUIs carry much harsher repercussions. A felony DUI charge usually arises in cases where specific aggravating factors are present.

These can include having multiple prior DUI convictions within a certain timeframe or causing serious injury or death to another person while driving under the influence. Previously, Pennsylvania recognized only one felony DUI charge—a felony of the third degree.  

In 2022, Pennsylvania enacted Deana's Law, a legislative change aimed at addressing repeat DUI offenders and enhancing the penalties associated with DUI crimes. This law introduced the concept of a second-degree felony for certain DUI offenses.

Under this law, individuals with multiple DUI convictions can face charges that escalate from a misdemeanor to a felony based on their prior history.

Felony of the Second Degree / Felony of the Third Degree for DUI 

After the enactment of Deana's Law, Pennsylvania recognizes two categories of felony DUI charges:  

1. Felony of the second degree (the most serious); and  

2. Felony of the third degree (the least serious).  

But when do these charges apply? Under PA Vehicle Code §3803, individuals with three or more DUI convictions on their record can face felony of the second degree charges under the following circumstances:   

• They refuse breath or chemical testing when there is a valid search warrant;  

• They face charges for DUI Highest Rate of Alcohol; or  

• They face DUI charges related to controlled substances.  

Individuals can face felony of the third degree charges when they are arrested for DUI and either (a) have at least three DUI convictions on their record or (b) have a conviction for homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence.

These charges also apply when an individual has two DUI convictions on their record and:  

• Refuse breath or chemical testing when there is a valid search warrant;  

• Face charges for DUI Highest Rate of Alcohol;  

• Face DUI charges related to controlled substances; or 

• Face DUI charges and had a minor under the age of 18 in the vehicle at the time of the offense.  

Regardless of whether you’re charged with a felony of the second degree or felony of the third degree, you should take your situation very seriously. If you do nothing, you could face long-lasting repercussions on your freedom and future opportunities.

Contact a Pittsburgh felony DUI attorney to discuss your situation and devise a proactive plan.  

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Felony DUI Conviction 

If convicted of a felony DUI in Pennsylvania, the penalties can be severe. You might face up to 10 years in prison and hefty fines ranging from $2,500 to $25,000. This is not to mention a driver’s license suspension, court-ordered alcohol treatment, and mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID).  

Beyond the immediate legal consequences, the collateral impacts of a felony DUI conviction can be life-altering. A felony record can hinder your employment opportunities, affect your ability to obtain housing or loans, and even influence your parental rights.

At Natalie Snyder Law, I understand what’s at stake when facing a felony DUI charge. That’s why I strive to help clients avoid a conviction or, at the very least, minimize the negative consequences that accompany their conviction.  

Possible Defenses to Felony DUI Charges 

There are various defenses that may be available when facing felony DUI charges. Here are some possible strategies to consider: 

• Improper stop: If the police did not have probable cause to stop you, any evidence collected during that stop may be inadmissible. 

• Faulty testing equipment: Breathalyzer devices must be properly maintained and calibrated. If not, the results can be challenged. 

• Rising blood alcohol content: If you consumed alcohol after driving but before testing, this defense could be applicable. 

• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions can affect breathalyzer results, providing a potential defense. 

• Lack of evidence: If there isn't enough evidence of impairment or intoxication, your charges might be reduced or dismissed. 

• Duress: If you were forced to drive under the influence against your will, this could serve as a defense. 

• Insufficient observations: If officers did not observe your driving behavior closely, it may undermine their case. 

Each case is unique, which is why you might want to discuss your circumstances with a Pennsylvania felony DUI lawyer. By thoroughly exploring all the potential defenses available to you, you can build a more robust strategy to fight back against the allegations you’re facing. 

Why Choose Natalie Snyder Law? 

Choosing the right legal representation is crucial when facing felony DUI charges. With over 20 years of experience in the legal field here at Natalie Snyder Law, I bring a wealth of knowledge to the table. As a former prosecutor, I understand both sides of the legal equation, which allows me to anticipate challenges and craft effective strategies for my clients. 

I take a compassionate approach to each criminal defense case I handle. I believe that clients are not just cases; they are individuals with unique stories and needs. Our female-led law firm values empathy and respect, treating each client with the dignity they deserve. 

I am a fierce advocate in the courtroom, and I pride myself on being responsive and accessible to my clients. From our first meeting to the conclusion of your case, my goal is to empower you and ensure you feel supported at every step.