Best DUI Lawyers in Scranton

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Scranton, Pennsylvania?

  Individuals can reach the Scranton Police Department at (570) 348-4130 for non-emergency matters.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Scranton, Pennsylvania?

  To obtain a copy of a police report in Scranton, you must fill out a request form available on the police department's website at https://scrantonpa.gov/your-government/police-department/. You can also visit the Scranton Police Department at 100 S Washington Ave., Scranton, PA, 18503, and complete and submit the request form in person.

• What should you do following a DUI arrest in Scranton?

  After being arrested for a DUI in Scranton, you should exercise your right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment, recall any violations of your rights during the arrest, and promptly seek legal advice from a DUI defense lawyer. Additionally, keep in mind that you can decline to answer any inquiries until you've had the opportunity to consult with your attorney.

• What are the consequences for DUI with injury in Scranton?

  If your DUI in Scranton resulted in serious injuries, you could face charges of aggravated DUI assault - a second-degree felony - which can result in a maximum fine of $20,000 and a prison term of up to 10 years. In the case of a DUI causing someone's death, you would be charged with vehicular homicide, a second-degree felony. This charge carries a mandatory three-year prison sentence. You may also be subject to a $25,000 fine.

• What are the potential defense strategies for a DUI charge in Scranton?

  These are the various defense strategies available for individuals facing DUI charges in Scranton:

  • Questioning the driving aspect of the charge by investigating if you were indeed driving at the time and if the officer saw you doing so.
  • Challenging the arrest by investigating if there was probable cause and if the Miranda rights were read.
  • Challenging the officer's testimony by presenting alternative explanations and witnesses.
  • Challenging the accuracy of the Field Sobriety Tests.
  • Questioning the breath or blood test results if proper protocol was not followed during testing.

• What program can you join to stay out of jail after your first DUI in Scranton?

  In Scranton, there is an Accelerated Rehabilitation Disposition program for first-time offenders, and successfully completing the ARD program may result in the dismissal of your case. However, only individuals who meet certain conditions are eligible for the program, such as having no prior convictions, having no involvement in accidents resulting in serious injuries or death, possessing a valid license and insurance, and not having minors in the vehicle at the time of the arrest. Additionally, the program is not available to repeat offenders.

• How do you get your DUI record expunged in Scranton?

  In order to expunge your DUI record in Scranton, you need to fulfill certain requirements such as filling out a criminal history form, providing proof of completion of the ARD program, requesting a petition for expungement from the clerk of courts, and submitting a notarized affidavit. Once the necessary paperwork is filed, the district attorney has a month to object; if there's no objection, the process is done. Compared to other states, removing a DUI from a criminal record in Pennsylvania is more challenging if the individual didn't participate in the ARD program.