State College DUI Lawyer
Arrested for DUI in Pennsylvania? Here’s What to Expect and How to Protect Your Rights
Being charged with a DUI in Pennsylvania can be frightening and confusing. Many drivers don’t understand the process, their rights, or the potential penalties. At JD Law, we’ve helped countless clients in State College and throughout Central Pennsylvania navigate DUI charges with proven legal strategies and compassionate support.
What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Pennsylvania?
A typical PA DUI case starts with a traffic stop for a reason like speeding, swerving, or another violation. The police officer may:
Ask the driver to step out of the vehicle
Conduct field sobriety tests
Make an arrest based on observed impairment
Require chemical testing (usually breath or blood)
Blood Test DUI Timeline in Pennsylvania
When a blood test is used, results often take 2 to 3 weeks to come back. Only after receiving those results will the officer file formal DUI charges with the court. In most cases, the person is released without seeing a judge or receiving any paperwork at the time of arrest.
🚨 Important: This delay doesn’t mean that you are not going to be charged. You are likely to receive a criminal complaint and court summons once the results are in.
Common Questions After a DUI Arrest
People charged with DUI often ask:
Did the officer have probable cause to arrest me?
Why wasn’t I read my Miranda rights?
Will the police show up at my home or work?
Am I going to jail?
Can I apply for a limited or hardship license?
📘 Visit our PA DUI FAQ Page for clear answers to these and other frequently asked questions.
Pennsylvania DUI Penalties: What You’re Facing
A conviction for Driving Under the Influence in Pennsylvania carries mandatory minimum penalties, including:
Fines
License suspension
Jail time (even for first-time offenders)
Collateral Consequences of a DUI Conviction
A DUI conviction can impact more than your driving record:
Background checks: Can affect employment opportunities
Professional licenses: Nurses, doctors, lawyers, engineers, and others may face disciplinary action
Gun rights: A DUI conviction may result in a lifetime ban on firearm possession
These consequences make it critical to consult an experienced DUI attorney in Pennsylvania right away.
First-Time Offenders and ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition)
If this is your first DUI offense, you may qualify for the ARD program, a type of diversionary program in Pennsylvania.
What is ARD?
You plead not guilty but agree to complete court-ordered requirements
Upon successful completion, your charges are dismissed and eligible for expungement
Common ARD Requirements:
Supervision by the county probation office
Payment of fees and court costs
DUI classes, alcohol or drug treatment
Community service
Approval for ARD is decided by the District Attorney, and requirements may vary by county and case.
Why Choose JD Law for DUI Defense in State College, PA?
Since 2004, JD Law has helped clients throughout Central Pennsylvania fight DUI charges with experienced, strategic, and personalized legal representation.
What We Can Do:
Review your case for probable cause or constitutional violations
File motions to suppress evidence
Negotiate for reduced charges or penalties
Help you apply for ARD or other favorable outcomes
📞 Call (814) 689-9139 and leave a message or email us for a free DUI case review. Email is preferred.
Client Testimonial
“Jason Dunkle was a beacon of hope to me at a time when my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed unlikely and impossible. Not only was he able to defend me from an unjust accusation, his calm and empathetic demeanor, as well as quick replies to my worried questions and thoughts offered emotional support and peace of mind to me. Unlike many attorneys, he genuinely cares about his client and their life after being involved with the police, not just his fee. I am eternally grateful for Jason’s service and I recommend him without reservation.”