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while visiting pa got a dui and i live in ohio what happens
I live in Ohio and visiting Pennsylvania recently, I ran across the worst situation imaginable I was pulled over and got a DUI. Immediately, I was worried about the consequences I would face. After being hauled down to the police station, I wondered if my Ohio license and insurance would shield me from the charges I was facing. I had to consider the worst What happens if I got a DUI in another state?
There is no simple answer, as it depends upon the laws of the two states. But what is more certain is that the consequences could be severe. Many states share information on offenders, much like a club. With this framework, if I get caught in one, the other knows, and vice versa. Furthermore, I could be tried in the state where I was arrested and convicted, even if I lived in another one. My best bet would be to consult a lawyer who handles DUI cases, as this can be a complicated matter.
There is, however, an escape from this possible disaster. Pennsylvania, along with some other states, have instituted a program called ARD (accelerated rehabilitative disposition). If I was accepted into this program, I would be able to complete probation and one-time fee to finish out this situation. This would facilitate dismissal of the charges and potential resolution with my Ohio license, Therefore, it might just be possible to get off the hook without having to worry about its consequences.
On the other hand, if I didnt have the luck of getting accepted into the ARD program, I would be facing the probability of becoming a convicted felon. This would lead to moral judgement, result in higher insurance cost in the future and trouble in applying for many job positions. Basically, I would be facing a downward spiral without any chance of reprieve.
To answer the question, while visiting Pennsylvania and getting a DUI, there is no straightforward answer. The best guess would be to consult a lawyer who specializes in DUI cases and seek their counsel for the most appropriate and quickest resolution. It might be possible to make use of some programs like the ARD, but ultimately the decision could still lead to some serious consequences. That is why it is best to weigh out all of the factors before making a move.
Additionally, while Pennsylvania is not part of the Interstate Drivers License Compact, Ohio is. This means that the state of Ohio will receive information regarding DUI convictions. The law in Ohio for DUI cannot be overlooked as well. In Ohio, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can carry some of the most severe penalties in the US. Depending on the Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level at the time of arrest, potential punishments range from a mandatory minimum of 3 days to a maximum of 6 months in prison, among other possible consequences in the future. Be aware that many states actually have harsh policies for DUI and substance abuse convictions.
Furthermore, upon conviction for DUI in Pennsylvania, and potentially in Ohio, the fines and costs escalate quickly. For example, the cost in Pennsylvania can reach up to five thousand dollars. And even if I do manage to bring down the cost by reducing or eliminating the requirement to enroll in alcohol schooling, court appearances and other expenses, the ultimate cost could still be detrimental.
Overall, there is no doubt that getting a DUI while visiting another state can be a nerve-wracking experience. Not only do I have to face the high fines and court fees, I must also bear the consequences of a DUI on my Ohio license. This could range from suspending my license, to revoking my license from the state of Ohio altogether. Thus, it is important to get the best possible legal counsel to guide me through the process for a resolution.
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